Peris Lodge, Caernarfon

Peris Lodge is a self-contained lodge on the edge of Caernarfon, and the layout is a large part of what makes it work for dogs. You get the whole place to yourselves - no shared corridors, no reception to walk a nervous dog through, and a private deck with a hot tub screened by trees. Guests travelling with dogs describe it as quiet enough to forget the town is there, which is unusual given how close it actually is.

The property is listed as pet friendly and takes one dog per booking, but no detail on fees or deposits is published with the listing, so confirm those with the owner before booking. What dog owners do report consistently is that the lodge suits dogs simply because it is a private house rather than a room in a busy building - there is nowhere to disturb anyone, and the enclosed feel of the plot means most of the outdoor space is usable.

Caernarfon town centre is a walk of under ten minutes, which makes evening strolls and pub trips easy, though the return leg is a steep climb and less appealing if anyone in the party is less mobile. The wider position is the real draw for active dogs: this is the doorstep of Eryri, with Llanberis and the Snowdon paths a short drive away, and the castle waterfront and Menai shoreline closer to hand.

Two caveats are worth knowing. The decking has no gate, so the outdoor space is not secure for a dog that will not stay put - bring a long line if yours is a bolter. And while most guests find the lodge very clean, dog hair has been reported on the pull-out sofa bed, which is worth a check on arrival at any property that takes pets. Reports of the hot tub not being up to temperature on the first day also crop up more than once.

With a 4.5/5 paw rating, Peris Lodge suits dog owners who want a private base for walking in Eryri with a town within strolling distance, and who are happy to supervise an open deck.