The Dene, Betws-y-Coed

The Dene is a bungalow a short stroll from the middle of Betws-y-Coed, which makes it one of the easier bases in Eryri for a dog that would rather walk than sit in a car. The village has pubs and cafes within a few minutes on foot, the Gwydir Forest trails start on the edge of it, and the Conwy valley opens north for longer days.

One well-behaved dog is welcome. Being single-storey helps more than it sounds: there are no stairs to manage with an older or arthritic dog, and the whole property is yours, so there is nothing to share. No pet charge is published for the property, so it is worth settling the cost with the owner when you book.

The garden is the detail to get right beforehand. There is one, and guests with dogs are happy with the space it gives them, but it has no secure or enclosed section. That is fine for a dog that stays close and a problem for one that does not, so anyone counting on a fenced garden to let a dog out unsupervised should plan on a long line instead.

Inside, the standard is high for the price. The bungalow is equipped down to the small things - washing machine, tumble dryer, iron and ironing board, washing powder, basic toiletries - which is the sort of detail that matters after a wet week of forest paths. Recent work on the bedroom furniture, windows and blinds has been noticed and approved of. Guests are met on arrival by the owners, which is a quicker way to sort out where to walk than any welcome folder.

The shower is on the small side, though the water pressure is good, and there is no bath - worth knowing if bathing the dog indoors was part of the plan.

Best suited to a couple or small family with one dog who want village pavements, forest paths and a level, easy property to come back to.