Carreg Cottage
5 Llugwy Terrace Capel Curig Conwy LL24 0EP
www.carreg-cottage-snowdonia.co.uk
1 2 September, 2021 2 Croeso I Carreg Bwthyn! Welcome to Carreg Cottage!
We wish you a warm welcome to our cottage in the heart of Snowdonia. We hope that you enjoy the cottage and the beautiful surrounding area of Snowdonia.
This folder provides you with lots of information about the cottage, local services, and things to do. We hope you find it useful. You will also find information on things to do on our website www.carreg-cottage-snowdonia.co.uk
If you have any problems during your stay, please check in the folder as you may find the answer, otherwise please get in touch.
We would welcome any feedback on the cottage and the folder. Please feel free to include this in your comments in the visitors’ book.
Enjoy your stay!
Mwynhau eich arhosiad!
Bev & Nige
3 4 Table of Contents 1 WiFi Codes...... 7 2 Emergency Numbers and Addresses...... 9 3 Other Useful Contacts...... 11 4 Heating and Hot Water...... 13 4.1 Central heating and hot water...... 13 4.2 Radiators...... 14 4.3 LPG Gas Cylinders...... 14 4.4 Wood burning stove...... 15 4.5 Water stop tap...... 15 5 Instructions for appliances...... 17 5.1 TV...... 17 5.2 DVD...... 21 5.3 Stereo...... 21 5.4 Internet radio (Freecom MusicPal)...... 21 5.5 Oven...... 22 5.6 Hob...... 23 5.7 Dishwasher...... 23 5.8 Microwave...... 23 5.9 Washing Machine...... 24 5.10 Freezer...... 25 6 Safety Alarms...... 27 6.1 Heat and Optical Smoke Alarms...... 27 6.2 Carbon Monoxide Alarm...... 27 7 Other comfort and safety features...... 29 7.1 Shower...... 29 7.2 Extractors...... 29 7.3 Blind cords...... 29 7.4 Young children...... 29 7.5 Pets...... 29 7.6 No smoking...... 30 8 Recycling...... 31 9 Outside Space...... 33 9.1 Parking...... 33 9.2 Garden...... 33 9.3 Pets...... 33 9.4 No smoking...... 33 9.5 Washing line...... 33 10 Local attractions...... 35 10.1 Pubs and Cafés...... 35 10.2 Shops...... 35 10.3 Walks...... 35 10.4 Cycling...... 36 10.5 For thrill seekers...... 36 10.6 Beaches...... 37 10.7 Other things to do...... 37 10.8 Public transport...... 38 11 Welsh Words and Phrases...... 39 11.1 Some useful Welsh phrases...... 39 11.2 Some geographical Welsh words...... 40
5 12 Books & Games...... 43 13 Before you leave…...... 45 13.1 Check out time...... 45 13.2 Keys...... 45 13.3 Guest Book...... 45 13.4 Cleaning...... 45 13.5 Towels...... 45 13.6 Carreg Cottage property...... 45 13.7 Fridge and Freezer...... 46 13.8 Dishwasher...... 46 14 Safety Considerations...... 48 14.1 Fire Risk Assessment...... 48 14.2 Electrics...... 48 14.3 Gas...... 48 14.4 Legionnaire’s Disease...... 48 14.5 Chimney Sweeping...... 48 15 Cottage Funnies...... 50 15.1 Power cuts...... 50 15.2 Broadband...... 50 15.3 Water on window sills...... 50 16 Cottage Inventory...... 52 17 User Manual URLs:...... 54
6 1 WiFi Codes WiFi is available on network: carreg-guest or carreg-guest5g
Password: H4ppyH0lidays (the 0 is a zero)
7 8 2 Emergency Numbers and Addresses Public Phone Box. Nearest public phone box is located near the public car park and toilets near the cottage. From the cottage, head towards the shops/junction with A5. Before the shops take the lane to the left which leads to the public car park and toilets. Phone box is located by the toilets.
In case of problems, please use the contact details in your booking confirmation email or follow up email from us at [email protected]. This will either be the property manager or us, the owners.
If you develop Covid-19 symptoms during your stay, please follow the advice on the laminated sheet available in the cottage.
Property Manager Chrissy Corner 07930 601754 Owners Bev Hull [email protected] Nigel Tuckley
Hospital with A&E Ysbyty Gwynedd Penrhos Road, Bangor Penrhosgarnedd, Bangor LL57 2PW
Tel: 01248 384384 Website: http://www.wales.nhs.uk/site splus/861/page/41562
Doctors Betws Y Coed Surgery Telephone: Tel: 01690 710205 Fax: 01690 710051 Address: Betws-y-Coed Surgery Meddygfa Ffordd Gethin Betws-y-Coed Conwy LL24 0BP
Dentist 2 located in Llanrwst Llanrwst Dental Practice Address: 24A Watling St, Llanrwst LL26 0LS Phone: 01492 641000
mydentist advance oral health centre, Llanrwst Address: 42 Heol Yr Orsaf
9 Station Rd, Llanrwst LL26 0BT Phone: 01492 640418
Police Station Nearest is in Llanrwst. Phone 999 or 112 for Emergency Services Mountain Rescue Phone 999 or 112 for Emergency Services Vets Llanrwst Wern Vets Address: 70 Heol Yr Orsaf Station Rd, Llanrwst LL26 0EH Phone: 01492 640255
Flo Gas (in case of gas leak 03457 200100 as LPG tanks)
10 3 Other Useful Contacts Please also refer to Local Attractions
Please note that the pubs and bars may not be open due to Covid-19 restrictions.
Nearest Petrol Station Shell Petrol Station, Betws y Follow A5 through Betws y Coed Coed. On right. Local Grocery Shops Spar, Betws y Coed On A5 in Betws y Coed
Londis, Betws y Coed On A5 in Betws y Coed
Coop, Llanrwst (medium size) Llanrwst
Tesco Extra, Bangor Off A55 junction 10 Local Pubs – serving food Tyn y Coed Hotel, Capel Curig Address: A5, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0EE Phone: 01690 720331
Bryn Tyrch, Capel Curig Address: Capel Curig, Conwy LL24 0EL Phone: 01690 720223
Local Bars Plas y Brenin Address: Plas Y Brenin, Capel Curig, Betws-y-Coed LL24 0ET
Phone: 01690 720214
Log supplies Spar, Betws y Coed (see above)
Londis, Betws y Coed (see above)
Wynnstay Stores, Llanrwst
11 12 4 Heating and Hot Water
4.1 Central heating and hot water The cottage is fitted with gas central heating and on demand hot water. The boiler is located in the utility room. For your convenience, the boiler has been set up to come on in the morning and in the evening and is further controlled by the room thermostat in the lounge under the stairs. Hot water is delivered on demand by running a hot water tap or the shower. The boiler is set up at the correct temperature for hot water.
The simplest way to change whether the boiler is on or off during your stay is to use the Room Thermostat control in the lounge (under the stairs). The room thermostat overrides the settings on the boiler.
ROOM THERMOSTAT CONTROL
The room thermostat is a little complicated but all being well you should only need to use the following controls.
ADVANCE to ON/OFF ESC MODE (for Summer visits)
1 HOUR BOOST
FOR AUTUMN, WINTER, SPRING VISITS:
For autumn, winter and spring visits, the room thermostat will be in AUTO mode. The heating is set up to come ON automatically for a period in the morning and in the evening. The ON temperature (T3 on the control) will be set to around 19C or 20C. This can be adjusted by pressing the up ^ or down v buttons on the room thermostat.
The OFF temperature (T2) is set to 10C. Please do not adjust this temperature – rather do one of the following:
1. ONE HOUR BOOSTER
Press the < button. The one hour booster function will be enabled. This function switches ON the heating at the ON temperature for 1 hour. If the heating is already ON, this function adds 1 hour to the current programmed time. AUTO MAN will appear on the screen when in this mode.
13 2. ADVANCE This function is good if you arrive back at the cottage early, before the heating has automatically come back on, or leave the cottage before the next scheduled OFF period. Press the > button to ADVANCE to the next ON/OFF period. So if the heating has gone off, press this button > and it will advance to the next ON period. The heating will come back on. If the heating is ON and you want to switch it OFF, press the >. AUTO MAN will appear on the screen when in this mode.
FOR SUMMER VISITS:
In the summer, the boiler may only be set for hot water i.e. AUTO heating is OFF. If this is the case, the following symbol will show on the thermostat room controller
If it is chilly and the log fire is not providing sufficient heat, the heating can be switched to AUTO using the ESC MODE button. Press the ESC MODE button until AUTO is displayed. The boiler is then set as described for Autumn, Winter, Spring visits. Please set back to SUMMER when the heating is not required.
BOILER CONTROLS The only controls on the boiler you may need to check are the 2 dials. The left dial controls whether the boiler is on or off for heating and should be set to a mid range temperature. The right dial controls the hot water temperature and should be set to a high temperature to ensure you get hot showers.
4.2 Radiators All the room radiators except the bathroom towel rail have individual valves for your comfort. If there is no heat in the bathroom towel rail then just turn the left hand valve at the bottom a notch or two. Be aware that it can get very hot.
4.3 LPG Gas Cylinders The central heating and hot water boiler runs off LPG gas which is in the orange cylinders at the rear of the cottage. These are on an auto changeover regulator so if one set of tanks runs out of gas, they will automatically switch to the reserve tanks. If you notice that the dial on top of the tanks has gone RED, it is not a problem it just means one pair of tanks have run out of gas. Please let us or the property manager know if it does show RED so we can arrange for replacement tanks asap.
If you smell any gas or suspect a leak, the gas should be turned off by turning the hand-wheel valve fully clockwise on all 4 cylinders not the black knob on the regulator. Please contact us or the property manager if there is a problem.
The gas cylinders are provided by Flo Gas. In event of emergency please call them:
Flo Gas 24hr Emergency Number: 03457 200100
14 4.4 Wood burning stove There is a wood burning stove in the cottage for your enjoyment with a wood bundle to get you going. In case you are unfamiliar with wood burning stoves, here are some basic instructions for lighting and operating it.
Safety: The stove does get too hot to touch when it is going and should only be operated with the provided heat proof glove and fire tools. Children should not operate the stove. Please supervise any young children and pets when the stove is burning.
If you smell fumes or smoke escaping, open doors and windows to ventilate the room and let the fire die. Please notify us or the property manager. The smoke alarms and/or carbon monoxide alarm fitted in the cottage are likely to go off (please see notes under “Alarms”).
Operating: The stove has 2 air inlet controls. The primary air inlet at the bottom of the stove provides under draught to the base of the fire chamber. Sliding the knob to the right will increase the air intake . Sliding the knob to the left will reduce the air intake (slow rate of burning). The secondary air inlet is at the top of the stove and controls the burn rate and keeps the door glass clear. Sliding the knob to the right increases the air intake. Sliding to the left, reduces the air intake. Note: if the knobs do not slide easily, give them a slight turn first.
Lighting: Place a fire lighter on the grate and some dry kindling wood on top. Fully open both the air inlet controls by sliding to the right. Once the kindling has caught light, almost close the stove door. After 5 minutes or so, dry logs should be loaded into the stove and the stove door fully closed. After 10 to 15 minutes, close the primary air control (bottom knob) by sliding to the left and use the secondary air control (top knob) to reduce the burn rate and keep the door glass clear.
Cleaning: If your stay is for 1 week or less, it is unlikely that you will need to empty the ash from the stove as wood burns better on a bed of ash. However, if you do need to empty the ash, please wait until the stove is cold and empty the ash into a bin liner before placing in the black dustbin provided at the back of the house.
More Logs: If you would like to get more logs for the stove, they can be purchased from various suppliers as listed in section 2 of this folder. Please use dry logs for best results.
4.5 Water stop tap In the event of a water leak, there is an internal stop tap to the left of the downstairs toilet. The external one is outside near the LPG tanks covered by a slate.
15 16 5 Instructions for appliances The following includes basic operating instructions for the appliances in Carreg Cottage. Some user manuals are also provided in this folder. If there are any problems with any of the appliances please contact us or the property manager.
5.1 TV For TV, we are making use of the excellent broadband speed we have at the property. Attached to the TV is an Android TV box which allows you to access TV via BBC iPlayer, ITV Hub, All 4 (at this time Channel 5’s app is not compatible so does not work). The Android TV box also allows you to use NetFlix, YouTube and other streaming services using your own accounts if you have them.
REMOTE CONTROLS:
The primary remote control to use is the small Android TV remote (labelled on the back). The larger TV remote should not be needed.
There is also a mini keyboard with mouse/touch pad for use with the Android TV. This is the best tool for navigating the screens.
MINI KEYBOARD FUNCTIONS:
Mouse pad / Touch pad. One finger click for left click. Two finger flick for right click. Two finger drag to scroll
Home key
Mouse Left Click
Mouse Right Click & Back Button
17 On/Off
Wake Up
Volume of TV box up:
Volume of TV box down:
SWITCHING ON:
To operate the TV, check both the TV and Android TV box are switched on at the sockets (the plugs are labelled). Then using Android TV remote (small black remote – labelled on back), switch on the Android TV box (red ON button) and the TV (white ON button). It will take a few seconds for the Android TV box to boot up.
Once booted up you should have a screen similar to the below. If not, press the HOME button either on the Android TV remote or on the small keyboard.
18 SELECTING AN APP:
To navigate the screen, use the mouse pad on the keyboard. The common UK TV apps are all located on he home screen above.
To get to all the APPS loaded on the box, left click on the Apps icon (see above). On the Apps screen click on the App you would like to use.
SELECTING A TV CHANNEL APP:
For BBC channels – click on BBC iPlayer.
For ITV channels – click on ITV Hub
For Channel 4, E4, More4, Film 4 and 4seven – click on All4
Once in the App, navigate using the mouse to view live TV and catch up TV. The Apps are the same as you may have installed on your own devices such as a smart TV or saxophone.
TO WATCH LIVE TV:
On BBC iPlayer, to get to live TV, right click the MENU button on the home screen and select the channel you would like to watch live. Click on the PLAY button on the top programme to watch that programme live.
On ITV Hub, on the home screen, click on the Live TV button at the bottom of the home screen. On the next screen, select the channel you want to watch live from the top of the screen and click PLAY.
On All4, click on the Live TV button at the bottom of the home screen. On the next screen, select the channel you want to watch from the top of the screen. Then press PLAY.
For all the TV apps, remember to scroll down to see more content and TV shows.
TO GO BACK:
To go back to a previous screen at any point, use the Right Click on the mouse. Keep right clicking until you are back to the screen you wanted.
ACCOUNTS AND PAYMENT DETAILS:
The Android Box uses a Google account for Carreg Cottage. No payment details are set up so if you wish to do In App purchases, you will need to set up your own payments at your own risk.
VOLUME:
Volume can be adjusted using the Android TV box or TV remote control. The mini keyboard volume control is for the Android TV box.
SWITCHING OFF:
Turning the TV off only, will leave the Android TV box running in the background so when you turn the TV back on, the screen will show whatever you were last watching. Where possible, please turn both the TV and the Android TV box off when you have finished viewing.
19 INSTALLING NEW APPS / CHANGING SETTINGS:
For the ease of use of our future guests and the security of your accounts, we request that you do not install new Apps to the Android TV Box. Please never RESET anything on the TV or TV box as all the APP settings may be lost.
APP UPDATES:
Occasionally, a message may pop up regarding an update for an App. It is OK to go ahead and update or you can choose to ignore. Sometimes, a message will be returned to say that the update or latest version of the App is not compatible with the device. In this case, you can continue to use the old version already installed.
TROUBLE SHOOTING:
Nothing on screen or no signal:
Please do the following checks.
1. Is the WiFi working externally? This can be checked by logging into the Wifi on your phone or computer and searching for a website.
2. Is the TV source set to EXT5? Check source is set to EXT5 (HDMI) by pressing the TV IN button on the Android TV remote control and wait a few seconds (ignore the message about pressing OK).
3. Is the Android TV box on? The Android TV Box is a square black box about 20cm x 20cm on the shelf under the TV. When ON, there will be a blue light showing on the Android TV Box.
4. Is the ethernet cable (internet cable) in the Android TV Box? There should be a purple ethernet cable running from the WiFi router to the Android TV Box.
5. Is the HDMI cable from the Android TV box inserted into EXT5 port on the TV? There is an HDMI cable between the Android TV box and the TV. The TV end must be inserted into a port labelled EXT5 at the back of the TV.
Please never RESET anything on the TV or TV box as all the APP settings may be lost and you will not be able to watch TV. The cables must be set up as per the checks above.
Mini keyboard is not responding:
1. Mini keyboard USB dongle. There should be a small USB dongle in place in the Android TV Box which allows the mini keyboard to communicate with the Android TV box to control the mouse and keys.
2. If the switch on the top edge is in the ON position, then you can wakeup the remote via the WAKEUP button (see diagram above). If the keyboard does not light up, then it may need charging which can be done using the USB charger in the utility room.
TV On/Off:
TV will not turn off using either the Android TV remote or the Sharp TV remote – use the On/Off button on the top of the TV.
20 5.2 DVD The DVD player is a standard DVD player. The source is EXT2 and can be set using the Android TV remote by pressing the TV IN button until on EXT2 and waiting a few seconds (ignore the message about pressing OK). The eject button is on the DVD player; all other functions are on the DVD remote.
5.3 Stereo The stereo will play CDs and there is an auxiliary input at the back which can be used to play from your smart phone or other device. Unfortunately, the radio requires an analogue signal which is not strong enough in this area. Press the function button until you get the CD mode to listen to a CD if it does not automatically select it.
5.4 Internet radio (Freecom MusicPal) The radio can only be turned on and off via the socket switch. Once on, it should connect to the internet. Select stations using the right dial. Control volume using the left dial. Top button takes you back when using the menu. Bottom button takes you directly to Favourites.
21 5.5 Oven The oven is a multi function over with various oven and grill settings.
For simple use, select the oven function by using the knob on the left. Set the temperature using the knob on right. + to increase and – to decrease. A “count up timer” automatically displays if no automatic timer settings are on - this is the time that the oven has been on for. The middle display on the oven will show the “count up timer” and a “heat rising/cooling” indicator.
For more advanced settings, please refer to the user manual.
22 5.6 Hob The hob is ceramic. Use the knob indicated on the hob to control the each heating zone. A red light on the hob will be lit if any of the heating zones are hot. In case of spillage, the hob should be wiped clean. Please only use Hob Brite for cleaning more stubborn spillages.
5.7 Dishwasher For best results, we suggest you use the ECO 50° programme for all your dish washing. To set this, press on/off button (1) to switch on. All the lights should show orange. Press the programme button once (4) to select the ECO programme. If you are only washing a few dishes, press the half load button(5). Load the detergent then close the door. This cycle takes about 195 minutes but is the most energy friendly for a normal load.
For a quick wash, with freshly used crockery and cutlery, you can select this programme by pressing the programme button until this LED displays. This programme takes 30 minutes.
5.8 Microwave To use the microwave on full power, select TIME and enter the time in minutes and seconds. To use on a lower power, select POWER and enter 1 to 9 and the select TIME and enter time. For Auto defrost, select Auto Defrost and the time.
The Programme functions will work but unfortunately I do not have the instructions for these.
If the power has been off, then you first need to cancel the flashing lights by pressing PAUSE/CANCEL. If you want to reset the clock, then press CLOCK, enter the time using 24 hour clock, then press CLOCK again.
23 5.9 Washing Machine Full operating instructions for a similar model washing machine are at the end of the folder.
Brief operating instructions:
1. Switch the washing machine on by pressing button . All the LEDS will light up for a few seconds and the ON_OFF/DOOR LOCK LED will begin to flash.
2. Load your laundry into the washing machine and shut the appliance door.
3. Set the PROGRAM dial to the program required (recommend 6 Delicate/Colours/Synthetics).
4. Set the wash temperature using the temperature dial.
5. Set the spin speed using the spin speed dial.
6. Add the detergent to tray 2 (right one of 3 trays) and fabric softener to tray 3 (small left tray) – see diagram below
7. Start the program by pressing the START/CANCEL button . To cancel it, keep the START/CANCEL button pressed for at least 2 seconds.
8. When the program is finished, the ON-OFF/DOOR LOCK LED will flash to indicate that the appliance door can be opened. Turn the washing off by pressing button
To stop or change a program:
1. Press the Start/Cancel button for 5 seconds.
2. Select “pump Out” on the Program selector dial.
3. When the machine has finished emptying, turn the program selector knob to the new program required. You may need to add more detergent.
4. Press the start button to start the program.
24 5.10 Freezer The freezer should be on, if not it can be turned on at the socket under the sink. The door has a habit of not closing properly unless pushed to and then it will ice up. Please leave the freezer on otherwise it will defrost and water will pool on the floor.
25 26 6 Safety Alarms
6.1 Heat and Optical Smoke Alarms Carreg Cottage is fitted with 4 heat and optical smoke alarms. They are all mains operated and are interconnected – if one goes off, they all go off. When they go off, they emit a very loud noise.
Of course if the alarms sound, then usual domestic emergency procedures should be followed (please see the Fire Risk Assessment in this folder).
However, if the alarms sound and there is an obvious cause e.g. the toast has burned, then the alarms can be “hushed” by pushing and releasing the HUSH button on the alarm cover that has been activated (this can be identified by a rapidly flashing red LED). If the smoke is not too dense, once the HUSH button has been pressed, the alarms will silence immediately and the red LED light will flash every 10 seconds for approximately 7 minutes. The alarm will sound again if the smoke or fumes are still present.
The HUSH button is located here:
6.2 Carbon Monoxide Alarm Carreg Cottage is fitted with a carbon monoxide alarm to check carbon monoxide levels. The alarm is located on the chimney breast in the lounge. If the alarm sounds, the level of carbon monoxide is too high and the windows and doors should be opened to ventilate the cottage and the cottage evacuated until the alarm stops. Please let us or the property manager know if the alarm has gone off. If the alarm repeats, then please stop using the stove.
27 There is also a Blue LED indicator on the alarm which is an early warning indicator. Again, doors and windows should be opened until this Blue LED goes off.
Please refer to the user manual for further information.
28 7 Other comfort and safety features
7.1 Shower Hot water in the cottage is heated on demand. For an optimal shower, you only need to turn the flow tap a quarter turn and have the water on high temperature on the boiler. Use of other taps whilst someone is having a shower may affect the temperature and/or flow rate
7.2 Extractors Carreg Cottage has extractor fans in the bathrooms and utility room fitted with humidistats and timers. As the cottage is old, it suffers from condensation more than a new home so the use of extractors helps to reduce the condensation. With a humidistat extractor, it will go off if the humidity is too high which will be after showers. The humidity will increase at lower temperatures.
The extractors in Carreg Cottage are quiet and we have set them up to find the right balance between good extraction and low nuisance.
It is more than likely that condensation will form on the bathroom window sill and possibly other window sills too. We would very much appreciate you drying them off with the small spare towel provided in the bathroom.
7.3 Blind cords Young children can be strangled by loops in the blind pull cords fitted in this cottage. To avoid any accidents, please keep the cords out of reach of young children using the cleats provided.
7.4 Young children We have not furnished Carreg Cottage to be child safe so please do not leave your young children unattended in the cottage or outside in the garden. We do provide a stair gate for your use – this is stored by the side of the wardrobe in the double bedroom. It can easily be set up at the top of the stairs.
We know children love to explore and play, build dens, run about etc. so furniture and other items in and out of the cottage will no doubt get moved about. Please put things back as you found them before you go.
7.5 Pets We are dog lovers so are happy to welcome them. Your dog should not be left unattended in the cottage at any time. Please keep your dog off the sofas, beds and other furniture and prevent them from scratching doors, kitchen cupboards etc. We are sure your dog will love the walks in the area but they will return with muddy feet. The rear entrance to the property is to the utility room, perfect for removing muddy boots and cleaning muddy paws.
29 We encourage you to use the stair gate we have provided for infants which is stored by the side of the wardrobe in the double bedroom. It can easily be set up at the bottom or top of the stairs to keep your dog downstairs.
7.6 No smoking Carreg Cottage is a no smoking property both inside the cottage and in the outside spaces i.e. the garden areas at the front and the passageway by the back door. This includes e-cigarettes If you must smoke outside in the vicinity of the cottage, please be courteous to our neighbours and tidy up any ash and cigarette butts.
30 8 Recycling The picture below shows the recycling and refuse collection calendar for Carreg Cottage. The normal day is Wednesday with a few exceptions for bank holidays.
There are 3 bins for recycling and refuse at the back of Carreg Cottage all labelled with a “5”. . The green stack-a-bins are used for recycling such as glass, cardboard, plastic, paper. The small green bin is for food waste. All food waste (raw and cooked) can be collected in the internal food waste bin under the sink in the special bags provided and then transferred to the external food waste bin (no food waste should be placed directly in the bin). All other non-recyclable waste goes in the black wheelie bin.
Please help our cleaner by putting out all waste out on Tuesday evening or Wednesday morning. The refuse collectors will collect the bins from outside the cottage but they do not put the back. You will be able to find them at the end of the back drive way.
Please dispose of nappies, cotton buds, baby wipes, hygiene wipes etc. in the rubbish rather than flushing down the loo.
31 32 9 Outside Space Please be respectful of your neighbours and the local community during your stay at Carreg Cottage.
9.1 Parking The lane at the back of the cottage can get a little congested with cars. Carreg Cottage has space for at most 1 car in the lane adjacent to the property There is the possibility that you may get temporarily blocked in by delivery vans, tradesmen’s vans etc. Please don’t block others in unless for a few minutes to drop off luggage/shopping etc.
Other parking can be found near the local shops and at the rear of the nearby shops there is a free public car park. Please refer to the map available in the cottage on your arrival.
Please do not park on the grass at the front of the property.
9.2 Garden There is a walled garden to the front of the cottage which has an ornamental patio and arrangement of slate stones and a couple of garden benches. Young children may like to play with the stones – if this is the case please would you take the time to rearrange the stones to how you found them before you leave. As well as the walled garden outside the front door, Carreg Cottage also owns part of the grassed area between the cottage and the main road. Please feel free to play games in this area.
9.3 Pets If you have brought your lovely dog on holiday with you, we are sure they will enjoy some great walks in the area. Please be considerate to future guests and our neighbours and clear up after them in the garden or the grassed area at the front of the cottage.
9.4 No smoking Carreg Cottage is a no smoking property both inside the cottage and in the outside spaces i.e. the garden areas at the front and the passageway by the back door. This includes e-cigarettes If you must smoke outside in the vicinity of the cottage, please be courteous to our cleaner and neighbours and tidy up any ash and cigarette butts.
9.5 Washing line There is a communal washing line for the houses in Llugwy Terrace which is located at the end of the back lane between the terrace and the short cut to the shops. You will see a small path leading up to the washing line.
33 34 10 Local attractions Please note that some local attractions may not be open as usual due to Covid-19 restrictions. We recommend checking ahead of any planned visits.
10.1 Pubs and Cafés There are 4 excellent hostelries in Capel Curig all within walking distance of Carreg Cottage.
Goods pubs for beer and food are the Tyn y Coed and the Bryn Tyrch. Both can be found on the A5 heading towards Betws y Coed at 1.0 miles and 0.3 miles respectively.
An excellent café is the Moel Siabod Cafe which is also on the A5 heading towards Betws Y Coed (0.35 miles). Excellent for breakfast and lunch. It is also open some evenings and runs many events.
The National Mountain Training Centre, Plas Y Brenin, is located less than 500.metres away heading towards Snowdon/Llanberis/Caernarfon/Beddgelert The centre has a public bar with one of the best views of Snowdon and regularly puts on lectures about the outdoors.
For more choice, drive to Betws y Coed where there is a choice of cafes, restaurants and pubs. The Alpine Coffee shop near the station is highly recommended but watch out as it can be busy. If Indian is your thing, there is an excellent Indian in Llanrwst (Ty Asha Balti).
10.2 Shops There is one local shop which is an excellent outdoor shop, Joe Brown’s (Joe Brown is a legendary climber). Unfortunately, the local grocery store closed recently. Betws y Coed, 5 miles away, has a wider selection of shops including a Spar and a Londis. If you want a larger supermarket, there is a Coop in Llanrwst. Further afield there are large supermarkets in Bangor and Llandudno. Tesco’s will deliver if you like to shop online.
10.3 Walks Snowdonia has many options for walking both within the mountains and on the coast catering for all levels of experience.
Strenuous walks (3 or more hours):
There are many walks which can be started from the door of Carreg Cottage. For the more adventurous, Moel Siabod, the beautiful mountain you can see from the front of the cottage, can be done as a circular walk from the cottage. Alternatively, you can catch the bus from the bus stop opposite the cottage to Snowdon and climb Snowdon or drive into the Ogwen Valley and walk in the stunning Glyderau and Carneddau mountains.
Medium walks (2-3 hours):
From the cottage door, you can walk up Crithmum(looking out to the left of the cottage) and continue to Llyn Crafnant and, a little further, Llyn Gerionydd. These are both beautiful lakes and great spots for a summer’s picnic.
35 Further afield, take the Miner’s Path on Snowdon up to the first lakes or from Ogwen cottage walk up to and around Llyn Idwal. Llyn Idwal is stunning and you feel right in the heart of the mountains.
Gentle walks (1-2 hours):
From the cottage door, take the lane behind the shops. Go past the public car park and follow the track which takes you down into the Ogwen valley. Turn around as and when you are ready. Or about 200 metres from the car park, turn left and follow the track. At the main road, turn left towards Plas y Brenin and just before the centre go through a gate on the right. Go over the bridge and turn left on to the forest track. Follow this is the Moel Siabod coffee. Return the same way or go down the A5.
The Moel Siabod cafe website has information on several walks in the local area and they have more information in the cafe. https://www.moelsiabodcafe.co.uk/activities/mountain-walks/
There are some more ideas here: https://www.hikideas.co.uk/walk-capel-curig.html
10.4 Cycling Snowdonia is a firm favourite for road cyclists. The Tour of Britain regularly comes here and tackles the infamous Llnaberis pass. A good circular route can be done from the cottage via Bethesda, Llanbeis and Llanberis Pass.
Snowdonia is also blessed with some purpose built mountain bike centres. The closest is Gwydir Forest, Llanrwst which has an excellent red route and some forest trails too. Then there is the connoisseur’s red trail of Penmachno but, a word of warning, be prepared to get wet! A little further afield are the centres of Coed y Brenin and Llandegla. Both centres have many trails for all ages and abilities plus a cafe, bike store and bike rentals.
Gwydir Forest, Llanrwst http://www.mbwales.com/listings/gwydirmawrandbach/
Penmachno trails http://www.mbwales.com/listings/dolen-machno-dolen-eryri/
Llandegla https://oneplanetadventure.com/
Coed y Brenin Forest Park https://www.beicsbrenin.co.uk/
In addition to the centres, there are natural trails on bridleways etc. to be discovered. It is possible to ride on Snowdon outside of the voluntary ban times of day. but be aware of the voluntary ban http://www.cyclingnorthwales.co.uk/pages/snowdn_volunt.htm
10.5 For thrill seekers Indoor Climbing Walls
The National Mountain Training Centre, Plas Y Brenin, is located less than 500.metres away heading towards Snowdon/Llanberis/Caernarfon/Beddgelert The centre has a small indoor climbing which is open to the public.
36 The Beacon Climbing Centre. Located on the Llanberis side of Caernarfon. About 30 minutes drive from Carreg Cottage.
Adventure Activities
Zip World - Experience Adventure https://www.zipworld.co.uk/
Zip World Fforest, Betws y Coed. Rope course adventures and toboggan run near Betws y Coed.
Zip World Velocity, Bethesda. One of the longest zip lines anywhere.
Zip World Caverns, Blaenau Festiniog. Adventures underground in the slate mines near Blaenau Festiniog.
Zip World Titan, Blaenau Festiniog. Group zip wire above the slate mines.
Zip World Bounce Below, Blaenau Festiniog. Trampolining in a slate cavern.
Go Below, adventures in the old slate mines near Penmachno. http://www.go-below.co.uk/
Surf Snowdonia – an artificial surf lagoon in the Conwy valley near Dolgarrog. https://www.surfsnowdonia.com/
10.6 Beaches If you’ve had enough of the mountains or if the rain has set in, then it is always worth heading to the coast where there are many beaches and seaside resorts. Our favourites are:
Newborough Beach on Anglesey
Llandudno and the Great Orme
Black Rock Sands near to Porthmadog. Walk there along the coast from Borth y Gest – it is simply beautiful.
10.7 Other things to do Port Meirion – an Italianate village on the Harlech estuary – also known for the location of the cult TV series The Prisoner. https://www.portmeirion-village.com/
Beddgelert. A beautiful traditional Welsh village. Follow the trail to hear the tragic tale of Gelert. Or take the old steam train through the mountains to Caernarvon. http://www.beddgelerttourism.com/ gelert/
Llyn Padarn, Llanberis. Boating and swimming lake.
National Slate Museum and Old Hospital, Llanberis. https://museum.wales/slate/
Betws y Coed. The shopping and cafe hub of the region. Lovely walks around the rivers starting near the old chapel of St. Michael’s Old Church or up to Llyn Elsi starting behind St Mary’s church in the centre of the village.
The Great Orme country park and the Bronze Age Mine, Llandudno. http://www.visitllandudno.org.uk/outdoors/great-orme-country-park
37 Castles a plenty – our favourite is Beaumaris on Anglesey with a real moat. Caernarfon, Harlech and Conwy are highly recommended too.
10.8 Public transport There is a public bus service with bus stops directly opposite the cottage. Timetables are posted at the bus stop or they are available on the links below. This bus service will take you to Pen y Pass car park for Snowdon walks, Llanberis, Betws y Coed, Llanrwst. There are good links to other bus services and the train station in Betws y Coed. You can plan all your local travel journeys using the traveline website.
Bus Timetables Llanberis - Capel Curig - Betws y Coed – Llanrwst https://www.traveline.cymru/
38 11 Welsh Words and Phrases Here are some words and phrases which may be of use during your stay.
11.1 Some useful Welsh phrases Hello.
Helo. ( Hello )
Hello. ( informal ) S'mae? ( s-my? (north) shoo-my? (south))
How are you? S'mae? ( s-my? (north) shoo-my? (south))
Fine, thank you. iawn, diolch. ( yown, dee-ol'ch )
What is your name? Be' dy'ch enw chi? ( bay di'ch enoo ch'ee? )
My name is ______. ______yw f'enw i. ( _____ you ven-oo ee. )
Nice to meet you. Cwrdd â chi yn foddhaus. ( Crew thv ar Key un Vothv house )
Please. Os gwelwch chi'n dda.
Thank you [very much]. Diolch [yn fawr]. ( dee-ol'ch [un vowr] )
You're welcome. Croeso. ( CROY-so )
There are no exact equivalents of "yes" and "no" in Welsh; the concept is conveyed grammatically by indicating agreement or disagreement e.g. "yes there is" or "no there is not", which is said in different ways depending on how the question was phrased. If the question begins "Oes...?" or "A oes...?" ( "Is there...?" ) then the reply is "oes" or "nac oes"; if the question begins "Ydy...?" ( "Is...?" ) or a construct beginning with "ydy" e.g. "Ydych...?" ( "Do you...?" ) then the reply is "ydy" or "nac ydy"
Yes. Oes. ( oyss ); Ydy ( UD-ee ); Ie ( ee-yeah )
No. Nac oes. ( nak oyss or nag oyss ); Nac ydy ( nac-UD-ee , nag-ud-ee , or NAG-dee ), Na ( Nah )
Excuse me. ( getting attention ) Esgusodwch fi. ( es-gis-OD-oo'ch vee )
39 Excuse me. ( begging pardon ) Esgusodwch fi. ( es-gis-OD-oo'ch vee )
I'm sorry. Mae ddrwg gen i. ( My th'roog gen ee )
Goodbye Ffarwél. ( far-WEL )
Goodbye ( informal ) Da bo chi. ( Da BO ch'ee ) (a contraction of "Duw bu efo gydach chi" - "God be with you")
I can't speak Welsh [well]. Alla i ddim siarad Cymraeg [yn dda]. ( alh'a ee thim sharad kym-RYE-g [un tha] )
Do you speak English? Ydych chi'n siarad Saesneg? ( UD-ich ch'een sharad SIS-neg? )
Is there someone here who speaks English? Oes rhywun yma sy'n siarad Saesneg? ( Oyss reew-in umma seen sharad sis-neg? )
Help! Help! ( ! )
Look out! Hendiwch! ( HEN-dyoo'ch! )
Good morning. Bore da. ( BOR-eh da )
Good evening. Noswaith dda. ( NOSS-why-th tha )
Good night. Nos da. ( NOHS da )
Good night ( to sleep ) Nos da.
I don't understand. Dwi ddim yn deall.
Where is the toilet? Ble' mae'r toiled? ( Blay my'r toy-led? )
11.2 Some geographical Welsh words bach/fach (bagh/vagh) small, fawr/mawr (vowr/mowr) big carn/carnedd (karn/karn-eth) cairn, maen (mine) stone coed (koid) wood dim (dim) no (as in no parking/ camping etc)
40 crib/drum/gribbin (kreeb/drim/greeb-in) ridge dyffryn/glyn (duff-rin/glin) valley, cwm (koom) hanging valley/ corrie, bwlch (bulgh) pass/col ffordd (forth) road, llwybr (llweeb-er) path, bont/pont (bont/pont) bridge mynydd (mu-neeth)mountain, foel (voil) rounded/bare hill, moel (moil) rounded hill, bryn (brin) hill, allt (allt) hillside/cliff goch red (gogh), glas (glas) blue/green, ddu/du (thee/dee) black, coch (kogh) red, wen/wyn (wen/ win) white llyn (llin) lake, rhaeadr (ray-der) waterfall, ffynnon (fin-on) well/spring, nant (nant) stream, afon (a- von) river, aber (a-ber) river mouth/estuary/confluence ogof (o-gov) cave rhiw (roo) slope, rhos (ros) moor, gors (gors) bog
41 42 12 Books & Games Usually, we provide books and games for your enjoyment. However, due to Covid-19 these items have been removed to reduce the risk of spreading the virus.
There are books and games for you to enjoy during your stay. The books not labelled with “Carreg Cottage” may be exchanged for another book if you don’t get chance to finish it.
If you take maps and guide books out with you, please be sure to return them for other guests to use.
43 44 13 Before you leave…
13.1 Check out time Check out time is 9am prompt on the day of departure unless you have made other arrangements with us.
13.2 Keys Please leave the front door key on the breakfast bar and the back door key in the key safe.
13.3 Guest Book Please tell us about your stay and share any recommendations for places to visits, good walks, places to eat/drink. We welcome all feedback.
During the pandemic, please visit our electronic guest book to leave your review.
13.4 Cleaning Please leave the cottage and all equipment and utensils clean and tidy. Please let us know of any damages/breakages. If you brought your pet, please tidy up after them too.
Please remove the linen from all used beds (including any mattress and pillow protectors), and place it in the linen wash bags provided. Place all towels together in one or two linen wash bags provided. Seal the linen wash bags in plastic bags provided and leave in the utility room. Empty all bins and remove all waste from the property as per the waste and recycling instructions in the property folder. Fill the dishwasher with all crockery, pots and pans and cutlery used and start an ECO wash cycle, but do not empty the dishwasher when it is completed. We have provided cleaning products for you to use during your stay.
13.5 Towels Place all towels together in one or two linen wash bags provided.
13.6 Carreg Cottage property Please put all Carreg Cottage property back where you found it when you arrived including furniture, ornaments, games, books, TV controls etc. This also includes the garden and any rearrangement of the stones and gravel.
Please check you have not inadvertently left guidebooks/torch etc. that belong to Carreg Cottage in your bags and of course check that you have all your own belongings.
45 13.7 Fridge and Freezer Remember any items in the fridge and freezer. Please leave the applicances on.
13.8 Dishwasher If you have dirty dishes on the morning of your departure, please put the dishwasher on before you leave but do not empty.
46 47 14 Safety Considerations
It goes without saying that you should follow the national guidelines on reducing the spread of coronavirus, by washing your hands regularly and coughing/sneezing into a tissue which you put straight in the bin.
We also recommend washing your hands whenever you leave or return to the property.
We have provided hand gel and soap for your convenience. Please do not remove these.
14.1 Fire Risk Assessment Please read the Fire Risk Assessment for information on fire risks and mitigations.
14.2 Electrics Carreg Cottage is newly rewired and conforms to Building Regulations. Please refer to certificate.
All appliances in Carreg Cottage have been tested for safety. Please refer to the certificate for more details.
14.3 Gas The gas installation is covered by the attached Landlord’s Gas Certificate.
14.4 Legionnaire’s Disease We have taken steps to ensure that Carreg Cottage is at low risk of legionnaire’s disease – see Legionella Risk Assessment Form in this folder. For your continued safety, we take the following actions:
1. Cold and hot water systems are flushed if the cottage has been vacant for more than 2 weeks.
2. The hot water temperature on the boiler is set to 60°C – please do not adjust this on the boiler.
3. Shower heads are cleaned regularly.
14.5 Chimney Sweeping The chimney at Carreg Cottage was newly installed in 2017. The chimney is swept annually.
48 49 15 Cottage Funnies
15.1 Power cuts Here in Snowdonia we tend to be affected by the weather which can lead to short power cuts. Nearly always this is just a few seconds interruption to the power. It’s annoying but everything in the property should re-start without any problems – clocks on the oven and microwave may need to be reset.
15.2 Broadband Another annoyance is that very occasionally the broadband will drop and then reconnect. This means you may lose TV and radio if you are watching/listening. Please let us know if this is a problem for you.
15.3 Water on window sills The cottage is well insulated so the cold spots tend to be the windows and window sills. It is more than likely that condensation will form on the bathroom window sill and possibly other window sills too. We would very much appreciate you drying them off with the small spare towel provided in the bathroom.
50 51 16 Cottage Inventory See attached list.
52 53 17 User Manual URLs:
Be Smart Thermostat (copy in folder) http://www.vokera.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2015/12/BeSMART_Manual.pdf
Villager Stove http://www.aradastoves.com/pdf/manuals/bk550-rev08.pdf
Caple Cooker Hood https://www.caple.co.uk/downloads/manuals/hoods/cch-cgc-bxc_um.pdf
Zanussi Dishwasher (copy in folder) http://www.electrolux-ui.com/DocumentDownLoad.aspx?DocURL=2015\100\006971umEN.pdf
Zanussi Oven (copy in folder) http://www.electrolux-ui.com/DocumentDownLoad.aspx?DocURL=2016\867\324929umEN.pdf
Zanussi Hob (copy in folder) http://www.electrolux-ui.com/DocumentDownLoad.aspx?DocURL=2016\867\327830umEN.pdf
Kidde Smoke and Heat Alarms (copy in folder) http://www.kiddesafetyeurope.co.uk/Documents/ UG_1SFW_1SFWR_2SFW_2SFWR_3SFW_3SFWR_2015.pdf
Honeywell Carbon Monoxide Alarm (copy in folder) http://www.homesafety.honeywell.com/public/files/Manuals/13164_X-Series%20CO%20Battery %20Alarms_Ops%20Manual_MAN0936_V2_04-14_Final.pdf
Ariston Washer (copy in folder) Note: This is not the actual model in the property but the instructions are very similar. http://www.aristonappliances.us/_pdf/manuals/AW125_MANUAL.pdf http://www.splendide.com/AW125NA_MANUAL_English.pdf
Sharp Television http://www.sharp-cee.com/cps/rde/xbcr/documents/documents/om/11_lcd-tv/LC20-26-32AD5E- S_OM_GB.pdf
54 55 Chimney Sweep Record New flue installation commissioned in January 2018 under Building Regulation control. Minimum requirement for annual chimney sweep.
Date of chimney By whom Comments Signed sweep
30/1/19 InsulaFlue Stove & lining in very Ioan Jones good condition. CO alarm also present.
10/1/20 InsulaFlue Stove & lining in very Ioan Jones good condition. CO alarm also present.
56