With so much to enjoy right on our doorstep and thousands of handpicked holiday cottages located in special places, from the glorious shores of South Wales to North Wales’ mountainous heights to, you’re spoilt for choice when choosing your next place to stay. But don’t worry, we’re here to help.
Laura Kerslake at Wales Cottage Holidays dug through the 2025 data covering how many bookings properties received, the number of 5-star reviews gained, and how many people have viewed them on our website, to collate our top cottages for 2026.
She told us……
“Each year, our Top Properties list gives us a fascinating insight into what guests are really looking for in a holiday cottage. For 2026, demand is leaning towards distinctive stays that feel memorable — whether that’s historic charm, standout features or truly exceptional locations.
What’s particularly interesting is seeing both long-standing and emerging trends reflected in the data. Dog-friendly cottages continue to be a major priority for our guests; for several years now, more than half of the properties in our Top Cottages list have welcomed dogs. We’re also seeing growing demand for cottages with hot tubs. Last year, 50% of our top properties featured a hot tub, rising to 75% in this year’s list.
These cottages have earned their place through genuine guest feedback and strong booking performance, making them a fantastic source of inspiration for anyone planning a holiday in Wales in 2026.”
The list has been compiled using a combination of booking numbers, 5-star guest reviews, and website page views, offering an insight into the properties that proved most popular with holidaymakers in 2025.
Split into the top three properties from North, South, Mid and West Wales, the final selection showcases the wide variety of accommodation available across the country. From a luxurious Grade II-listed country house to a unique turf-covered roundhouse, the list highlights the broad spectrum of stays available, in standout Welsh locations.
So, if you’re looking for a getaway in 2026, these popular Welsh retreats might inspire you. Whether it’s a cosy romantic getaway, an idyllic hot tub retreat, or a luxurious cottage, the holiday choices below are some of the best-loved in Wales.
Top cottages in South Wales
Croes Vaen, near Monmouth | sleeps 10 + 2 dogs
Look at the photos of this magnificent Grade II-listed country home, and we’re sure you’ll see why it’s a popular cottage in South Wales. This 5-star property boasts luxurious interiors that are also welcoming and cosy. There’s a fantastic games room where the whole family can get involved, and several cosy spots where you can be warmed by a fire.
Outside, you’ll find even more luxury – there’s a private, covered hot tub and a sauna. Many of the property’s 5-star reviews mentioned these fantastic features, with guests raving about how they made the holiday extra-special.
You’ll love…
- Fun family nights in the games room
- Relaxing in the hot tub and sauna
- The charming period features and modern comforts
Cwrt-y-gaer The Granary – Wolvesnewton, near Chepstow | sleeps 4
This cosy retreat near Chepstow is the perfect spot for a family break in South Wales. Set in the beautiful Monmouthshire countryside, Cwrt-y-gaer The Granary offers stunning panoramic views and a great location. Within easy reach of Chepstow and the Wye Valley, there is plenty of exploring to be done from here.
That’s if you can tear yourselves away from this lovely home; guests repeatedly praised the wonderful hosts, the private location, and how relaxing the home is. Many guests couldn’t resist a return trip, or two, because they loved it so much.
You’ll love…
- Al fresco dinners in the beautiful grounds
- Cosy nights sat in the glow of the fire
- Toasting marshmallows over the fire pit
Southbank, Ogmore-by-Sea | sleeps 10
The South Wales coast is popular with families and groups, and this family-friendly home proved to be especially popular. Southbank is a dream coastal stay for all, in the most spectacular setting. Perched above the beach, you’ll enjoy incredible seaside views, whether you’re chilling in the lounge, relaxing in the hot tub, or eating a delicious meal. When we say family friendly, we mean it – there’s even a playroom with a climbing wall.
Guests could not have loved this incredible home more; it’s never had less than a solid 5-star review. They were awed by the stunning views and the fact that the coast path and beach are right at the end of the garden. Southbank’s guests were also wowed by the wonderful facilities for the whole family, such as the hot tub and playroom.
You’ll love…
- The breathtaking panoramic sea views
- Watching the kids conquer the indoor climbing wall
- Scenic coast path walks right from your doorstep
Top cottages in West Wales
Hen Efail, near New Quay | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
West Wales offers a wonderful blend of coast and country, and the 2025 top cottage from the region is a perfect example. Hen Efail is tucked away in a secluded countryside position, but within easy reach of New Quay and many other fantastic coastal locations. It’s not just an amazing spot that this beautiful property offers – it’s perfect for getting the whole family together with its spacious interiors, games cabin, and hot tub.
These wonderful features were a big part of why visitors rated it so highly; they loved spending time together over a game of pool, soaking in the bubbles, and enjoying the views. Many also commented on the high specification of Hen Efail and how beautifully presented it is.
You’ll love…
- The great location close to New Quay, famed for its dolphins
- Taking in the countryside views from your private hot tub
- Competitive family fun in the games room
Lexden, Saundersfoot | sleeps 9
Sea views, a great village location, and 5-star luxury interiors – these are just some of the reasons why the wonderful Lexden made it onto the top cottages list. Located in Saundersfoot, this large property is perfect for a beach break with the whole gang. From sitting on the balcony and watching the sun rise above the water to evenings in the hot tub after busy days out, Lexden is a dream holiday home for all.
Being so close to the beach was a big hit with guests, as well as the proximity to Saundersfoot’s many pubs, bars, and restaurants. The games room was a big hit for families that visited, while the hot tub also proved extremely popular. All in all, it was voted a top place to stay for all kinds of groups.
You’ll love…
- Sitting on the balcony and taking in the sea views
- Hot tub nights after days spent on the beach
- Exploring Saundersfoot’s many eateries and pubs
The Little Barn Cilgraig, near Llandysul | sleeps 2 + 4 dogs
Surrounded by acres of private woodland and gardens, this secluded barn conversion was the most popular West Wales abode for a romantic break. Not only is it perfect for couples, with a cosy fire to snuggle by and a hot tub for relaxing in, it’s also super dog-friendly. The Little Barn Cilgraig welcomes up to four dogs, meaning visitors can bring the whole pack on holiday.
The property’s dog-friendly appeal was a winner with guests; they loved the secure enclosed garden, the woodland walks, and the cosy fire. The private hot tub was also very popular, with many visitors mentioning it in their 5-star reviews.
You’ll love…
- The private woodland location
- Romantic nights by the fire
- Watching the sunset as you relax in the hot tub
Top cottages in Mid Wales
Abercamlais Estate – Garden Cottage, near Brecon | sleeps 4 + 3 dogs
Set within the grounds of a Grade I-listed mansion, this charming cottage proved to be a huge hit for those visiting Mid Wales. Enjoying a peaceful location within the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park, this splendid cottage is an ideal home-from-home for those wanting to relax and explore. Within the extensive grounds, you’ll have access to a tennis court, the River Usk for wild swimming and fly fishing, and a dog paddock.
The grounds proved to be extremely popular with our guests; adults, kids and four-legged friends all loved being able to explore the estate before returning to the peace and privacy of this beautiful home. Visitors were also impressed by the welcome baskets, with many 5-star reviews noting that humans and dogs received their own thoughtful gifts.
You’ll love…
- The beautiful interiors that are both cosy and luxurious
- Washing muddy paws in the convenient dog shower
- A game of doubles on the on-site tennis court
Hidden Hollow, near Llanidloes | sleeps 2 + 1 dog
If you’re looking for a unique stay that you’ll remember forever, this turf-covered roundhouse in Mid Wales could be the one for you. This is glamping at its most luxurious and romantic. Inside, you’ll find underfloor heating, bespoke furniture, and beautiful decor. Outside is equally as wonderful, with the peaceful garden, private hot tub, and plenty of areas to sit and connect.
The peace and quiet was one of the top factors in the many 5-star reviews Hidden Hollow received. Guests loved relaxing in the hot tub and gardens, and listening to the river and birdsong in this tranquil, private location.
You’ll love…
- Feeling like you’ve stepped into the pages of a novel at this magical abode
- Taking in the scenic views as you soak in the hot tub
- The charming touches, including bespoke furniture and statues
Wisteria Cottage – Bwthyn yr Ardd, Aberystwyth | sleeps 4 + 3 dogs
This enchanting stone cottage is consistently one of the most booked properties, and one glance will tell you why. Inside and out, Wisteria Cottage offers a beautiful blend of luxury and comfort. Set within 3.5 acres of woodland, it’s a peaceful and private break for all in a wonderful location. Situated in the heart of the countryside and close to Aberystwyth, green landscapes and coastal adventures are both within easy reach.
That’s if you bear to leave this stunning spot, with its fire and bubbling hot tub – both of which were big hits with guests in 2025. One guest commented, “This cottage is one of the best finds in Wales”.
You’ll love…
- The covered hot tub, offering bubbling bliss whatever the weather
- Cosy nights in by the fire
- Exploring the very best of Mid Wales’ coast and country
Top cottages in North Wales
Bryn Celyn Cottage, near Ruthin | sleeps 6 + 2 dogs
The most loved property of 2025 was the beautiful Bryn Celyn Cottage, and it’s easy to see why. This beautiful 5-star property really pulls out all the stops when it comes to luxury living. Inside, you’ll find sumptuous interiors with room for the whole family in the open-plan living area.
It’s in the idyllic enclosed garden where you’ll find the extra-special facilities that had our guests in raptures. There’s a full outdoor kitchen, including a wood-fired pizza oven for the chefs in your party. And for those who want to rejuvenate and relax, there’s a cold-plunge pool, a sauna, and a bubbling hot tub.
You’ll love…
- Cooking up a storm in the outdoor kitchen
- Braving the cold-plunge pool before warming up in the hot tub or sauna
- Enjoying the luxurious surroundings with your family and friends
Yr Hen Ysgubor, rural Llyn Peninsula | sleeps 2 + 2 dogs
Located on the gorgeous Llyn Peninsula, Yr Hen Ysgubor is a traditional Welsh barn that’s recently been converted to the highest standard to make a cosy holiday home for two. The cottage is perfect for a romantic retreat, whether you want to explore the surrounding National Landscape or relax and take in the beautiful views.
Guests really loved how dog friendly this stylish barn is, with its enclosed garden and doggie extras such as treats and blankets provided. They also highly rated the welcoming interiors and how easy it was to access the coast and countryside from the front door.
You’ll love…
- Cosying up in front of the roaring wood burner
- Letting the dogs play in the enclosed garden
- Al fresco dinners on the patio while admiring the views
Pod Llangelynnin, Conwy | sleeps 2
Set in an idyllic location in the Conwy Valley and boasting excellent facilities, it’s no wonder that this stylish glamping pod was one of the top properties in 2025. It’s set within a private courtyard on a family farm. There’s a hot tub, a BBQ, and sun loungers, perfect for relaxing on balmy days. On-site, there’s also a shared sauna and a games room, ideal for getting competitive with your partner.
Guests were totally won over by pod-life, describing it as cosy and relaxing, and they absolutely adored the incredible countryside views. Another reason it received so many 5-star reviews was its fantastic location – Conwy, Llandudno, and Anglesey are all just a short drive away.
You’ll love…
- Challenging your partner in the shared games room
- Enjoying soaks in the bubbles of the private hot tub
- Firing up the BBQ for an al fresco meal together
To find out more on these and many other properties go HERE.
