The owners of three local holiday lets are celebrating after picking up awards for their properties in North Wales.
Yr Hen Oriel in the hamlet of Ceunant, owned by Maria and Huw Gwilym, won in the Best for Walking category, while Elaine and Nick Rhind scooped gold for their property in Bethesda, Bryn Derwen, in the Best for Large Groups category.
Best in North Wales overall was awarded to Ali and Anna Edwards, with their property in the quaint village of Rhuallt, Offas Dyke Escape, taking home the top prize for the region.
The awards programme by staycation specialist Sykes Holiday Cottages saw a significant number of entries from across the UK and Ireland – with all three properties beating off tough competition to take home the trophy.
The Sykes Gem Awards first launched in 2017 and aim to celebrate the best people and properties in the UK’s holiday let sector – judged by a panel of industry experts including Sykes’ CEO Graham Donoghue and COO Bev Dumbleton, as well as The Sun’s Assistant Travel Editor Sophie Swietochowski.
Properties were judged using owner entries and guest feedback, alongside details like photos, occupancy figures and property amenities.
The judging panel were impressed by the style and facilities on offer at Yr Hen Oriel, Bryn Derwen and Offas Dyke Escape, along with guest feedback on cleanliness, comfort, and value for money.
Graham Donoghue, CEO of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: “We’re excited to have relaunched the Sykes Gems to recognise and reward some of the best holiday lets across the country.
“A lot of work goes into running a successful holiday let so it was a difficult decision amongst so many wonderful properties, but our final winners are those consistently going above and beyond to deliver unforgettable breaks for their guests.
“Staycations are as popular as ever in 2023, with many Brits having rediscovered their love of a holiday at home during the pandemic. Because of this, those with a second home in North Wales might be tempted to turn it into a holiday let – with our Gem Award winners offering plenty of inspiration for those who need it!”
