Pennal52.58606600,
-3.92143100,
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort, Pennal, Snowdonia National Park(Show on Map)
7.7
Good
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Summary of reviewsMacdonald Plas Talgarth Resort is celebrated for its exceptional location, offering guests breathtaking landscapes and convenient access to Snowdonia, the coast and picturesque countryside. The resort's proximity to natural beauty and key attractions makes it an ideal base for outdoor activities and beach excursions. Visitors appreciate the peaceful and serene surroundings, enhanced by stunning views from spacious accommodations, suitable for families and pet owners alike.
Room offerings are praised for their generous size, cleanliness and well-furnished kitchens, providing a comfortable retreat with excellent vistas. However, some guests point out the need for updates in décor and furniture, along with occasional cleanliness issues that dampen the experience for some. The resort's amenities, including leisure areas, two pools and well-maintained grounds, cater to both children and adults, adding to the overall charm.
Dining experiences at the resort are mixed. The quality of the Indian cuisine is highly praised for its taste and variety. Nonetheless, the limited menu and restricted operating hours, along with occasional slow service, leave room for improvement. Breakfast offerings are notably absent, which some guests find disappointing despite the high quality of the available meals.
Staff at the resort are frequently commended for their friendliness and helpfulness, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Special mentions of exemplary service from specific team members highlight the generally positive guest interactions, albeit with occasional issues regarding staffing levels and responsiveness.
The spa and gym facilities add a significant positive dimension to the resort with guests enjoying the relaxing treatments and well-equipped fitness center. However, some inconsistency in spa services and the outdated gym equipment are noted areas for enhancement.
Free WiFi availability is appreciated, but connectivity issues plague some visitors, suggesting a need for network upgrades. The pool facilities, while well-received for their cleanliness and enjoyment, suffer from frequent maintenance closures and limited operating hours, detracting from an otherwise pleasant experience.
Tennis facilities are a popular on-site activity despite the uneven maintenance of some courts. Ample free parking close to accommodations is another highlight, adding to the convenience of the stay.
Overall, Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort provides a scenic and spacious retreat ideal for unwinding and exploring the beauty of North Wales, though attention to detail in maintenance and service could further enhance the guest experience. Show more
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Categories
Family Friendly Resort
Dog Friendly Resort
Romantic Resort
Resort with Swimming Pool
Indoor Pool Outdoor Pool
Resort with Free Wi-Fi
Resort with Parking
Resort with Gym
Resort with Tennis Courts
Resort with Outdoor Pool
Resort with Indoor Pool
Room Types
Classic Studio ApartmentOur classic studio apartments are the ideal space for two. Enjoy an airy open plan layout, combining a double bed, relaxed living and kitchenette area with a private bathroom.
Two-Bedroom Classic ApartmentThis classic two-bedroom accommodation is suitable for up to 4 adults and 2 children. It includes a double bedroom, a twin bedroom, and a double sofa bed in the lounge area. The living space features a fully equipped kitchen, a spacious lounge, and a family dining area. Ideal for your family or group getaway. Note that many of these are over 2 levels.
Classic Double ApartmentThis one-bedroom apartment is designed with two people in mind. Guests will find a double bedroom, spacious living space with a kitchenette, a relaxing lounge area and dining area.
Classic Twin ApartmentThis classic Twin Apartment is a one-bedroom apartment, tailored for two people. It feautures a spacious living area with a kitchenette, relaxing lounge and dining area.
Two-Bedroom Classic Family ApartmentThe Classic Family Apartment is suited for a maximum of 4 adults and 2 children. It offers a double bedroom and a twin bedroom, including 2 small bunk beds. The living space includes a balcony and a separate fully equipped kitchen and dining area, complete with a patio with views of the countryside. Note that many of these are over 2 levels.
Three-Bedroom Classic ApartmentOur 3 bed apartments, split over 4 levels, feature a cozy double bedroom, relaxing twin bedroom and small bunk room. The living space offers a balcony with breathtaking views across the Dyfi Valley, a fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge and a family dining area with a patio. Suitable for up to 4 adults and 2 children. Note that many of these are over 2 levels.
Three-Bedroom BungalowOur delightful bungalows offer a comfortable double bedroom, a cozy twin bedroom, and a small bunk room. The living space is thoughtfully designed with a fully equipped kitchen, spacious lounge and a family dining area opening up to a patio.Sleeping up to 4 adults and 2 children, enjoy your home from home.
Three-Bedroom ApartmentIntroducing our largest and most spacious apartment, perfect for up to 6 adults and 2 children. Our superior apartment boasts a double bedroom, two twin bedrooms and a double sofa bed in the lounge area. The living space features a fully equipped kitchen, generous lounge and a family dining area. With picturesque countryside views from the balcony, it's the ideal choice for a comfortable and memorable stay.
Guest Reviews
7.7
Good
Location
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort boasts an exceptional location celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and convenient access to both natural beauty and key attractions. Nestled amidst stunning surroundings, guests find themselves in an ideal setting for exploring Snowdonia, the coast and picturesque countryside. The resort offers magnificent views of rolling hills and serene mountains, often described as peaceful and quiet, away from the hustle and bustle of urban life. Its proximity to Aberdovey and local towns enhances its appeal, making it a fantastic base for outdoor activities, beach excursions and woodland walks.
Families and pet owners appreciate the spacious accommodations and variety of facilities. The well-kept grounds and outdoor walks offer ample opportunities to explore, while facilities like swimming pools and leisure areas cater to children and adults alike. Guests repeatedly highlight the spectacular scenery visible from apartments and balconies, which adds to the charm of this retreat.
The area's beauty is encapsulated in the lush green fields, magnificent valleys and pristine air, contributing to an invigorating and restful ambiance. Whether seeking adventures in the mountains, tranquil beach days or a simple getaway from city life, the resort's location positions visitors perfectly to enjoy the best of what North Wales has to offer.
Breakfast
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers a mix of experiences when it comes to breakfast. Some guests noted the lack of breakfast options, highlighting that breakfast wasn't included or available at the restaurant, which differs from other Macdonald resorts. A few guests expressed their wish for a more varied menu for evening meals and the inclusion of breakfast. However, those who did experience breakfast found it to be excellent, served with fresh coffee and attended by very friendly staff. While the absence of breakfast services left some guests disappointed, the quality of the available offerings received positive remarks. No provision for breakfast and lunch was a noticeable concern among some visitors, suggesting that more comprehensive dining options could enhance the overall guest experience.
Dinner
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers an onsite dining experience that seems to be a mix of quality and limitations. The restaurant, primarily serving Indian cuisine alongside some bar food, receives high praise for the taste and quality of its meals. Guests particularly enjoyed the variety of curries with many describing the food as fantastic, divine and absolutely lovely. The restaurant manager’s personal engagements and recommendations often enhanced the dining experience.
However, the menu offerings are quite limited and don’t cater well to diverse dietary requirements, including plant-based diets. Some guests found the prices to be on the expensive side, although others felt the food was reasonably priced given its taste. The service has been described as slow at times with some diners reporting long waits for their meals.
The restaurant operation hours are restricted, opening only in the evening from 6 to 10:30 pm and closed on certain weekdays, which might inconvenience some guests. Additionally, the atmosphere and style of the restaurant have been likened to that of a café, which may not appeal to everyone.
While the bar provides some food options, they are even more limited and received mixed reviews regarding their quality. The bar's food was described by some as disappointing and basic.
Overall, dining at Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort can be a delightful experience, especially if you appreciate well-prepared Indian cuisine, but the limited menu and variable service might not meet everyone's expectations.
Rooms
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers accommodation that is repeatedly praised for its spaciousness, providing guests with plenty of room to relax and unwind. Visitors frequently highlight the generous size of the rooms, apartments and bungalows, many of which also offer stunning views from lounges, balconies and patios. The property's layout often includes multi-story apartments and houses, complete with clean kitchens and comfortable living areas. Many guests appreciate features like saunas and the overall well-equipped nature of the accommodations, making it suitable for both small family holidays and larger groups.
While the resort receives positive feedback for its beautiful location and value for money, there is a consistent mention of outdated decor and furniture with some rooms described as run-down and in need of updating. Basic room equipment and issues like stained carpets and musty smells also detract from the overall experience for some guests. Despite these concerns, the spaciousness and comfort of the rooms, along with well-furnished kitchens and the provision of necessary amenities, often ensure a pleasant stay. The property’s cleanliness is generally satisfactory, although some visitors have encountered instances where it falls short of expectations.
Overall, Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort provides large and comfortable accommodation with excellent views, ideal for guests who prioritize space and self-catering facilities, but the dated interiors and occasional cleanliness issues could benefit from attention and improvements.
Beds
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort features a mix of feedback regarding their bedding arrangements. Many guests appreciated the comfort of the beds, describing them as comfy and clean with some mentioning the good quality bedding. Larger beds and the presence of queen-sized options were also praised, contributing to a more restful experience for several visitors.
However, not all reviews were favorable. Some guests found the mattresses to be old, lumpy and hard, which detracted from their sleep quality. Issues such as single mattresses being pushed together and small double beds were noted. There were also mentions of beds being dirty with some reporting unclean linens and even instances of bed bugs.
Despite the inconsistent experiences, there were positive comments about the size of the apartments, the inclusion of saunas and the helpful staff, which enhanced their overall stay.
Cleanliness
Guests' reviews of the Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort reflect a mixed experience regarding cleanliness. While many visitors appreciated the accommodation's spaciousness and the provision of clean bedding and towels, others found significant shortcomings. The positive notes highlight clean, comfortable properties with well-maintained grounds and scenic views, contributing to an enjoyable stay.
However, the praise is overshadowed by numerous complaints about the overall cleanliness. Common issues included dust, spider webs, dirty carpets and unclean kitchen areas. Specific mentions included debris, mouse droppings and stained or outdated furnishings. Multiple reviews pointed out that some parts of the accommodation were not up to standard, requiring deep cleaning or more thorough attention, especially in high-traffic areas like the bathrooms and living rooms.
Guests frequently noted unpleasant odors, such as musty smells or the scent of dirty mopping. The cleanliness of initial impressions varied with some guests finding their rooms spotless upon arrival, while others discovered significant cleanliness oversights.
In summary, Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers a pleasant, scenic location with spacious accommodations. Still, there are considerable inconsistencies in cleanliness, suggesting that while some areas are well-kept, others need significant improvement.
Staff
At the Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort, the reviews consistently highlight the remarkable friendliness and helpfulness of the staff. Many guests appreciate the welcoming atmosphere created by the staff across various areas of the resort, including the pub, restaurant and leisure center. The reception team stands out for their politeness and efficiency, often going above and beyond to assist guests. Specific team members, such as a helpful receptionist named Ella and the professional Damien, received special mention for their exemplary service.
However, there are occasional concerns about the adequacy of the staffing levels and some inconsistencies in responsiveness and communication. Some guests reported issues with a lack of sufficient staff presence and a few instances of unhelpfulness, particularly at reception. Despite these occasional criticisms, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive with the staff often described as lovely, accommodating and attentive. The efforts of the team to provide a warm and pleasant stay for guests are frequently recognized and praised.
Wi-Fi
At Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort, guest experiences with the WiFi are notably varied. Some visitors found the WiFi to be excellent and described it as good and even great, implying a reliable connection in certain areas or at certain times. Free WiFi availability is a bonus that was appreciated by many guests. However, there were several mentions of poor WiFi connection with some guests experiencing significant connectivity issues. These problems included the WiFi dropping out frequently and in some instances, it was not working at all. Issues with phone connections and the inability to contact reception also affected the overall connectivity experience. Thus, while some enjoyed a satisfactory internet experience, others felt the WiFi needed upgrading and found it unreliable, especially for those needing consistent access.
Spa
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers a mix of experiences when it comes to its spa facilities. Many guests praised the spa for its good facilities, noting that it’s a great spot for relaxation and provides a nice ambiance. Some visitors appreciated the great spa treatments and highlighted the diligent spa staff who contributed to a pleasant experience. The resort's amenities, including two pools, a sauna and a gym with free access, were commended, creating a well-rounded leisure environment.
However, there were several instances where guests found the spa closed, under-resourced or not staffed adequately. Issues such as unavailable massage appointments and non-working facilities like the jacuzzi and sauna were noted, which disappointed some visitors. Despite these drawbacks, many guests still found the spa well-maintained and a valuable addition to their stay, especially appreciating features like private saunas in their apartments. Overall, the spa seems to add a significant positive element to the resort, even though some improvements and consistent availability could enhance the guest experience further.
Gym
The gym at Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort receives generally positive feedback from guests. It is well-equipped and kept clean, making it a pleasant space for those who wish to maintain their fitness routines while traveling. Visitors appreciate the on-site convenience of the gym, noting that it has good facilities and is well-maintained.
However, there are mentions of some limitations and areas for improvement. Access to the gym can be restricted at times due to usage rules, which has caused some frustration among guests who couldn't use the facilities when they wanted to. Additionally, while the equipment is functional, it is somewhat dated and could benefit from upgrades and possibly a fresh coat of paint to enhance the overall experience. Despite being small, the gym is seen as a useful amenity, though expanding the facilities could make it even better.
In summary, the gym at Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort is a valuable feature that guests generally enjoy, but there is room for improvement in terms of equipment updates and accessibility.
Pool
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers a range of pool facilities that have garnered both praise and some criticism. The outdoor pool received high marks for being heated, warm and well-maintained, making it a hit with both children and adults. Its ease of access and the fun experiences it provided were consistently highlighted. The cleanliness of the outdoor pool was generally noted positively, although occasional debris and maintenance issues were mentioned.
The indoor pool also received favorable comments for its cleanliness and overall enjoyment. However, it frequently had maintenance issues, leading to closures that left guests disappointed. The indoor pool's facilities, including the jacuzzi and sauna, were appreciated but often described as needing an update. The limited operating hours of the pools, especially for children, added to some guests' frustrations.
Overall, while both pools were enjoyed when operational, recurring maintenance problems and limited hours affected the satisfaction levels of many visitors. Despite these setbacks, the pool amenities contributed positively to the resort experience when they were in service.
Tennis
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort offers a variety of tennis facilities, ensuring there's plenty to keep sports enthusiasts entertained. The resort boasts three tennis courts set in a picturesque valley, which are free to use and a big hit with the kids. While some guests found the courts in good condition and even described them as amazing, others noted that certain courts are not well-maintained and have uneven surfaces. Despite these mixed reviews, tennis remains a popular on-site activity, complemented by other amenities such as two pools, a sauna, a jacuzzi and a gym, all of which are accessible to guests. Moreover, lawn tennis and table tennis are also readily available, providing diverse options for recreational activities.
Parking
The parking situation at Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort is predominantly positive. Guests frequently highlight the ample availability of parking, ensuring that finding a spot is rarely an issue. Allocated and assigned parking spots are appreciated with many reviews noting the convenience of parking right in front of their accommodation or just a short walk away. Free onsite parking is a welcome feature, making the overall experience hassle-free. Despite a couple of mentions regarding a flooded car park and minor parking difficulties, most guests found the parking experience to be smooth and satisfactory.
Outdoor Pool
When considering the outdoor pool at the Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort, guests had mixed experiences. Many appreciated the heated outdoor pool, describing it as a lovely and fun feature that children especially enjoyed. It was noted to be in good condition and seen as a real bonus for their stay, often being cited as a highlight and a popular spot for guests. The pool's good size also drew positive comments with its warmth being particularly praised by visitors.
However, there were some consistent concerns regarding its maintenance. Reviews commonly mentioned issues such as the pool being broken or closed during their visit, the water being cold or even freezing and the area around the pool requiring more cleaning. Reports of dirty conditions, including leaves and dirt in the pool, were frequent, indicating a need for more regular upkeep. Despite these concerns, many still viewed the outdoor pool as a key amenity, when operational, contributing to an enjoyable stay at the resort.
Indoor Pool
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort boasts a medium-sized indoor pool that has garnered mixed reviews from its guests. Many visitors found the indoor pool to be wonderful and children especially enjoyed their time there. Positive remarks highlight the pool as being clean, tidy and paired with excellent poolside facilities, making it a very nice spot for relaxation. Families appreciated the fun aspect for kids with some noting the pool as a highlight of their stay.
However, several guests have reported recurrent issues with the indoor pool's availability and maintenance. Numerous reviews pointed out that the pool was broken or closed, often causing disappointment. There were also mentions of limited operation hours, needing better booking management and occasional cleanliness issues. Some guests found the indoor pool area limited in space and the pool water was sometimes described as uncomfortably cold.
Complementing the indoor pool are the resort's other amenities like a heated outdoor pool, tennis courts and a good-sized gym, all contributing to an overall pleasant leisure experience despite the indoor pool's inconsistencies.
Romantic
At the Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort, many guests emphasized the romantic atmosphere and peaceful environment as key highlights of their stay. The resort's beautiful and quiet location offers stunning views, making it an idyllic spot for a honeymoon getaway or a romantic escape. Despite a slight inconvenience with the restaurant's limited spaces and opening times, which was attributed to being understaffed, the overall serene and quiet ambiance makes it an appealing choice for couples seeking a romantic retreat.
Dog Friendly
Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort is highly praised for its pet-friendly facilities and services, making it a popular choice for dog owners seeking a getaway. The accommodations welcome pets warmly and guests appreciate the fact that dogs are allowed in the rooms, which are specifically designed to be dog-friendly. The resort sits amidst beautiful countryside, offering great views from the balconies and ample opportunities for dogs to run and walk off-lead in a dog-friendly estate.
Guests noted that there were dedicated spaces for dogs, such as bits of grass and appreciated the flexibility of allowing dogs to stay for free. Many guests loved the freedom for their pets, highlighting that dogs are not only allowed but are welcomed and accommodated with consideration.
However, some reviews mentioned areas for improvement, such as occasional dog hairs on carpets and a dog smell in the apartments. Additionally, a few guests felt there could be more walking areas on the premises. Despite these minor drawbacks, the overall sentiment is positive with the resort providing a pleasant and practical environment for both dogs and their owners.
Yes, Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort has pool(s) that belong to one or more of the following categories: Indoor Pool, Outdoor Pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Macdonald Plas Talgarth Resort.