Seaside home steeped in history

If you're one of the many Brits who dream of waking up every morning to crisp sea air and far-reaching views over some of Wales's best beaches, then you might consider a holiday home in one of Darwin's favourite haunts - the picturesque seaside town of Barmouth. View our gallery by clicking through the pages below.nextpage

Cors Y Gedol, a Grade II listed building perched in the heart of Barmouth, was originally built in 1795 as a resting place for weary travellers coming into Barmouth. Perhaps its most famous patron was Shrewsbury-born Charles Darwin, who spent a great deal of time exploring the town and its surrounding areas, even writing part of his groundbreaking 'Origin of the Species' there.nextpage

The hotel was re-built in 1872 to cater for a new tidal wave of tourism fuelled by the construction of the world's longest wooden viaduct, the Barmouth Railway Bridge. After its closure, the historic building remained unoccupied and unloved for decades until recently, when it was renovated and re-developed into 14 spacious and elegant seaside apartments.

Now, the Cors Y Gedol building is an award-winning Urbanbuild development which includes three retail outlets, and most of the one and two-bedroom apartments boast magnificent views over the sea or mountains.nextpage

Alison Smith, representative for Urbanbuild, said: "I've discovered that the majority of the visitors viewing the Apartments hail from Shropshire and the Midlands.

"Barmouth is clearly a favourite getaway destination for people from these areas, and the apartments are ideal for someone considering a holiday home or even potentially retiring to such a beautiful location."nextpage

The interior of the building had to be completely gutted and was re-structured to expand the small rooms into light and airy apartments with plenty of space.

Home comforts such as soundproofing and well insulated suspended ceilings/floors are key features, along with light and motion triggered energy-saving lights turn on and off automatically. There's also lift access to most of the apartments, and a secure door release intercom ensures the resident only receives welcome visitors!nextpage

Each of the 14 apartments boast their own unique interiors and features, including spacious living rooms, contemporary kitchens, stylish bathrooms, secure door entry system full central heating and master bedrooms with en-suite shower rooms.

Classic features such as original oak beams, box sash windows and deep skirting boards complement the modern touches such as brushed stainless steel and clean, fresh colour schemes.nextpage

The views from the front stretch across the vast beach and the breathtaking Mawddach estuary, while behind the building are panoramic mountain views extending towards Cadair Idris.

There are now only four apartments left at Cors Y Gedol, each differing in size and character, and prices range from £119,000 - £199,000. They are available to view on Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

For more information call Alison Smith on 07964 550023 or agent Walter Lloyd Jones on (01341) 241478.