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Anglesey holiday let owners recognised in Sykes award

Anglesey holiday let owners recognised in Sykes award

Bryn Eglwys Bach and Y Gorlan were named winners in the Sykes Holiday Cottages awards programme, which recognises 'exceptional' holiday homes based on guest feedback.
The Sykes Stars programme, now in its third year, celebrates holiday homeowners across the UK who have received excellent feedback scores from guests over the last 12 months.Y Gorlan (Image: Supplied)
The owners of Bryn Eglwys Bach and Y Gorlan were among just 33 sets of holiday let owners to be awarded three Perfect 10 certificates from Sykes in the last year, making them Sykes Stars.
To receive a Perfect 10 certificate, owners must have at least six reviews from guests each quarter giving them 100 per cent feedback.
James Shaw, managing director of Sykes Holiday Cottages, said: "We love celebrating the incredible variety of holiday lets across the UK, and our Sykes Stars represent some of the very best of what's on offer.Bryn Eglwys Bach (Image: Supplied)
"It's a privilege to recognise owners like these in Wales who go above and beyond to deliver unforgettable experiences for their guests.
"Our winners play a vital role in shaping the UK holiday let market, especially as demand for unique, high-quality stays continues to grow.
"With Wales remaining a top choice for staycations, we're excited to see how our owners in the region continue to set new standards and inspire others in the industry."Y Gorlan (Image: Supplied)
Carol Jones, 56, first started letting Bryn Eglwys Bach to holidaymakers in July 2022 after she moved house and spotted the 'perfect opportunity' to convert the annexe of her new property.
Ms Jones has seen success with her venture ever since, with guests often 'delighted' at Bryn Eglwys Bach's impressive panoramic views of the Snowdonia mountains, alongside its many amenities including a hot tub for stargazing.
She said: "I'm so happy that all my hard work with Bryn Eglwys Bach has paid off.
"It's one thing getting to meet lovely new people as a holiday let owner, but quite another to be recognised for it with amazing feedback."
After a 15-month renovation project, Dewi, 57, and Rhian, 55, Evans first opened Y Gorlan, their two-bedroom barn conversion, to holidaymakers in January 2023.
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Y Gorlan regularly receives 'raving reviews', with several repeat guests coming year after year.
Dewi Evans, co-owner of Y Gorlan, said: "Rhian and I are very proud of our Sykes Star award which has really motivated us to maintain the high standards we've strived to meet since setting out.
"We really enjoy holiday letting and getting to meet all our guests and it's always nice to know that our efforts to make our Y Gorlan a home away from home are appreciated."

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