Portmeirion, a welsh Gem

North Wales is well-known for its beauty. From the mountains and valleys of Snowdonia to the beaches of the coastline there are wonderful feasts for the eyes. The one thing that they all have in common, though, is that they are all natural. In the county of Gwynedd, crouching by the coast, resides an exception to this pattern.

Portmeirion is a resort village designed by Sir Clough William-Ellis. Created to capture the feel of the Mediterranean, and considered to bear a distinct likeness to the Italian fishing village of Portofino, it really is a jewel in North Wales' coastline.

Perfectly complimenting the already gorgeous landscape in which it lies, the fanciful and almost whimsical charm of the place has endeared it to many people over the years, and provided inspiration for numerous writers, architects and musicians.

The other interesting aspect of Portmeirion, and one that it's best known for, is its role in the filming of Patrick McGoohan's 'The Prisoner' in which it was used as the location for 'the Village', the mysterious prison which trapped Number Six.

It has played other roles though, appearing in episodes of Danger Man, Doctor Who, Citizen Smith and Cold Feet. It was also used in the video for Supergrass' 'Alright', and has appeared in multiple documentaries, especially where there is cause to mention 'The Prisoner'.

The history of the area and its influence on popular culture may appeal to you, but ultimately it is the aesthetic value that brings in most visitors. Not only is there the wonderful architecture in the resort itself, but Castell Deudraeth, a heavy-set Victorian building, and its grounds are also open to sightseers. The appearances of each area are in stark contrast with one and other, but both have a lot to offer.

The views out of the bay, the paths winding past thick trees and through intricately designed plazas, and the bright colours of the flowers, the buildings and the furnishings are all indicators of the amount of planning, work and vision that went into the building of the village. Truly worth visiting and genuinely beautiful, a trip to Portmeirion is like stepping into the Mediterranean without crossing any ocean.

--
This article was written by Tom Sangers on behalf of STS Holidays who offer great North Wales Self Catering Cottages