The secret Welsh village that rebuilt itself as an Italian fantasy
- UK Hidden Gems
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
Tucked away on a secluded peninsula on the North Wales coast, this extraordinary village looks like it has been magically airlifted straight from the sun-drenched Italian Riviera.
The atmosphere is utterly surreal and slightly eerie, with brightly painted buildings, grand piazzas, and ornate architecture clashing dramatically with the rugged, slate-grey mountains of Snowdonia.
The sheer difficulty of reaching this untouched spot only enhances the feeling of having discovered a profound secret.
The unique and unforgettable destination we’ve uncovered for your next holiday is Portmeirion, a fantasy creation in Gwynedd, Wales, that famously served as the setting for the cult 1960s television show The Prisoner.
This ambitious and utterly unique private village was designed and built by the architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975.
This spot is a genuine marvel for keen walkers and architectural enthusiasts.
Portmeirion’s astonishing secret is its origin as a completely deliberate architectural experiment, built to prove that beautiful, ornate design could coexist with and enhance a spectacular natural landscape.
Williams-Ellis consciously incorporated recycled pieces of demolished stately homes and ruins into his vision, giving the town a magnificent, faux-ancient feel that brilliantly mimics the picturesque chaos of the Amalfi Coast.
It is an untouched fantasy built from forgotten history.
For practical travellers, be aware that Portmeirion is a private village with a paid entrance fee, and it is entirely pedestrianised to preserve its unique ambiance.
Visitors must leave their cars in the large, designated car park just outside the main gate, so be prepared to walk.
Ensure your boot is packed with waterproof gear and sturdy boots, as the Welsh weather can be unpredictable, even when you're surrounded by Italianate splendour!
Remember - LeaveNoTrace!
As with anywhere outdoors, kindly keep these areas pristine and wild by taking all trash with you. The amount of complaints we have seen since the pandemic is crazy. It's really not that hard to take your rubbish with you!
Litter tends to spread, so if you see any and are able to pick it up and dispose of it outside the hidden gem, it will help keep the area tidy.
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