UK seaside village so beautiful that psychologists say visiting it can boost your mood
- UK Hidden Gems
- 7 days ago
- 2 min read
A stunning UK village is so bright and colourful that experts believe visiting it could help lift people’s moods.
This place in Wales has long been a favourite with visitors who come to explore its Italian style buildings, pretty gardens and hillside setting.
The attraction often appears on lists of the UK’s most beautiful places, with many saying it feels like being in Italy thanks to its strong links to the Amalfi Coast.
Designed and built by Welsh architect Clough Williams Ellis between 1925 and 1973, Portmeirion is filled with pastel coloured buildings, storybook style flower displays and fountains that look like they belong in a fairytale palace.
Popular spots include the Central Piazza with its fountain pool and Gothic Pavilion, while fans of the TV show The Prisoner may recognise The Round House, which was used as the home of the character Number 6.
Other highlights include the historic Hercules Hall, plenty of cafes and shops, and a gelateria serving handmade gelato alongside teas, coffees and light bites.
One pleased visitor wrote: "We really enjoyed our visit. Everything was very clean and there were plenty of toilets. It’s a bit unusual but in a good way. The views are amazing and we loved the woodland walk too. It is steep though, so not ideal for everyone."
Another visitor said: "Such a beautiful and unique place. There is an app you can download that tells you all about the buildings. It is hilly, but the walk is worth it. Definitely worth visiting."
Because of this, it is no surprise that experts believe a trip here could genuinely improve your mood.
Colour psychologist Karen Haller teamed up with travel insurance company Staysure earlier this year and suggested that spending time in colourful places can boost wellbeing.
Karen explained: "There is something about being surrounded by colour that lifts your mood straight away. It affects how you feel, how you move through a place and even how you connect with other people.
That is why colourful destinations are becoming more popular. We are drawn to them not just because they look nice, but because they make us feel happier, more open and more alive. These are the places and experiences that stay with you."
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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