
Things to do in Portmeirion North Wales, An Italian Inspired village
Portmeirion in North Wales is a mysterious private village that whisks you into another realm. Imagine weaving within the mountains of the Snowdonia National Park one minute and arriving in a colourful Mediterranean paradise the next! Located on its private peninsula, this award winning picturesque tourist village is certainly worthy of a day trip or even a weekend away. Read on to discover all the best things to do in Portmeirion village for a wonderful escape.
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Where is Portmeirion
Quick reference guide
Portmeirion is within Snowdonia National Park, close by Porthmadog and Bets’y’Coed which both make brilliant locations to stay when you visit Wales. They conveniently also have train stations which make it easier for you to get around without a car. Be sure to check out Transport for Wales to discover the best routes around the country.
However, If a day trip to Portmeirion isn’t enough, you can stay in the various luxury self-catering cottages in the village. There are many stunning rooms with equally beautiful views, so if you want a unique stay make sure you’ve pre-booked.
Booking.com
The 10 Best Things to do in Portmeirion in North Wales
Portmeirion in North Wales was designed by Sir William Clough Ellis (also known as Sir Clough William Ellis), who was knighted for his impressive services to British architecture.
Once you have gotten over your initial awe as you first step into the iconic Italian village, you will realise there are many more things to do in Portmeirion than you would first expect.
1) Explore the beautiful Italian Village
Portmeirion in North Wales has an amazing picture-perfect architecture that you need to take a moment to enjoy. Why not grab a coffee or an ice cream at one of the quaint little shops and relax in the surroundings of the central piazza. You can also enjoy old architecture such as the Bristol Colonnade, an old traditional bathhouse imported from England in 1957 or the town hall.

2) Feel the sand on your feet at the Dwyryd Estuary
When you arrive at Portmeirion village, its both easy and difficult to imagine that behind all the Mediterranean splendour, there’s a stunning sandy beach! Wander along the private coastline of the Dwyryd Estuary; Portmeirion’s beach. Paddle in the sea and discover the many nooks and cranny’s of the hidden caves.


3) Share your respects at the pet cemetery
No, this isn’t a Steven King book; Portmeirion in North Wales has its pet cemetery. With a statue of a once-beloved dog at its helm, you can wander the graves of the pets that have been loved and lost over the years. As sombre as it is, the pet cemetery is a pleasant reminder of how much pets enrich our lives, and it’s a lovely tribute to them.

4) Play pirates on the stone boat Amis Reunis
Sir William Clough Ellis owned a houseboat that was stranded off the coast of Portmeirion Village. While some boats were salvaged and used for decoration in the Italian village, their remains can still be seen at low tide across the shore. The stone boat replica makes a great tribute to the original Amis Reunis, and both adults and kids will enjoy exploring it.

5) Dine or pamper yourself at Castell Deudraeth
Castell Deudraeth is a brilliant place to visit while in Portmeirion in North Wales. Grab a delicious meal or afternoon tea from the restaurant or pamper yourself with one of the many spa treatments available. The gothic looking Castell Deudraeth is a 4-star hotel, so you can even choose to stay here. Conveniently located next to the car park, it’s worth stopping by before you head home.

6) Take one of the Garden Trails
One of the most enjoyable things to do in Portmeirion, North Wales, is to be able to lose yourself within the gardens, surrounded by colourful flora and fauna. Stumble across magnificent ancient trees and cherry blossoms in spring and inhale the flowery scents of nature.
Find the Japanese pagodas, the Chinese lake, ponds and hidden caves. The woodland areas and gardens are a must-do that you can easily spend hours in.


7) Take in your surroundings at the Gwylea view point
This viewpoint is the most stunning spot in Portmeirion in North Wales. Grab one of the benches and enjoy the views of the coast below and the welsh countrywide and mountainside right ahead. Follow the signs from the pet cemetery and ghost garden to the viewpoint to see the picturesque scenery of Portmeirion beach.

8) Grab a drink at the Hotel Portmeirion
The early Victorian Hotel Portmeirion is a superb place to grab a drink or a meal and watch the world pass by. Take a seat on the outdoor terrace bar and gaze at the sweeping views of the Welsh mountains. If it’s a little chilly, even clear igloos will keep you cosy and warm.

9) Relax by the pool overlooking the Portmeirion coast
If the weather is warm, make sure you’ve packed a swimsuit as there is a pool and sun loungers you can enjoy in unique surroundings. Just a short walk from the Portmeirion hotel, you can unwind at the outdoor pool while overlooking the coast below. It is certainly not your typical pool view.

10) Explore the coastal trails
Just like the garden route, some trails take you along the coast of Portmeirion Village. The best time to do this is when the tide is slightly out as it exposes the rocks and crags you can step across, which makes some great photos.
There are also lovely gardens you will walk through and small pieces of colourful architecture. The Y Goleudy lighthouse, in particular, is a sight that stands out. If this walk wasn’t interesting enough already, it also takes you towards the Hotel Portmeirion. What a way to round off a memorable day.


Things to Do in Portmeirion in North Wales, Final Thoughts
The Italian village in Wales nestled into Snowdonia national park certainly makes for a luxurious escape. It can be relaxing, but there are also many adventurous things to do in Portmeirion. I took the opportunity to visit here after a ride on the world’s fastest zip line, Penrhyn zip wire and the quarry karts. Not only does it refresh and recharge your batteries, it does feel like you’ve been transported to a whole new country.
If you’re an eco-conscious traveller, make sure to check these tips to make your UK staycation more eco-friendly.
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This looks absolutely fantastic… such an amazing place set in the Bally’s of Snowdonia…. Think I would love to see the pet cemetery something about it that will make me happy and sad at the same time. Stunning photos as well
What a beautiful little town. I’ll definitely be hitting those coastal trails and checking out the Gwylea viewpoint if I make there one day!
Wooooow what an amazing area! The village really does look like Italy (I mean, apart from the Castle – that looks totally Welsh to me!) The beautiful coast line and the garden trails just make this look even better! I can totally see why you loved it.
Wow, this looks like a beautiful place to visit. I have been to Wales a few times but have never heard of Portmeirion! It’s definitely added to my list as it looks idyllic