We will travel to Portmeirion Village via Lake Bala and the Snowdonia National Park arriving at Portmeirion Village around lunchtime.  This scenic drive will allow us to appreciate the stunning beauty of this area.

 

Situated on a private peninsula overlooking stunning coastal scenery, the Italian Riviera meets rural Wales with a riot of colour and architectural styles at Portmeirion Village. Built by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion Village comprises of a cluster of colour-washed buildings around a central piazza, scenic surroundings and extensive woodlands, two hotels, historic cottages, gift shops and restaurants. The village was built over two phases, 1926 - 1939 and 1954 - 1976 by which time Clough was well into his 90s.

The concept of a tightly grouped coastal village had been envisaged by Clough Williams-Ellis years before he found the site, close to his own home in North Wales, on which he managed to realise his dream. Using an eco-friendly approach, he designed his architectural vision around a Mediterranean piazza. Endangered buildings and unwanted artefacts from all over the globe were transported and rebuilt to create a nest of loggias, grand porticoes and tiny terracotta-roofed houses, painted in bright colours. 

Take time to explore the white sandy beaches of the Dwyryd Estuary and discover hidden caves, gullies and a flurry of interesting plants and discover the impressive natural landscape surrounding Portmeirion. The subtropical forest, affectionately known as The Gwyllt (Wildwood in Welsh) features some of Britain's largest trees, secret gardens, a derelict castle and rare flowers. Explore the 70 acres of exotic woodlands with 19 miles of pathways which cut through forests, secret spaces and coastal coves.