Portmeirion

One of my favorite places to stay while traveling is Portmeirion in North Wales.Used as the "Village " in the TV seiries "The Prisoner" it is actually a hotel. Built by Sir Clough Williams Ellis the main hotel , group of cottages and shops ,are truely magic .

Williams-Ellis built Portmeirion from 1925 to 1975 on his own private peninsula on the coast of Snowdonia to show that "the developement of a naturally beautiful site need not lead to its defilement."

The Village, which has several shops and restaurants,is surroundedby the Gwylt subtropical gardens and woodlands and miles of sandy beaches.

I learned of Portmeirion whie viewing "The Prisoner,"starring Patric McGoohan, which was filmed in the 1960s with the hotel and village portraying the Prison. It is actually a wonderful place that creates the feeling of Portofino Italy.

Portmeirion is also open to day visitors, but there is nothing quite like being a hotel guest.In the late afternoon as the day visitors begin to leave ,this magic place becomes your own private,tranquil wonderland! I hope to return soon!