OK, it's rather grand for a beer garden - but if there is a more peaceful and beautiful spot to sip your after-dinner drink or while away a long afternoon, I've yet to find it. Even though The Village (yes, the one from 60s TV hit The Prisoner) is a major tourist spot, its artfully artless design creates tiny oases of quiet and country-house comfort. When the sun shines (and it does, often) Portmeirion's secluded mountain setting with its forests and riverside beaches feels more like Italy than Wales, and is irresistibly photogenic. If it's cold, there's a beautiful bar and restaurant in the hotel. Perfect white sands, deep green forests, gardens to rival any in Britain, unique settings, a luxurious interior and great food and drink - why would anyone try to escape?
Portmeirion, Gwynedd, LL48 6ER, Wales
01766 770000
www.portmeirion-village.com
Nearest stations: Minffordd is a 20-minute stroll up a tree-lined lane; Porthmadog is less than ten minutes away by taxi.
Google map: tinyurl.com/3a2jdwj
Carregfelen is a wonderful 14th century manor house situated on a private country estate, only 1 1/2 miles from the beach. Absolute tranquility and peace - even private fishing if required!
www.dwe.com/wales
Tel: 01768 898071
Send your feedback or queries to been.there@guardian.co.uk
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Porthmadog basics
- Population:
- 4187
- Currency:
- Pound (£)
- Time zone:
- GMT
- Dialling code:
- 44 (0) 1766