Portmeirion Village, Minffordd, North Wales
Portmeirion is where North Wales meets the Italian Riviera. Perched between the majestic mountains of Snowdonia and overlooking the picturesque Dwyryd Estuary, this iconic fantasy Italianate village is a must for any Foodie Traveller.
Whether you’re having a day out at Portmeirion or staying overnight in the hotel, you can’t fail to fall under its magical spell. Its landscape and colourful, quirky architecture will take you on a thousand mile journey to the Amalfi Coast. Come here for a taste of Italy in Wales and you won’t be disappointed.
- Explore the fantasy village
- Enjoy Afternoon Tea on the terrace
- Stay at the Portmerion hotel
- Visit in September for Festival No.6
Spend a Day in the Welsh Mediterranean
Portmeirion village was designed and constructed by Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975. He said that he simply wanted to pay homage to the atmosphere and spirit of the Mediterranean although many have claimed that Portmeirion is, in fact, based on the Italian town of Portofino. Wander around its gardens, fairytale grottos and turrets and lose yourself in a fantasy world for the day.
Take Afternoon Tea on the Terrace
Foodie Travellers can indulge in Portmeiron’s culinary delights by taking Afternoon Tea at the hotel. It’s served on the terrace with its stunning view of the estuary (in winter you can snuggle up inside in front of a roaring fire). There’s also Castell Deudraeth, a beautiful Victorian mansion with slate floors, estuary views and a brasserie style menu.
Eat Pizza and Gelato
For a taste of Italy, try Caffi Glas (the Blue Café) where pizzas are cooked in an open pizza oven. Finish with a delicious home made gelato ice cream from Caffi’r Angel Ices, where they use traditional Italian methods and locally produced Welsh milk and cream.
Buy Portmeirion Ceramics
In the Cook Shop, you’ll see the traditional Portmeirion Botanic Garden pottery, commissioned in the 1960s, sitting next to the contemporary range designed by Sophie Conran. Her new blue and white collection is particularly lovely. Other iconic British brands such as Emma Bridgwater are displayed next to shiny Italian coffee machines.
Have Family Fun at Festival No. 6
Visit in September for this popular family festival described as ‘a banquet of music, arts and culture’ when Portmeirion comes alive. There’s a Welsh Produce Market, Michelin-star table banquets and street food stalls alongside its award-winning programme of music and cultural events.
Tips
- Do your Christmas shopping in December at Portmeirion’s Winter Food Festival
- Travel to Portmeirion on the Ffestiniog Railway alighting at Minffordd
Cook’s Tip
For a delicious and easy dessert, drizzle limoncello on to vanilla ice cream.
Where to Stay in North Wales
Plas Bodegroes
Lyn Peninsula, North Wales
Country house restaurant with rooms in an Area of Outstanding National Beauty just a mile from the sea.
Rooms from £99 a night.
Dogs
Unfortunately Portmeirion village has a no dogs policy with the exception of guide dogs of course. They say this is to protect their sensitive environment and the people who may be picnicking, walking or swimming there.
How to Find Portmeirion Village
Portmeirion Village, Minffordd, Penrhyndeudraeth, Gwynedd, LL48 6ER
Website: www.portmeirion-village.com
The Foodie Travel Guide
Sally is the founder and editor of The Foodie Travel Guide. She travels around the UK and beyond in search of the best foodie days out, tasting experiences and delicious places to stay. She loves a glass of English sparkling wine, afternoon tea with friends and escaping London for gastronomic adventures.