A slice of the Italian Riviera on the Welsh coast — and a brilliant destination at the end of a Snowdonia ride.
Designed by architect Sir Clough Williams-Ellis between 1925 and 1975, Portmeirion is a fantastical village of pastel buildings, domes, colonnades and subtropical gardens overlooking the Dwyryd estuary near Porthmadog. Famous as the set of the cult 1960s series The Prisoner, it makes a memorable contrast to a day of mountain riding.
What to see
The Central Piazza and its colourful, whimsical architecture
Woodland and coastal gardens (the Gwyllt) with estuary views
Cafes, restaurants and shops within the village
Regular events, and the famous pottery
Riding there
Portmeirion sits just off the A487 near Minffordd, between Porthmadog and Penrhyndeudraeth. It’s an ideal finish to a run through Snowdonia via the Llanberis Pass, Beddgelert and the Aberglaslyn Pass. There’s an admission charge to enter the village.
Motorcycle parking is available on site. As it’s a paid attraction with set opening hours, check the current times and prices before you set off.
