If you’ve ever seen photos of a pastel-colored, fairy tale village perched above a tranquil estuary in North Wales and wondered, “Where is that magical place?”—it’s Portmeirion.
I recently had the chance to stay overnight at this quirky architectural masterpiece, which feels equal parts Italian Riviera resort, woodland retreat, and 1960s cult TV set. While I’ve already shared how I booked the trip with points and what it was like to stay in the village, this post is for the people who just want to see the village.
I walked the quiet pathways at golden hour, explored the hidden woodland trails in the early morning mist, and tracked down all the iconic spots from The Prisoner. So grab a cup of tea and join me for an image-heavy tour of Portmeirion Village at its most peaceful and photogenic.
Evening in the Village
As the day visitors drift away and the light softens, Portmeirion transforms into something truly magical, the perfect time to wander with a camera (or phone) in hand.
The colorful architecture set against the rocky outcrops and steep steps makes the evening walk special.
The landlocked Amis Reunis boat, one of Portmeirion’s whimsical features.
The calm waters of the estuary at dusk.
The buildings and bell tower silhouetted against the deepening twilight.
The peaceful village gardens and fountain, bathed in golden hour light.
The loggia is illuminated at night with dramatic shadows and bright highlights.
Night view of the bell tower, with Portmeirion’s quirky architecture glowing under the stars.
Morning Hike Through the Estate
After breakfast, I headed out along the estuary and up into the woods, taking in some of the most peaceful parts of the property before the rain rolled in.
=A Napoleonic statue near the lighthouse marks the start of the trail.
Looking back at the village from the estuary path.
Low tide leaves an endless sandy plain stretching to the horizon.
Helpful wayfinding deep in the woods.
A quiet, winding path through the trees.
The Chinese (or Japanese) Lake, a serene spot with bright red floating bridges.
Returning to the village, with the colorful rooftops set against the backdrop of Snowdonia.
The Dog Cemetery
I hadn’t originally planned to visit, but curiosity drew me toward the Dog Cemetery. It’s a surprisingly emotional and beautiful little spot tucked deep in the woods. You can tell it has been lovingly maintained for decades.
A statue of a faithful dog stands watch over the resting place of canine companions.
Newer markers show that the tradition continues to this day.
A weathered headstone with a touching inscription:
“My dear, dear dog gone before / To that unknown and silent shore / Shall we not meet as heretofore / Some summer morning“
A cluster of headstones for beloved dogs, including Woofy, Biggles, and Softy.
The Prisoner Landmarks
The Prisoner TV series (1967–68) starring Patrick McGoohan turned Portmeirion into the surreal “Village.” Fans still make pilgrimages, and the village fully embraces its pop culture legacy.
The No. 6 Shop sells merchandise, books, and memorabilia.
Replica of an iconic cape from the show.
Props and collectibles from The Prisoner, including checkered sunglasses and toy taxis.
Then I went around to spot classic filming locations:
McGoohan’s private cottage during filming.
The hotel’s retro-modern spherical chairs, which felt straight out of the show.
The Green Dome, Number Two’s “residence” in the series.
The official plaque honoring Portmeirion’s legacy as “The Village.”
My selfie at a replica of the life-sized chessboard used in one of the show’s most famous scenes.
No. 6 looking out over the village.
A bronze bust of Patrick McGoohan in tribute to the show’s creator and star.
Final Thoughts
Whether you visit Portmeirion as an architecture fan, a National Trust enthusiast, a nature walker, or a Prisoner devotee, staying overnight lets you experience the village in a way day-trippers never can. It was magical to have these walks and views nearly all to myself.
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