Just a few miles further on is an even more tranquil spot - the Italianate village of Portmeirion, arguably the Gwynedd Coast's most famous attraction. Designed by renowned Welsh architect Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion was the setting for the 60s TV series 'The Prisoner' and fits perfectly into its beautiful natural setting on the banks of the Dwyfor Estuary overlooking the Rhinog mountains. Williams-Ellis built the village between 1925 and 1975. He wanted to show that 'the development of a naturally beautiful site need not lead to its defilement'. Any visitor to Portmeirion will agree that he demonstrates this admirably. It blends perfectly with its surroundings.
 Abersoch, Harlech, Barmouth and Aberdyfi are all delightful coastal towns. Harlech has its magnificent castle, while the others are sleepy seaside towns with an unspoilt and old-fashioned air. Porth Dinllaen is a beautiful beach near Nefyn, which is only peaceful because of a single historical quirk. In the nineteenth century it went head-to-head with Holyhead for the honour of hosting the Irish ferry service. It lost. The loss was bad for local employment prospects, but excellent for the local landscape. The area remains marginal, though, out on the western fringe, many miles from major population centres. As a result, tourism is very important. So next time you are in North Wales, use the new road links to explore that little bit further to the beautiful Gwynedd coast.
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