Perched on a peninsula on the Snowdonia coast, Porthmadog borders the Llyn Peninsula and offers easy access to Snowdonia National Park. Porthmadog is also home to Victorian steam trains, shell-infused beaches and a nature reserve.

Things to do

Explore Portmeirion village, a private peninsula from Porthmadog proper. Surrounded by beaches and forests, the whimsical village is the setting for the cult television series “The Prisoner” and boasts colourful Heritage-listed seaside mansions and cottages. Take a guided tour of the village and purchase some famous Portmeirion pottery.

Hop aboard a steam-hauled train at the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway for a 1.5-hour journey along the coast and through Snowdonia National Park. About a 10-minute drive from Porthmadog lands you at Harlech Beach, where you can enjoy shelling, sunbathing and kite surfing.

On the northern end of the beach sits the Morfa Harlech Nature Reserve, home to protected plants and rare birds. Head south to Shell Island to find unique shells and spot leatherback turtles. Back in town, browse Welsh landscapes and watercolours at Rob Piercy Gallery or pick up vintage Welsh music at Cob Records.

Take a day trip to Tremadog, a tiny village located just off the main square in Porthmadog. You can dine on French-inspired Welsh cuisine at Y Sgwar or sample local specialties, such as Welsh lamb and seabass fillet. Top it off with local brews at Purple Moose.

Getting around

Buses and taxis provide transportation in Porthmadog, while bicycle hires include cruisers, mountain bikes and e-bikes. You can rent a car at Anglesey Airport, about 45 kilometres away.