The Best Hotels to Book in and Around Portmeirion, Wales

With its stunning Italian-style buildings, Portmeirion is one of the best places to visit in North Wales
With its stunning Italian-style buildings, Portmeirion is one of the best places to visit in North Wales | © Howard Litherland / Alamy Stock Photo
Lucie Grace

One of Wales’ best-loved attractions, the model village Portmeirion is visited by over 200,000 visitors a year. There are a whole host of excellent hotels in the nearby area, bookable on Culture Trip.

On the banks of the estuary beneath Snowdon, in the spectacular North Wales valley of Snowdonia, sits the very unusual village of Portmeirion. A small slice of the Italian Riviera was transported to the rugged Welsh countryside in 1926 by architect Clough Williams-Ellis, who rescued segments of buildings from across the continent to add to his village until the mid-1970s. The local hotel scene comprises pubs, castles and period properties, all guaranteed to greet visitors with Welsh warmth and hospitality – plus some unexpected, Italianate flair.

1. Hotel Portmeirion & Castell Deudraeth

Hotel, Luxury

Hotel Portmeirion & Castell Deudraeth
Courtesy of Hotel Portmeirion and Castell Deudraeth / Booking.com

These two delightful, four-star hotels are within the village of Portmeirion itself, so a stay in either property comes with free entry to the sight included – a lovely perk. Castell Deudraeth is a Victorian neo-gothic castle with fantastic surrounding gardens, and Hotel Portmeirion is a history lover’s dream, fitted out with Victorian and art deco features. A heated outdoor swimming pool invites guests from either property for a dip throughout the warmer months.

2. The Oakeley Arms Hotel

Hotel

The Oakeley Arms Hotel
Courtesy of The Oakeley Arms Hotel / Expedia

This charming, listed building was constructed in the 18th century – but its foundations go back hundreds of years further. The area was developed during the age of slate mining that spread across this region of Wales from the Roman period onwards. The current owners took over in 2003 and have lovingly restored this historically rich property back to its former glory, presenting it chock-full of period features and Welsh charm. They also offer amazing food, all locally sourced and seasonal, which takes you on a journey through the richness of Welsh cuisine. The management can also arrange a massage and reiki therapist to visit you, plus guided walks and hikes, if you’re staying in the area a while longer.

4. Caerwylan Hotel

Hotel

Caerwylan Hotel
Courtesy of Caerwylan Hotel / Expedia

This Victorian seaside property is perched on the fantastic esplanade in Criccieth, with the 13th-century goliath, Castle Criccieth, in its sights. The heritage hotel may have a century or two under its belt, but the inside has been completely refurbished with smart modern interiors. The 24 individually designed rooms are cosy and modern, and many have stunning sea views as you gaze out across the Cardigan Bay. In-house restaurant and bar Tonnau is sure to please, serving sumptuous steaks as well as a few surprises on the menu.

5. The Lion Hotel

Hotel

The Lion Hotel
Courtesy of The Lion Hotel / Expedia

The Lion is a sizable 18th-century inn that has been run by the same family for three generations, in the unspoilt seaside town of Criccieth. There may be 34 rooms in this property but it’s a home away from home, offering cosiness and warmth as a priority. The hotel also boasts superb views of Castle Criccieth and the hills of Snowdonia, and offers Welsh breakfasts served daily in Llewelyn’s, the spacious on-site dining space.

6. Castle Cottage Inn

Hotel

Castle Cottage Inn
Courtesy of Castle Cottage Inn / Expedia

This charming heritage property has its origins in the 16th century, when it was a Welsh gin house. The inn has recently undergone a high-end refurbishment, now offering seven luxury bedrooms. They all have respectfully preserved period features such as wood-beamed ceilings, and most of them boast serene countryside views of the Snowdonia hillside. A hearty breakfast is included in your stay – and it’s all just a 20-minute drive from Portmeirion.

7. Aberdunant Hall

Luxury

Aberdunant Hall
Courtesy of Aberdunant Hall / Expedia

This Victorian manor is located within an upmarket holiday park, amid beautiful gardens that brush against the local woodlands. The hotel offers a range of boutique rooms of varying sizes, but if it’s the height of luxury you’re after, request the room with the glossed-wood, four-poster bed. All rooms have nice touches of antique furniture though, while adopting contemporary comforts. The bistro and restaurant cater for vegan and gluten-free diners, and there’s a sleek bar area on the outdoor terrace for sunset drinks.

8. Gwynle Boutique B&B

Bed and Breakfast

Gwynle Boutique B&B
Courtesy of Gwynle Boutique B and B / Expedia

This super-cute accommodation is both quirky and entirely charming – just what you’d hope for in a classic British bed and breakfast. Based in scenic Criccieth, the property has five bedrooms, each themed around gemstones such as aquamarine, jade and amethyst. The dining room and sitting room are brimming with antique furniture, selected by the owners – a mother and daughter team, whose hospitality and local knowledge can’t be beaten.

Looking for somewhere different to stay? Book into one of the best hotels near neighbouring Snowdon. Or opt instead for one of the top hotels in Wales where you can reconnect with nature. If walking is your thing, you may want to try some of the best hiking trails in Snowdonia. For more Welsh inspiration, check out the most beautiful towns and villages in Wales you might not have heard of.

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