## English City Life Swapped for Rural Welsh Bliss: Mother Reveals Her Favourite Hidden Coastal Gem
A Welsh mother who swapped the hustle and bustle of city living in England for the tranquility of rural Wales says she’s rediscovered a coastal treasure that rivals any sun-soaked shoreline in the UK. Enfys Maloney, 40, left behind her home in Bedford in 2018 and now enjoys a dramatically different pace of life in the heart of Eryri (Snowdonia) National Park, with her family.
After purchasing a sprawling smallholding, Maloney and her husband Rick, along with their two young daughters, embraced the slower rhythms and broad vistas that define north-west Wales. The family’s journey away from the “predictable” city existence has fundamentally changed their relationship with nature and her homeland.
Reflecting on her decision, Maloney describes Eryri as unmatched: “There’s nowhere more beautiful in the world really. We have the beautiful coast, the beautiful beaches and the mountains are just breathtaking.” Though the region is a popular draw for visitors, she believes a particular location stands out but remains underappreciated even among seasoned travellers.
Maloney recommends Portmeirion, a singularly enchanting Italianate village nestled along the North Wales coast. Designed by her own great-grandfather, the visionary architect Clough Williams-Ellis, Portmeirion boasts a colourful palette of buildings, fanciful details and a unique harmony between architecture and nature. Its charm has not gone unnoticed internationally: it was recently named the world’s 13th most colourful place, surpassing more famous destinations in Spain and Portugal, and has been rated the UK’s third best coastal getaway by consumer group Which?.
The village’s appeal lies in both its aesthetic and practical offerings. Visitors can stay in a variety of accommodations: from the grandeur of a castle, to self-catering cottages equipped with hot tubs and sweeping views, or even within the heart of the vibrant village itself. Cafés, speciality shops, a spa, and fine dining complete the experience. “It’s just along the coast nestled between the sea and the mountains,” Maloney notes, highlighting not only the scenic location but the abundance of opportunities for relaxation and exploration.
Maloney suggests a tip for prospective visitors: booking a lunch at Castell Deudraeth, the local castle, provides complimentary entry to the village—an excellent value as the cost of lunch parities that of a standard admission ticket. She’s keen to emphasise that the location is ideal for both families and couples, with plenty on offer for children including woodland trails and the chance to see rare and remarkable trees. The village also features a Chinese lake with its own striking red bridge, adding to the site’s sense of discovery and cross-cultural character.
However, one practical note for dog-owners—Portmeirion is a dog-free zone. The village has considered visitors arriving by motorhome, with dedicated parking facilities available for campers and road-trippers hoping to explore the area.
Portmeirion’s versatility hasn’t just appealed to holidaymakers. Maloney herself uses the inspiring surroundings as a backdrop for business retreats, leveraging its unique charm to host training events for her company. The village’s ability to combine business and pleasure further enhances its reputation as a multi-faceted destination.
The enduring impact of Portmeirion’s creative vision can be felt by all who visit. Travel writer Portia Jones recently recounted her experience of staying overnight at the Portmeirion Hotel, reflecting, “It feels like each building has its own personality; some are playful, with bright facades and ornate details, while others are stately… This is honestly like nowhere you’ve ever seen before, it’s weird and wonderful and is bound to captivate even the most cynical of souls.”
For Enfys Maloney and others who’ve discovered—or rediscovered—this colourful haven, Portmeirion stands as proof that the UK’s coasts still hold some of Europe’s best-kept secrets. Whether you’re drawn to architecture, tranquillity, or an escape with a Mediterranean twist, the allure of this Welsh gem is undeniable.