Ellis, however, would probably never have envisioned such a thing, and seemed content to busy himself exploring even more architectural ideas. Chinese influenced statues adorn certain buildings, while the gothic style makes a brief return with a small burial-ground style castle. 

Further up in the hills, guests can visit Ellis's old home, the Plas Brondanw, with its large stone slabs and well kept gardens. Recently, the park owners have installed a log flume, winding through the trees and out over the pathways. Perhaps this is the sort of attraction Ellis would have enjoyed - giving visitors the opportunity to take in the wonderful views across the Village. The higgledy-piggledy roofs, blinding colours and odd geometry of Portmeirion really are a sight to behold. Sadly, much of the Portmeirion gardens have been smothered by a suspended monster, installed in a fit of madness by the park's last owner, Ellis's grandson. The beautifully kept lawns and monuments are now periodically subjected to overhead attacks from this sprawling mess of metal. This article would have loved to discuss the gardens further (especially Capability Brown's involvement in the landscaping), but the area is pretty much out of bounds. It's hoped that the park's current owner will be more prudent when making further such developments.

That, however, is the only indication of bad maintenance when considering Ellis's masterpiece. As guests return to the Piazza one last time, passing more Italianate architecture on the way, one can only imagine the creative vision Ellis must have had to bring about and complete such an audacious project. As a site of real architectural interest, Portmeirion remains one of Wales' most charming attractions. The current owners of the site are quite a secretive group, reported to have their own residency on site. Perhaps it would be possible to catch a glimpse of these living areas if one looked close enough, but you can be sure that the owners are staying true to the spirit in which Ellis constructed the Village. It's a rare occurrence that this writer is so charmed by a collection of buildings like this, as architecture can often be very sterile. Portmeirion Village, however, was a joy to visit, and I'm sure that any other prospective guests would feel likewise.

-mantis