The Gower Peninsula

The entire Gower Peninsula, which was the first area in Britain to be designated an "area of outstanding natural beauty". The scenery is stunning, and extends from sandy beaches, hidden coves and lush country-side. In addition, (including the ruins of Swansea Castle) there are seven medieval castles to explore.

The Gower Peninsula sits to the west of Swansea and has around 14 sandy beaches to discover, some more difficult to find than others. You can get to the Gower from Mumbles or Dunvant or Upper Killay and work your way around the beaches or just go to one a day. Nearest to Mumbles is Limeslade, Langland and Caswell - these beaches are beautiful but popular as there is the Langland golf course on the cliff above Langland and Caswell. Its lovely to take a walk around the cliff path and over the rocks as long as the tide isn't coming in.

Further afield are Port Eynon, Horton, and Oxwich Bay and Three Cliffs - this one is special but takes about 15-20 minutes walking downhill through sand dunes to get too, the views are magnificent and its well worth the walk. Right at the tip of the peninsula are Rhossili and Llangennith immense beaches where the surf is the best in the Gower.

Rhossili Bay and Worm's Head is absolutely breathtaking at sunset, and the vista is widely considered to be one of Europe's most spectacular coastal scenes. An excellent National Trust gift shop marks the beginning of the cliff top path, while the picturesque village of Rhossili provides an ideal setting for enjoying cream teas in the summer or for relaxing and taking a contemplative stroll at any time of the year. In addition, the conditions at Rhossili are excellent for handgliding and surfing; historians may also be interested to note that there is evidence of a stone-age settlement here.

Three Cliffs Bay - a great place to take a stroll through woods and watch the wild ponies galloping on the beach. The ruins of Pennard Castle guard the area from a hill to the left (when facing the sea). Note, however that the strong undercurrent at this bay make it unsuitable for swimming. The beach is entered from a path across from Shepard's village store and cafe.

The wide sandy bays of Langland, Caswell and Oxwich are perfect for swimming or just spending a family day on the beach. In addition, the bays are connected by cliff paths so hikers can enjoy spectacular walks throughout the year. At Oxwich there is a small castle and Saxon church.

The public toilets are conveniently situated between the car park and the beach. There is also a shop selling souvenirs and buckets and spades etc.

Facilities include:

• Shops
• Toilets
• Places to eat & drink
• Car park (private fee charged)