What’s in this guide
By Lucianna Biggs
The Gower Peninsula is a wild and rugged slice of Wales, where sweeping beaches, towering cliffs, and rolling countryside set the stage for unforgettable adventures. Whether you’re hiking out to Worm’s Head with the chance to spot seals, scrambling across the stepping stones at Three Cliffs Bay, or catching waves at Llangennith, there’s no shortage of outdoor thrills. Scenic coastal drives lead to hidden gems like Blue Pool Bay and Culver Hole, while welcoming villages serve up hearty pub lunches and the famous Joe’s ice cream. From luxury camping at Three Cliffs Bay to cozy cabins with sea views, Gower is a place to slow down, soak in the views, and embrace the elements.
Epic Coastal Adventures
From the dramatic cliffs of Worm’s Head to the golden sands of Rhossili Bay, Gower is packed with breathtaking hikes, secret coves, and sweeping ocean views. Whether you’re trekking to Blue Pool Bay or crossing the stepping stones at Three Cliffs Bay, every turn reveals another stunning landscape.
Wild and Remote Beauty
Gower was the UK’s first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty for a reason. It’s home to windswept dunes, rugged headlands, and wild ponies roaming free. Whether you’re exploring Whiteford Lighthouse, discovering hidden caves, or walking through Penllergare Valley Woods, the peninsula feels wonderfully untouched.
Surf, Seafood & Sunset
Gower is a dream for outdoor lovers, with top surf spots like Llangennith, incredible seafood, and some of the best sunsets in the UK. Grab a beachside breakfast at The Lookout, enjoy a pub lunch at The Britannia, and round off the day watching the sun dip over the Atlantic.
Worm’s Head Hike: One of the most thrilling walks in Wales, this tidal causeway adventure offers stunning coastal views and a chance to spot seals basking on the rocks. Just be sure to check tide times before heading out!
Three Cliffs Bay: A breathtaking mix of dramatic cliffs, golden sands, and winding estuaries. Cross the iconic stepping stones, explore sea caves, and soak in one of Gower’s most photogenic landscapes.
Rhossili Bay: A vast, sweeping beach backed by rolling hills and wildflower meadows. Walk along the cliffs, play in the waves, or visit the seasonal sunflower fields for a pop of color against the Atlantic backdrop.
Getting there (and around)
By Car:
The best way to explore the Gower Peninsula is by car, giving you the freedom to reach hidden beaches, coastal hikes, and remote beauty spots at your own pace. Scenic drives take you through rolling countryside and along winding coastal roads, with plenty of spots to stop and soak in the views.
By Train:
There are no direct train services to Gower, but Swansea is the nearest major station. From there, you’ll need to continue your journey by car, taxi, or bus to reach key locations like Rhossili, Oxwich Bay, and Three Cliffs Bay.
By Bicycle:
Gower’s quiet country lanes and coastal trails make it a great spot for cycling. While some areas have steep climbs, routes like the ride to Llangennith or along the northern estuary provide stunning views and a sense of adventure.
By Bus:
Local bus services run from Swansea to main Gower destinations, including Rhossili and Oxwich Bay. However, services can be infrequent, so planning ahead is essential.
By Foot:
Many of Gower’s best sight – —like Worm’s Head, Three Cliffs Bay, and Whiteford Lighthouse – are best explored on foot. Well-marked coastal and countryside trails make it easy to access breathtaking views and secluded beaches.
A weekend is enough to hit Gower’s highlights – hike to Worm’s Head, explore Three Cliffs Bay, and relax on Rhossili’s golden sands. For a more immersive adventure, 3–5 days allows time for surf lessons, hidden beaches like Blue Pool Bay, and scenic coastal drives to Oxwich and Mumbles. If you love walking, you could easily spend a week tackling the stunning coastal trails.
When to go
Gower is beautiful year-round, but the best time to visit depends on what you’re after. Summer (June–August) brings warm weather, ideal for beach days and coastal hikes, though it’s also the busiest season. Spring (March–May) offers fewer crowds, blooming wildflowers, and lively wildlife. Autumn (September–November) is perfect for crisp coastal walks and stunning sunsets, while winter (December–February) is wild and dramatic—great for stormy sea views, quieter trails, and cozy pub stops.
Start your adventure with breakfast at The Lookout, a scenic café overlooking the ocean. Sip on fresh coffee and enjoy a hearty morning meal as you take in the coastal views, setting yourself up for the day ahead.
Once you’re ready to go, head to Worm’s Head for a thrilling hike across the tidal causeway. With dramatic cliffs and the chance to spot seals basking on the rocks, it’s a must-do for any Gower adventure—just be sure to check tide times before setting off.
Next, make your way to Rhossili Bay, one of the most stunning beaches in Wales. Whether you take a dip in the sea, stroll along the golden sands, or simply soak up the scenery, this vast and windswept stretch of coast is unforgettable.
From here, drive around the coast to Oxwich Bay, a peaceful spot perfect for a scenic walk or a moment to take in the fresh sea air. Then, stop for lunch at The Britannia, a traditional pub with an original bread oven and a spacious garden where the kids can run free while you enjoy a relaxed meal.
For a spectacular afternoon, pick up a picnic from The Little Village Bakery and head to Three Cliffs Bay. Take the dramatic walk down to the beach, skipping across the stepping stones, exploring hidden sea caves, and crabbing in the rock pools as the tide shifts around you.
To end the day on a high, walk up to Pennard Castle, perched on the clifftop with one of the best sunset views in South Wales. As the sky glows in golden hues over the sweeping bay below, it’s the perfect way to round off an unforgettable 24 hours in Gower.
If you have extra time to explore, start with a hike to Worm’s Head, one of the most breathtaking walks in Wales. Cross the tidal causeway, keeping an eye out for seals basking on the rocks – just be sure to check tide times before setting off.
In summer, don’t miss the Rhossili Sunflowers, a stunning field of golden blooms set against the dramatic coastline, perfect for a scenic stroll and striking photos.
For a more off-the-beaten-path adventure, take on the Whiteford Lighthouse & Nature Reserve loop, a six-mile walk through sweeping dunes and salt marshes, leading to the only cast-iron lighthouse in the UK that stands out in the tidal estuary.
Spend an afternoon in The Mumbles, a charming seaside town known for its coastal views, independent shops, and the famous Joe’s Ice Cream. Grab a scoop and wander along the promenade to soak in the relaxed atmosphere.
If you’re feeling adventurous, book a surf lesson with WSF Surf School in Llangennith. This wide, sandy beach is one of the best places in Wales for learning to ride the waves, whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to sharpen your skills.
For a peaceful retreat, explore Penllergare Valley Woods, where Japanese-inspired gardens, hidden waterfalls, and winding woodland trails offer a tranquil escape. Take your time wandering through this enchanting landscape, a perfect contrast to Gower’s rugged coastal beauty.
Check out our favorite spots on the Canvas and Cub map
Belan Bluebell Woods:
A magical woodland retreat with seasonal bluebells, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature.
Seren Bach Campsite:
A small, family-friendly campsite with stunning mountain views, perfect for stargazing and relaxation.
Fforest Fields:
A back-to-basics camping experience with an onsite lake, rolling hills, and endless space to explore.
Cwm Sticky Dingle:
A cosy retreat featuring yurts and huts, set in a secluded valley perfect for a peaceful escape.
Cwtch Woodland Cabin, Penlan:
A charming off-grid cabin nestled in the woods, ideal for a quiet nature-filled getaway.
Toad & Snail Glamping:
A quirky glamping experience with unique stays, offering a blend of comfort and adventure in the heart of nature.
The Britannia (Gower):
A traditional pub with an original bread oven, serving hearty meals with a spacious garden where kids can run around.
King Arthur Hotel (Reynoldston):
A cozy country pub with a warm atmosphere, delicious home-cooked food, and plenty of outdoor space for families to enjoy.
Beaufort Arms (Kittle):
A welcoming pub with a beer garden, a children’s play area, and a great selection of classic pub meals for all ages.
The Lookout (Gower):
A scenic café overlooking the ocean, perfect for breakfast and coffee with stunning coastal views.
The Little Village Bakery (Gower):
A charming bakery, ideal for grabbing a fresh picnic to take to the beach.
Joe’s Ice Cream (The Mumbles):
A legendary Welsh ice cream shop, serving up its famous scoops – a must-visit when in The Mumbles.
Gower is a place where wild beauty meets adventure, from sweeping beaches and rugged cliffs to hidden coves and quiet woodlands. Whether you’re hiking to Worm’s Head, exploring Three Cliffs Bay, or catching waves at Llangennith, every corner of the peninsula offers something unforgettable. With cozy coastal cafés, traditional pubs, and breathtaking sunset spots, it’s a destination that invites you to slow down, explore, and embrace the elements. However long you stay, Gower’s untamed charm will leave you wanting more.
