Pantheon

Climbing up from Swansea's city centre, this elevated viewpoint rewards visitors with sweeping panoramas across Swansea Bay and the Bristol Channel. The spot takes its name from the classical monument that crowns the hill, though don't expect Roman grandeur - this is a much more modest affair built in the 19th century.

From here, you can pick out the curve of Swansea Bay stretching towards Mumbles, with the industrial heritage of the docks spread below. On clear days, the view extends across to North Devon's coastline. It's a proper workout getting up here on foot, but the vantage point makes sense of Swansea's geography in a way that street-level wandering never could.

Walkers and photographers will get the most from this spot, particularly around sunset when the light catches the water beautifully. Families might find the climb a bit much with small children, and there's not much to hold interest once you've taken in the view. Twenty minutes is plenty unless you're settling in for a picnic.

If you're staying at Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park or any of the Gower sites like Nicholaston Farm, it makes a decent half-day trip combined with exploring Swansea's waterfront. The maritime quarter below is well worth a wander after you've earned your view from above.