Swansea

Three jagged limestone spires pierce the Atlantic horizon like ancient sentinels - the Three Cliffs Bay area of Gower Peninsula delivers some of Wales' most dramatic coastal scenery. This is proper wild country, where Harding's Down rolls into clifftop paths that snake between viewpoints with names like Deborah's Overhang and The Knave. Each offers a different perspective on the coastline's raw beauty.

Rock climbers flock to Yellow Buttress, while walkers tend to favour the gentler route from Horses Cliff down to the beach. The viewpoints here aren't your typical tourist spots - Third Sister and First Sister demand a bit of effort to reach, but the payoff is cracking views across Oxwich Bay. Fox Hole Slade Cave and Upper Blackhole Cave add an element of exploration for the more adventurous.

Getting here from Swansea city centre takes about 30 minutes by car along the A4067. The roads narrow as you approach the coast, typical Gower Peninsula style. Parking can be tight in summer - arrive early or prepare for a longer walk from the main car parks.

Staying at one of the nearby parks like Hillend Camping Park or Gower Holiday Village puts you right in the heart of this outdoor playground. You're close enough to nip back for lunch between coastal walks, yet far enough from the crowds that descend on the main Swansea beaches. The Gower Peninsula rewards those who base themselves here rather than day-tripping from the city.