If you love coastal views, quiet walks, and little hidden gems, the Gower Peninsula in Wales is going to blow your mind. It’s not too crowded, and it’s packed with natural beauty. You’ll find wild beaches, tiny villages, and some of the best walking trails in the UK.
Let’s plan a relaxed but fun 3-day trip around Gower. Nothing too rushed, just the right mix of exploring and soaking it all in. Simple days. Good food. Fresh air. That kind of trip.
Day 1
Swansea to Rhossili: Start With the Best
Your Gower trip begins in Swansea. It’s the city closest to the peninsula and easy to reach by train or car. From here, it’s just a short drive to Gower. Try to leave early, especially if the sun’s out.
The first stop? Rhossili. Trust me, this place will set the bar high.
Rhossili Bay
Rhossili Bay is one of the best beaches in the UK. It stretches for miles and feels like a scene from a postcard. The sand is golden, the waves are steady, and the views are wild. Bring a camera. Or don’t. Just take it in.
There’s a clifftop walk that leads you to Worm’s Head. It’s a rocky headland that sticks out into the sea. It looks like a sleeping dragon. But here’s the catch—you can only walk out to it when the tide is low. There’s a short window, so check tide times before you go.
The walk itself is a little rocky and tricky in places, but it’s worth it. Standing at the end, with sea all around you, it feels like the edge of the world.
Lunch Idea
Head back to the village and grab lunch at The Bay Bistro. Big windows, great views, and good food. The fish and chips here hit the spot.
Sunset Spot
Stick around for sunset. Rhossili’s cliffs light up beautifully in the evening glow. If you’re staying nearby, you won’t want to rush off.
Where to Stay
You’ve got options here. There are cozy B&Bs in Rhossili and some farm cottages nearby. If you’re into camping, check out Hillend Campsite. It’s a simple site, close to the beach.
Day 2
Beaches, Walks & Welsh Charm
After breakfast, pack your bag and drive east along the coast. The roads are narrow, but they twist through green fields and stone walls. It feels like a movie.
Three Cliffs Bay
Next up is Three Cliffs Bay. This one is special. It’s not the easiest to reach—you’ll need to walk a bit—but that’s part of the magic.
Park near Parkmill and take the trail through woodland and sand dunes. You’ll come out at a sweeping bay with three jagged cliffs in the center. They rise like teeth from the sand.
You can walk down to the beach, explore the caves, or just sit and watch the tide roll in.
If you’re feeling adventurous, climb the nearby ruins of Pennard Castle. It sits on a hill overlooking the bay. Not many people come up here, so it’s peaceful. The castle’s mostly broken walls, but the view is unbeatable.
Oxwich Bay
After a slow wander at Three Cliffs, drive a bit further to Oxwich Bay. It’s a much bigger beach, easier to access, and perfect for swimming if the weather’s good.
This bay has everything—soft sand, calm water, and even some water sports. You can try kayaking or paddleboarding if that’s your thing.
Grab an ice cream or light bite from The Beach House Café or one of the kiosks near the car park.
Hidden Gem: Nicholaston Woods
If you like quiet walks, don’t skip Nicholaston Woods nearby. It’s a short trail through forested dunes that leads back down to Oxwich Beach. It’s not touristy, just trees, birds, and sea air.
Evening
Drive inland a bit to a small village like Reynoldston or Cefn Bryn. There are good pubs here like The King Arthur Hotel, which also has rooms. They serve hearty food, local ales, and there’s usually a fire going.
Have dinner here. Maybe some Welsh lamb or a pie. You’ve earned it after all that walking.
Day 3
Castles, Cliffs, and Cozy Corners
Your final day on Gower is a mix of history and slow living. No need to rush.
Weobley Castle
Start with a visit to Weobley Castle, near Llanrhidian. It’s not a huge place, but it sits right above the salt marshes with amazing views of the estuary.
You can walk around the old stone walls and look out over the tidal flats. It’s peaceful and rarely crowded.
The castle was once a rich family’s home. Now it feels like a secret lookout point.
Llanmadoc Hill
Not far from the castle is Llanmadoc Hill. It’s one of the best spots for a 360-degree view. Hike up the easy trail and take in the land, sea, and sky. It’s quiet here, with sheep grazing and wind sweeping the tall grass.
You can see all the way to Burry Holms island and Rhossili from up here.
Whiteford Sands
If you have time and energy left, go see Whiteford Sands. It’s a bit of a walk through forest and dunes, but it leads to a wild, open beach. There’s an old cast iron lighthouse standing at the far end, way out in the bay.
You might not see anyone else here. It’s that kind of beach.
End With a Pub
Head back inland and stop at The Britannia Inn in Llanmadoc. It’s a classic country pub with wooden beams and a laid-back feel. Grab lunch or an early dinner here before heading out.
Maybe order a Welsh rarebit or some fresh fish. Sit by the window and just enjoy the last bit of calm.
Travel Tips
- Gower roads are narrow. Drive slow, and be patient around bends.
- Pack hiking shoes. Even short trails can get muddy.
- Bring layers. Weather changes fast, even in summer.
- Always check tide times if you’re walking to Worm’s Head.
- Most places take card, but keep a little cash just in case.
- Respect nature. Gower is loved for its wild feel. Take any rubbish with you.
The Gower Peninsula isn’t flashy. It doesn’t shout. But if you give it your time and attention, it’ll stay with you for a long time. Three days might not be enough, but it’s a perfect start. Just don’t forget to breathe in that sea air every chance you get.
