Gower Peninsula, South Wales Attractions
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The Mumbles form the gateway to the Gower Peninsula, a limestone massif of great scenic beauty. The charming Welsh south coast has been classified as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and is a nature reserve which, apart from the towns and villages, is only accessible on foot. There are a number of beaches, while Langland and Caswell Bay are popular sandy beaches, particularly popular among surfers.The peninsula boasts a mild oceanic climate and good soil on its chalky clay deposits and is thus ideal for agriculture. This is reflected by, among other things, Rhossili's early potatoes and the growing of a variety of crops in the market gardens around Bishopston and Killay. The formerly independent villages of Newton, Killay and Mumbles have been absorbed into Swansea to form a connected area of settlement.
Oxwich, Wales
Oxwich has a 3mi/5km-long sandy beach. There is a nature trail along the coast which offers magnificent views.
Oxwich Castle
Oxwich Castle overlooks the sea from the Gower Peninsula. It is a Tudor house that was built in the 16th century by Sir Rice Mansel. His son, Sir Edward, added onto it in the then fashionable Elizabethan style.
Port Eynon
Port Eynon is a popular resort with a sandy beach and dunes and the additional interest of the Culver Hole, a cave once occupied by prehistoric man.
Rhossili Visitor Centre
To the west of Port Eynon begins beautiful Mewslade Bay, bordered by Rhossili Bay with its magnificent sandy beach. Rhossili, a small seaside resort, is picturesquely situated amid the Rhossili Downs, which climb to a height of 633ft/193m. Worm's Head, a small isolated ridge of rock, can be reached on foot at low tide (about 1mi/1.6km from Rhossili), as can Burry Holms (3mi/5km north), a small island near the resort of Llangennith.
Penclawdd
Penclawdd (Welsh for "mussel") lies east of Whiteford Point. Here, as at Llansaint, Kidwelly, Ferryside and Llanstephan, there are extensive mussel banks.
Gower - Parc-le-Breos Riding Centre
The center offers instruction as well as treks through beautiful local hills, moors, beaches and forests. Weekend or week-long packages are available, with or without accommodation. Unaccompanied children over age 10 are welcome.
