Harding's Down

Standing at 199 metres above the Gower Peninsula, this modest summit offers some of the finest coastal views in South Wales without the crowds that plague Rhossili Cliffs. The walk up from Llanrhidian village is gentle enough for families with older children, though the final push across the common can get boggy after rain. From the top, you'll see the entire sweep of the Burry Inlet stretching towards Llanelli, with the Brecon Beacons rising in the distance on clear days. The real treat is watching the tide race across the vast mudflats below - it's quite something when it's coming in fast. Walkers will appreciate that this connects to several footpaths crossing the northern Gower, making it a proper day out rather than just a quick climb. Families staying at nearby parks like Hillend Camping or Gower Farm Touring will find it's an easy morning expedition, though bring proper boots as the paths can be muddy. The summit itself is unmarked and unremarkable - just a grassy mound really - but the 360-degree views more than compensate. Allow two hours for the round trip from Llanrhidian, or make it part of a longer coastal walk. It's free, always open, and infinitely better than fighting for parking at Rhossili.