Three Cliffs

Limestone arches rise from golden sand like nature's own cathedral, with Three Cliffs Bay delivering one of Wales' most photographed coastal scenes. The viewpoint sits atop the Gower Peninsula's most famous beach, where three dramatic rock formations pierce the sky against a backdrop of rolling dunes and turquoise water.

Families with older children will love the adventure of reaching this spot. The walk down from Southgate village takes about 20 minutes through sheep-dotted fields, though the return climb will test your legs properly. Photographers flock here for sunrise and sunset shots, and they're onto something - the light transforms those limestone pillars into something almost magical.

Timing matters enormously. Low tide reveals the full sweep of sand and makes crossing Pennard Pill stream straightforward, while high tide can cut off sections of the beach entirely. Summer weekends see crowds that rather spoil the wild feel, so early mornings or off-season visits work best.

The bay sits just west of Swansea on the Gower Peninsula, making it an easy day trip from any of the nearby holiday parks. Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park practically has it on the doorstep, while Nicholaston Farm offers a more rural base less than a mile away. Well worth the walk, though don't expect facilities - this is proper wild coastline.