Three Cliffs Bay

Three Cliffs Bay has no road access and no facilities on the beach itself — which is precisely why it retains the wild, away-from-it-all atmosphere that makes it so special. The beach is enclosed on one side by the three distinctive limestone pinnacles that give it its name, and on the other by the tidal mouth of the Pennard Pill river. At low tide the sands open generously; at high tide the river crossing can be knee- to thigh-deep.

Above the dunes, the romantic ruins of Pennard Castle look out across the bay. Rock climbing and abseiling are also popular on the limestone faces.

There are four main walking routes to the beach, all involving a footpath descent:

• From Parkmill village — park at Three Cliffs Holiday Park; 15-minute walk through woodland to the stepping stones crossing.
• From Southgate — National Trust car park; clifftop path with sea views down to the western end of the beach (approx 20 minutes).
• From Penmaen — footpath via dunes and the eastern headland.

Don't miss crossing via the stepping stones over the Pennard Pill — a lovely moment on the walk in.

• Oxwich Bay: approximately 10-minute drive west — good facilities and a great contrast to Three Cliffs' wild feel.
• Pennard Castle: 10-minute walk uphill from the beach — free to access, great views.
• Tor Bay: accessible on foot east of Three Cliffs along the coastal path.
• Parkmill village: Gower Heritage Centre, pub and café.