Located on the southwestern tip of the Gower Peninsula on the south coast of Wales, the small remote village and community of Rhossili lies quietly atop the towering limestone cliffs.
Although only small in size, Rhossili is a big draw card during the summer months for holiday makers to the Gower area, particularly for its vast golden sand beach that stretches for miles, spectacular coastal scenery and walks, and the well known Worm’s Head – a tidal island rising out of the ocean like some giant mythical sea-serpent.
If visiting during the peak summer season, be sure to get there early in order to secure a parking spot before the crowds arrive. It is worth parking at St Mary’s church car park and from there begin with a wander up the side of Rhossili Down – the towering hill rising up behind the beach and the highest point in the Gower. From here you will get great panoramic views across the beach, the village and Worm’s Head. On the way down take the path leading onto the beach for a stroll, and if it happens to be low tide you’ll find the wreck of the Helvetia poking up through the sand.
The walk to Worm’s Head itself starts at the car park of the National Trust office, heading past the Worm’s Head Hotel on your right and through the gate. The landscape here is quite stunning. Wander along the top of the cliffs to experience the thrill of being up high, with great views back towards the beach and Rhossili Down. When you reach the Old Coastguard Station carefully check the tide times as to when you are able to walk out onto Worm’s Head, as the route is only exposed for two and a half hours before and after low tide. Follow the path down onto the rocky causeway, and carefully navigate your way around the rock pools onto the main headland. Take the track heading up the short steep climb to the top of the ‘Inner Head’ and along. From here your trek will be rewarded with fantastic views of the headland as well as back along the coastline of Rhossili. Looking down the side of the cliffs you’re likely to spot a seal or two amongst the rocks, and plenty of bird life. Further ahead you’ll see the Devil’s Bridge, an impressive natural rock bridge leading to the ‘Outer Head’ if you have the time to continue your wander before making it back before the tide cuts you off.
Oh, and once you’re back on the mainland don’t forget to stop by the spectacular fields of sunflowers on the right for another great instagram pic – some half a million of them! (Note they are at their best in August).
tails of a wanderer 