Some of Britain’s most beautiful beaches can be found on the coast of the Gower Peninsula, just a few miles west of Swansea. This was the first area in Britain to be designated as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and the sandy bays on the south coast are truly special. The coast is dotted with small resorts like Langland, Oxwich and Rhossli, which are great for families as well as those who enjoy surfing and other watersports. The north coast is flatter and quieter with nature reserves set in the marshlands and the famous cocklebeds of Panclawdd. For the history lover, this small peninsula boasts no fewer than six medieval castles and there are many Neolithic menhirs, or standing stones, to be seen here too.