I’ve always been drawn to the stunning coastlines of Wales, but the Rhossili and Worm’s Head Circular Walk truly takes the cake (or should I say Welsh cake?).
On a sunny Saturday morning, with just the right amount of wind to make my hair do its best impression of a bird’s nest, I set out on what promised to be a day of breathtaking views and a touch of adventure.
Arriving at the Rhossili National Trust car park, I was met with ample space, though I recommend arriving early in peak season—this is one of the Gower Peninsula’s most popular walks for good reason. The facilities were clean, and a café nearby offered the essential pre-walk fuel: a strong cup of tea and a scone that disappeared embarrassingly fast. With my boots laced and a light jacket on, I was ready to tackle the 9-kilometre loop.
The walk started with a gentle climb up the path from Rhossili village. From here, the view opens up to one of the most spectacular scenes I’ve ever witnessed: the golden sweep of Rhossili Bay. It was the kind of sight that makes you want to take a hundred photos, even though you know they’ll never quite do it justice. The bay stretched endlessly, with the rolling waves and clusters of surfers braving the chilly waters below.
Reaching the ridge leading to Worm’s Head felt like stepping into a different world. The terrain turned rockier, and the path narrowed, making me feel a little like an explorer on a quest (cue dramatic soundtrack). At low tide, this tidal island becomes accessible, and if the tide times align with your walk, the scramble to cross to Worm’s Head is both exhilarating and mildly heart-stopping.
I must confess, halfway across the causeway, I remembered the words of a fellow walker from my hike in Dorset—“Mind your step, or the sea might mind it for you!” It’s essential to check those tide times, or you’ll be joining the local seals for a swim.
The path winds along the rugged cliffs, showcasing the Gower’s wild side. It is here that I spotted nesting seabirds darting in and out of crevices and heard the occasional bleat of a grazing sheep, as if cheering me on. The view from Worm’s Head back to Rhossili is spectacular. You can see the coast stretch out like a long ribbon, with the waves curling in a hypnotic pattern. I stood for a while, caught up in the beauty of it all, feeling both insignificant and wildly content.
The walk circles back inland, offering a change of pace and scenery. The path is relatively well-marked, though a sharp eye is needed for those tricky junctions that have you debating whether to go left or right. Spoiler: the answer is usually whichever looks less muddy (though mud seems to have a way of finding you).
Memories of my Lake District hikes surfaced as I navigated a particularly boggy section. I chuckled to myself, recalling the time I lost a boot to a deceptive puddle near Buttermere—a story that still earns me exaggerated eye-rolls from my walking buddies.
Back in Rhossili, the end of the route felt like a warm embrace. The café I’d seen earlier was now bustling, and the sound of conversation mixed with the clinking of cups was welcoming. After treating myself to a well-earned slice of bara brith (I deserved it!), I spent a few minutes chatting with other walkers. There’s something about a shared trail that brings people together; tales of blisters and stunning views are a universal language among hikers.
The weather that day was as ideal as a Welsh forecast could promise—blue skies, a light breeze, and only the occasional gust strong enough to make me clutch my hat. The walk itself was moderate, with a few challenging inclines and rocky sections near Worm’s Head. Navigation was straightforward thanks to clear signs and paths well-trodden by countless boots.
The Rhossili and Worm’s Head Circular Walk is a must for anyone who loves the sea, a bit of a challenge, and views that make you pause to appreciate life. Just be sure to pack your camera, double-check tide times, and bring an appetite for the café at the end—you’ll need it.
If you’re looking for a walk that mixes drama, peace, and a good dose of coastal charm, this one’s for you.
