I walked Mewslade and Fall Bay on a breezy winter afternoon, when the skies were clear but the air carried a sharp chill. The drive down toward Rhossili took me through winding country roads, and parking was the first challenge — a small layby near Middleton with just enough space left for me to squeeze in. From there, it was boots on, jacket zipped, and a steady start down the narrow track toward the coast.
The path dropped quickly into a deep-sided valley, hedgerows and brambles closing in on either side. Underfoot, the ground was a mix of stone and mud, slick in places where water had run down after recent rain. Waterproof boots were essential, and even then it felt like a matter of choosing the least slippery line. A few other walkers passed by, their dogs running ahead, tails mud-soaked to the tip.
As the path widened, the sound of the sea became clear, and soon the view opened onto Mewslade Bay. At low tide, the beach stretched broad and flat, the sand firm and good underfoot. Jagged cliffs framed either side, giving the cove a hidden, enclosed feel.
From Mewslade, I followed the coast path westward. The climb out of the bay was short but steep, the kind that makes you lean forward and push with the legs. At the top, the reward was a wide view back across the cove, the cliffs curving round in a rugged sweep. The path was narrow, hugging the edge, with the wind pressing hard enough to keep me cautious.
Heading further on, Fall Bay came into sight. Smaller than Mewslade, it had a quiet character, waves rolling steadily into the cove. I scrambled partway down to the rocks, careful on the loose stone, before deciding the footing wasn’t worth pressing further. Instead, I took the higher path to enjoy the panorama.
Standing above Fall Bay, the sun was beginning to sink lower, casting a pale golden light across the cliffs. The sea below was restless, throwing white spray against the rocks. It was the sort of view that looked harsh and beautiful at once, and the chill in the wind reminded me not to stand still for too long.
Looping back inland, I followed a farm track that wound steadily upward. The mud here was thick, clinging to the boots, making each step heavy. A group of walkers ahead joked about the state of their trousers, and I could see why — mine weren’t much better by the time I reached the lane again.
Back at the car, the light was fading fast. I packed away my gear and drove into Rhossili village for a hot drink at the pub, glad to warm up after the exposed coast path.
Mewslade and Fall Bay aren’t long walks, but they’re full of character. Steep approaches, muddy tracks, and exposed clifftops keep you working, while the hidden coves deliver views that feel far away from the crowds. It’s the kind of route that rewards effort with atmosphere — rugged, quiet, and distinctly Gower.
– **Distance**: Around 3 miles (loop).
– **Weather**: Clear skies, cold winter air, strong coastal wind.
– **Terrain**: Muddy lanes, sandy cove, narrow cliff paths.
– **Parking**: Limited spaces near Middleton.
– **Gear**: Waterproof boots, windproof jacket, gloves in winter.
Coast Swansea
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