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At the Westernmost point of the Gower Peninsula lies Rhossili, a lonely village often shrouded in mists and rain. Rhossili is historically significant, since it was here, at the western extremity of the Gower Peninsula, too remote (electricity arrived here in 1957) and impoverished for the English to bother about, that the Southern Welsh language was able to survive into the modern era.

The village of Rhossili, electricity arrived in 1957.

For me, Rhossili's main attraction is its trailhead for the renowned walk to Worm's Head. Moving over the easy roadway and then over lush, level grass, there is nothing to distract us from the beauty of the moment. We are soon viewing Rhossili's famous beach.

Rhossili Beach, just North of the village

Rhossili Beach, Rhossili Down and the most beautiful farmstead I've ever seen

This beach stretches for 3 miles, and with its strong surf, is popular with the surfing crowd. In the image of the beach (above left) there is a pair of dots just visible in the sand. This is the remains of the sailing barque Helvetia, which drove onto this beach one terrible night in November, 1887. In the left centre, the island, Burry Holms, is visible in the distance.

Sheep grazing on the lush grass atop the cliff

The view to the South from Rhossili Point

The view to the North from Rhossili Point

The hike is easy till one reaches the brink, where a tricky slide down a slick mud bank fulfills its promise to be a real test upon return. The hike continues over a treacherous tidal causeway of jumbled rock, covered with barnacles, that is uncovered for only a few hours, twice a day. Although I missed the tide, and could not get out to Worm's Head, I found my rainy walk very enjoyable, but would have really appreciated a walking stick, for it's additional stability. The views were inspiring, and the hikers I encountered were all really enjoying the day. ...text and images - L. Nevard

Lonely Rhossili and the Walk to Worm's Head