Whiteford Burrows

Whiteford Burrows is a National Nature Reserve occupying the north-western tip of the Gower Peninsula, just beyond the village of Llanmadoc. Managed by the National Trust, this dramatic dune and pine plantation forms the heart of the wider Whiteford National Nature Reserve - a remote, unspoilt landscape of sand dunes, coastal woodland, salt marsh and one of Gower's quietest beaches. To the east lies the vast Llanrhidian Saltmarsh, stretching for miles along Gower's north coast, while Broughton Bay sits to the west. It's a rewarding destination for walkers, birdwatchers and nature lovers looking to escape the busier southern Gower coast.

At its western edge lies Whiteford Sands, a vast two-mile sweep of golden sand curving from Broughton Bay towards Whiteford Point. Out at the tip stands Whiteford Lighthouse, a striking cast-iron structure built in 1865 and now the only wave-swept cast-iron lighthouse still standing in the UK. It can be reached on foot at low tide, though the tide sweeps in quickly here, so checking tide times before setting out is essential.

The reserve is a haven for wildlife. Its mudflats, sands and salt marshes make it one of the most important wintering grounds in Wales for wading birds and wildfowl, with oystercatcher, knot and golden plover among the species regularly recorded - an internationally important feeding ground for coastal birds. The dunes support rare plants including fen orchid and dune gentian, while wild ponies can often be seen grazing the surrounding common. The mix of sheltered pine woodland, open dunes and estuary views makes it a favourite with ornithologists, botanists and photographers alike.

Reached via the hamlet of Cwm Ivy, the reserve sits on the Wales Coast Path and offers mostly level, family-friendly walking through the woods and dunes down to the beach - around a 15 to 20 minute stroll. There are no shops, cafés or toilets within the reserve itself, so it's worth bringing water and supplies, though the nearby Cwm Ivy Cafe & Crafts makes a welcome stop before or after a walk. Dogs are welcome year-round.

Parking at Whiteford Burrows

The nearest car park is the privately run Whiteford Beach car park (postcode SA3 1DJ), on the road through Cwm Ivy, a short distance beyond Llanmadoc (£4 for up to three hours, or £5 for the full day).  It's a walk of roughly 15 to 30 minutes through Cwm Ivy woods and the dunes to reach Whiteford Sands.