Less than a half hour drive from Swansea city centre is Pwll Du Bay, a stunning secret beach on Wales' Gower Peninsula. It is only accessible on foot. Once you've parked in Bishopston, Penard, or Caswell, there are three scenic routes you can take to reach this peaceful coastal retreat.
The road from Penard or from Bishopston Valley takes you along this beautiful stretch of the Welsh coast. Pwll Dy Bay is just a 20-minute walk from the most suitable secluded Brandy Cove from Caswell. These hidden gems are perfect for peaceful beach trips and are great for those trying to escape from the crowds of more popular beaches in the area.
Pwll du is translated into “Blackpool”, but it is a world away from touristy cities in northern England, and this quiet bay is a popular choice for birdwatchers and those looking for peace and tranquility.
The name actually comes from the deep pool behind the beach. There, the river is filtered through the pebbles before reaching the sea.
The peaceful nature of this beach hides a rather tragic history from its waves, and Pwll du Bay was the site of a shipwreck in 1760.
The nearby grave, marked by a limestone stone ring, is believed to be the place where those who died in the shipwreck are buried.
The vessel, known as Caesar, was a naval vessel used to find and recruit sailors. After being trapped in a storm, they collided with Cape and Pwll DU.
Many of the naval officers on board survived, but it is estimated that around 90 men trapped under the deck died in the shipwreck.