Oxwich National Nature Reserve, Swansea
Oxwich National Nature Reserve lies along the south coast of Gower, approximately 11 miles from Swansea. There are beaches, sand dunes, lakes, woodlands, cliffs, saltwater marshes, and a number of other diverse habitats within the reserve - it's unusual in the UK to find so many different habitats within such a small area.
This long sandy beach in Oxwich Bay is one of the most popular beaches in Gower, especially during the summer. Oxwich Bay has twice been named the UK Beach of the Year. Visitors are drawn to the beach, but there is also an interesting wildlife oasis inland waiting to be explored.
A wildlife oasis can be found just inland from the beautiful beach, in the dunes. During the summer, a wide range of chalk-loving wildflowers bloom here, and you can enjoy insects buzzing everywhere.
There is a car park and main access to Oxwich National Nature Reserve owned by the Penrice Estate. Oxwich beach is owned by the estate and visitors can use its toilets and two shops to purchase refreshments, beach equipment, and beach toys. In addition to the car park, there is a restaurant on the beach.
Walking Routes
There are two circular walking trails which are marked to guide the walkers about the route. On both routes, you pass through dunes where ponies graze all year.
Beach and Dunes Walk- The route is 3 miles (4.8kms). Near the car park entrance is the kiosk that starts this trail. This walk follows the Wales Coast Path through sand dunes – you can find here orchids and wildflowers in the summer. A sandy beach leads it back to the starting point.
Nicholaston Woods Walk- A small layby at the woods' entrance leads to the trail, which can also be accessed by following the first portion of the Beach and Dunes Walk. It is a 4kms long route. In spring, this tranquil old woodland is carpeted with flowers with stunning views of Oxwich Bay. On the steepest parts, the path has uneven surfaces and steps.
Other trails- Within the reserve, you can find the bird hide by looking for the Whitestones panel. To reach a kissing gate, walk about 100m and cross the road. Through another kissing gate, you can access the bird hide via the boardwalk that crosses freshwater marshes and reedbeds. The Wales Coast Path goes through Nicholaston Woods and the dunes.
Things to check out at the reserve
The diversity of Oxwich's habitats makes it home to a variety of wildlife species, including some interesting plants and animals.
It's best to visit the dunes in late May and June if you're looking for wild orchids. Coastal shells blow inland, providing orchids chalky soil which helps them to grow. You can find dune gentian and other unique plants in the slacks (the damp hollows between the dunes).
Various species of butterflies and insects flourish in the reserve with the support of wildflowers. The small blue butterfly can also be seen here. The beachcomber beetle and the hairy dragonfly can be spotted in the marshy area.
Oxwich's lakes and marsh provide a safe place for birdlife. In addition to providing overwintering habitat for wildfowl, the lakes also provide shelter for migrants, such as bitterns. Whitestone bird hide, accessed by a boardwalk that crosses freshwater marsh and reedbeds, is a great place to watch ducks, water rails and little grebes.
How to reach
Just outside the Oxwich village, Oxwich National Nature Reserve is 11 miles west of Swansea. The village is situated in Swansea county. From Swansea, take the A4118 toward Gower and Port Eynon. Continue past Penmaen and Nicholaston and turn left next to a ruin, down a minor road signposted Oxwich and Slade. You will see the large car park on your left.
In addition to the train station in Gowerton, there is a bus service from Swansea bus station to this location.
