Swansea distractions Welcome ones, that is. Wales' newest museum (all interactive and high tech) next to Wales' oldest museum (dinosaur bones and Egyptian mummies). Then there's the LC, a brand new water park complete with indoor surfing, whilst Plantasia brings the rainforest to town.
perfect day
a bit of theatre
For some, that would mean shopping, lunch and the odd cappuccino. In addition to big names and boutiques we have Swansea Market, good for almost anything – but great for local produce including fresh Gower veg and succulent seafood (try the local favourite; cockles and laverbread).
Our theatre's Grand, and not just in name; opera, drama, West End shows and comedy pack in the punters. And if you're a fan of Dylan Thomas, you're in luck, we have a unique exhibition celebrating his life and work – you can also time travel to 1914 at his birthplace on Cwmdonkin Drive.
from blue to green This Waterfront City makes the most of its location. Five miles of coast, from prom to SA1 (stylish restaurants and accommodation); an award winning Marina in between. With a green backdrop of parks, including colourful Clyne Gardens.
Mumbles something to shout about
Perhaps it's the lovely little art and craft galleries or trend hitting boutiques? It could be the fantastic restaurants and coffee shops, or probably the medieval Castle and Victorian pier? I know, it's beautiful Bracelet Bay, the yachts bobbing in the bay, the little cobbled streets winding down to the prom, the white we all scream for … lighthouse at the top of Mumbles Head... Ice Cream. Mumbles has the best. In four Welsh Italian ice cream parlours (yes! Four!) No sweet tooth? No problem. Mumbles has a reputation for fine-dining and local produce is always on the menu. visitswanseabay.com
Gower
outdoor oscars
room to roam
Roll out the red carpet for 14 beach awards, and we have one to cater for every mood or activity. The quiet, secluded beach, the family fun beach and the wide, five mile long beach for surfing, kite flying or just building sandcastles. But this captivating coastline also has towering cliffs, rocky pools (bring your net) and an estuary teeming with birds (great for twitchers).
Whether you're exploring the City, mooching around Mumbles or rambling round Gower; there's a room that's right for you. Boutique hotels, elegant restaurants with rooms, quality budget hotels, cosy B&B's and a host of self catering cottages, apartments, and even camping for the more adventurous. Turn the page for how to find and book accommodation.
area of outstanding natural beauty No one would argue with that. In fact, the Gower Peninsula was the first to be designated an AONB in the whole of the UK. The National Trust protects much of this precious landscape and its wildlife. So this area of outstanding views, like Worm's Head and Three Cliffs Bay, stay safe forever.
action points Water. We've lots of it. And some of our most exhilarating sports involve being in it or on it. Surfing, windsurfing, kitesurfing, canoeing, waterskiing. You can do it all here. Or explore Gower on horseback. Experience the adrenalin rush of galloping through the surf. Swap four legs for two wheels and get on your bike – or if you don't have one, hire it when you get here.
nature walks On Gower you're right in the thick of it, nature, that is. As well as breathtaking vistas around every bend, there are seabirds, wildflowers and even wild ponies. Bring binoculars and a camera as well as your walking boots. visitswanseabay.com
This is just a taster... ... for lots more information on Swansea Bay, Mumbles and Gower including events, where to stay and what to see and do go to:
visitswanseabay.com Or contact our friendly Tourist Information Centre team who can help you find and book your accommodation. 01792 468321 tourism@swansea.gov.uk If you need help in placing your conference or meeting in Swansea Bay or would like to bring a group or coach tour to the area then contact our Conference and Group Travel Service for free advice and assistance in organising your event or visit. 01792 635208 tonia.thomas@swansea.gov.uk
Photography credits: Crown Copyright 2009/ Jeff Towns, Dylans Bookstore Collection, Swansea, dylans.com
This publication is available in alternative formats. Contact the Tourist Information Centre for further details, 01792 468321. City and County of Swansea Dinas a Sir Abertawe