Three Cliffs

It's all about the view with this one. Three Cliffs lays claim to Wales's most iconic view, beloved of its tourist board and part of the UK's first Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Since the 1950s the site has sat right on top of this stunning chunk of the Gower peninsula, allowing campers to roll out of their tent and be hit by a picture perfect sight. If you want to camp cliff side you'll be on a slight slope, with the flatter areas away from the edge suited to the caravans and campervans you'll grudgingly share the view with. Whilst the site gets busy in summer, booking is critical, once you're staring out to sea with the world behind you the morning queue for the facilities will seem a distant memory.

These days it runs as Three Cliffs Bay Holiday Park, and it has smartened up a good deal since our first visit: the pitches now come with electric hookup, water and their own fire pit and picnic bench, the modern shower blocks are kept spotless, and there's a well-stocked shop and café serving food through the day. It is dog friendly too, with a dedicated dog shower, and the staff have a real reputation for going out of their way. All of that comes at a price, this is firmly at the premium end now, so go in expecting a polished holiday-park feel rather than a rough-and-ready field.

The farm-shop-fresh basics are still there, and groceries and restaurants remain a short walk away in Parkmill. Be careful crossing the golf course as you make your way towards the sea; a couple of golfers used to dozy campers wandering into the path of their balls gave us some light hearted banter as we meandered around the course. The River Ilston meanders across the floodplain below the site, with some handy stepping stones allowing you to cross and keep your feet dry. The ruined Pennard Castle is a few minutes' stroll away and has a history of hosting both druids and ravers, a little detail that completes the magical feel of this truly beautiful slice of South Wales.