Top 10 dog walks in Swansea and Gower for high energy dogs

Swansea and the Gower Peninsula are packed with big horizon walks, woodland trails, and beaches that give energetic dogs the space to move and explore. Before you head out, remember that beach dog rules can change seasonally. In Swansea, from 1 May to 30 September, dogs are only allowed on specific dog friendly beaches, so always check signage when you arrive.

Below are ten brilliant options for high energy dogs, with a mix of on lead and off lead potential depending on the time of year, how busy it is, and your dog’s recall.

1. Rhossili Bay

A huge open beach with epic views, great for a long leg stretch and sniffing adventures. Rhossili is widely recognised as dog friendly year round, making it a reliable choice whatever the season.

Best for: off lead running when quiet, long on lead training walks when busy
Top tip: bring water and be mindful of tides and wildlife

2. Three Cliffs Bay

One of Gower’s most iconic walks, with sand, dunes, and routes from Parkmill that add extra distance for energetic dogs. It is also often listed as dog friendly year round, but do still follow local signage and good manners around other beach users.

Best for: varied terrain, building fitness, recall practice away from crowds
Top tip: dunes can be steep, so pace yourself and take breaks

3. Clyne Valley Woods

A convenient Swansea classic for woodland mileage, shaded paths, and a good change of scene for dogs that love to explore. There are circular routes with manageable elevation, which is ideal when you want steady exercise without too much road walking.

Best for: on lead training, calm focus work, sniff heavy enrichment
Top tip: take a long line if your dog needs freedom but recall is a work in progress

4. Penllergare Valley Woods

Woodland trails, waterfalls, and plenty of natural interest for busy brains. A great muddy adventure in cooler months and a strong option when you want something different from the beach.

Best for: mental stimulation, steady pace endurance walks
Top tip: expect mud, pack a towel and rinse kit for the car

5. Lliw Reservoir

A more peaceful, scenic option with longer circular walks that suit dogs who need consistent movement without heavy crowds. Great for stamina building and calmer, structured outings.

Best for: long steady mileage, lead manners, calmer adventure days
Top tip: practise check ins and loose lead walking on the more open stretches

6. Oxwich Bay and dunes

A long sandy beach backed by dunes, giving you space for distance walking and plenty of sniffing. Like many local beaches, access rules can vary by season, so check on arrival and keep your dog under control around families and wildlife.

Best for: high energy dogs that love sand runs and big open views
Top tip: early mornings are best for space and calmer off lead play

7. Port Eynon and Horton beach walk

A brilliant long coastal stretch with options to extend your route. Be aware that some areas have seasonal restrictions, with certain sections remaining dog friendly, so plan your walk based on time of year and signage.

Best for: longer beach mileage, training in a stimulating environment
Top tip: keep treats handy for recall around distractions

8. Limeslade to Pwll Du coastal path

A proper headland workout with climbs, views, and a rewarding bay at the end. This is a great choice for dogs that need a more challenging route than flat beach walking.

Best for: fitness building, energetic dogs that thrive on hills
Top tip: keep a lead ready near cliff edges and around other walkers

9. Llanmadoc and Llangennith hill routes

If your dog needs a real leg burner, the hill walks around this area deliver. AllTrails lists routes here with some of the bigger elevation gains in the Gower National Landscape, which can be ideal for dogs that need to work.

Best for: off the beaten track adventure, hill stamina
Top tip: stick to paths and keep dogs close during lambing season

10. Clyne Gardens and nearby trails

A lovely option to combine gardens, woodland edges, and nearby routes, especially if you want variety and a structured walk where training focus matters.

Best for: on lead training, socialisation at a distance, calmer decompression walks
Top tip: go at quieter times if your dog gets over excited around people and dogs

On lead and off lead guidance for high energy dogs

Even in the best walking spots, off lead freedom only works when it is safe and respectful. If your dog’s recall is not reliable yet, use a long line to give them room while keeping everyone safe. For beaches, always follow local council rules and seasonal restrictions.

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If you would like your dog to enjoy these kinds of adventures regularly, with brain training and structured enrichment built in, Pip’s Adventure Walks offers longer adventure walks designed for high energy dogs across Swansea and Gower.