Cefn Bryn, Ancient ridge at Gower Peninsula, Wales
Cefn Bryn is a sandstone ridge that stretches roughly 5 kilometers across the Gower Peninsula, rising to about 188 meters above sea level. The formation offers views across the surrounding landscape and coastlines from multiple vantage points along its length.
The ridge formed from Old Red Sandstone, a rock layer deposited long before the surrounding limestone landscape took shape. Excavations near Arthur's Stone revealed that the area served ceremonial and burial purposes during the Bronze Age, with over sixty cairns constructed across the site.
Locals call this ridge the 'backbone of Gower' because of how distinctly it rises through the surrounding limestone landscape. The name reflects how people in the area view the formation's role in shaping their peninsula's character.
Multiple footpaths allow access to the ridge with informal parking at the summit and additional spaces in neighboring villages. Walking conditions are best in dry weather, as the paths can become slippery when wet.
Broad Pool, a protected freshwater reserve at the eastern approach to the ridge, supports rare aquatic plants, amphibians, dragonflies, and wetland birds. This wetland habitat offers a striking contrast to the dry heights of the ridge and provides refuge for specialized species.
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