Death of the Helvetica

The coastline of the Gower Peninsula presents dramatic and visible evidence of climate change - marking the southern limit of the Last Glacial Maximum, till plasters limestone, in parts forming solifluction terraces. The coastline is dotted with caves that are rich in Quaternary flora and fauna, including the famous Red Lady of Paviland, the oldest known ceremonial burial in Western Europe. Worms Head (pictured) is the most spectacular remnant of a peneplain in the region. The shipwrecked Helvetica shipwreck (1887) is now permanently buried in the beach.