- Overview
- Trip Outline
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
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This 7 day walking trip is the perfect way to explore the charms of Scotland's Fife Coast Path - one of the country's best long-distance trails. Highlights include the East Wemyss Caves with their ancient Pictish carvings, Dysart Harbour’s 7th-century heritage, and St Andrews, the “Home of Golf,” where the famous Old Course and the ruins of the medieval castle provide unforgettable landmarks. The route also features stretches of woodland trails, clifftop paths, and nature reserves teeming with birdlife. Along the way, indulge in fresh local seafood, including Anstruther’s world renowned fish and chips, and immerse yourself in the warm hospitality of locally owned accommodations.
The walk concludes with a memorable crossing of the Tay Bridge on foot, offering sweeping views of the River Tay and the city of Dundee, where the vibrant waterfront and cultural attractions await.
A wonderful trip for lovers of coastal walking and Scottish heritage, the Fife Coastal Path promises an unforgettable adventure through this historic and picturesque region.
Trip Highlights:
· Explore Fife’s historic fishing villages, harbours, and medieval landmarks.
· Stroll along award-winning sandy beaches and dramatic clifftop paths.
· Discover St Andrews, with its iconic golf course, castle, and beaches.
· Spot seals, dolphins, and seabirds along the stunning coastline.
· Visit the ancient Pictish-carved East Wemyss Caves.
· Walk through Tentsmuir Forest and the Eden Estuary Nature Reserve.
· Savour Anstruther’s award-winning fish and chips by the harbour.
Itineraries
Day 1
Arrival in Burntisland
Arrive in Burntisland, a historic coastal town just 35 minutes by train from Edinburgh. Overlooking the Firth of Forth, Burntisland is known for its sandy beach, scenic promenade and fascinating maritime heritage. Take a stroll along the waterfront, visit Burntisland Parish Church - the first new church built in Scotland after the Reformation - or explore the ruins of Rossend Castle. The town's vibrant high street offers cafes and shops, making it a great place to start your journey along the Fife Coast Path.
Day 2
Burntisland to Leven
From Pettycur Bay you follow the path past Kinghorn to Kirkcaldy, where you'll discover Ravenscraig Castle perched dramatically above the coast. In Dysart, take time to explore the Harbourmaster's House and enjoy the quaint alleys of this former royal burgh. Continuing along the coast to West Wemyss with its historic charm and onto the East Wemyss Caves, famous for their ancient Pictish carvings. End the day in the bustling sea side town of Leven where you will spend two nights. Leven is known for its sandy beach, scenic promenade, and fascinating maritime heritage. Take a stroll along the waterfront and explore the town’s vibrant high street offers cafés and shops, making it a great place to start your journey along the Fife Coastal Path.
Day 3
Leven to Elie
From Leven you continue along Largo Bay’s sandy beaches and through Lower Largo, birthplace of Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe. Continue to the dramatic cliffs at Earlsferry and Shell Bay Beach. Before arriving in the picturesque village of Elie, where the charming harbour and Elie Ness Lighthouse await.
Due to limited accommodation in Elie, you will return to Leven for the night with transfers included. You will be picked up from The Ship Inn and taken back to your accommodation in Leven.
Day 4
Elie to Crail
You will be picked up from your accommodation and taken to The Ship Inn in Elie to continue your walk.
The route takes you through the quaint fishing village of St Monans, which once pumped seawater into salt pans, and enjoy the working harbour of Pittenweem. Stop in Anstruther, renowned for its award-winning fish and chips, or take a boat trip to the Isle of May Nature Reserve to see puffins and seals. Continue through rolling fields and a salmon fisherman’s bothy to the charming harbour village of Crail, where you can sample fresh lobster straight from the boats.
Day 5
Crail to St Andrews
This challenging day takes you to Fife Ness, the eastern most point of the peninsula, then past a string of world-class golf courses and the pristine beach at Kingsbarns. The rugged coastal path offers dramatic views, with cliffs at Kinkell Braes providing a breathtaking approach to St Andrews. Explore the medieval ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, the historic castle, and the iconic Old Course before settling in for the evening.
Day 6
St Andrews to Dundee
Your final day on the coastal path departs from St Andrews along a cycle path to Guardbridge, where the Eden Estuary Nature Reserve provides a haven for birdlife. For a shorter walk, an optional taxi transfer can reduce this section by 10km (not included), bypassing the tarmac stretch to Guardbridge or Leuchars. From Leuchars, home to the Norman-era St Athernase Church, follow the boardwalks through the peaceful trails of Tentsmuir Forest. Continue past Tayport along the Tay Estuary to Newport-on-Tay, where the path concludes with a stunning walk across the Tay Bridge. Enjoy sweeping views of the river as you arrive in Dundee, with its vibrant waterfront and the iconic V&A Dundee design museum waiting to be explored.
Day 7
Departure
Arrangements end after breakfast. Enjoy the rest of your day in Dundee!
6 nights' accommodation (small hotels, lodges, pubs, and B&Bs)
6 breakfasts
One piece of luggage per person transferred between accommodations, not exceeding 20kg
24-hour telephone assistance
Digital information pack including Navigational App, maps and route notes
Travel to the start point and from the finish point
Travel insurance (required)
Lunches, dinners, snacks and drinks
Entrance fees and attractions
Personal equipment
Personal expenses, including laundry and phone calls
Unscheduled transfers required during the trip
Excess luggage charges
Single room or solo traveller supplements, where applicable
Guiding services – this is a self-guided holiday
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