Make the most of the longer days and extra sunlight to discover the magic of Scotland's coastal beauty this spring and summer. Breathe in fresh sea air and embrace the timeless charm of Scotland's shores, explore an abundance of picturesque villages, take in dramatic cliffs and get ready to reset by the serene sparkling waters.

Take inspiration and live the 'Coastal Grandmother Aesthetic' in Scotland – a viral trend born from Tik Tok and encapsulated by the likes of Anne Hathaway. The trend features a wardrobe full of floaty white linen clothing, savouring exceptionally good food and embracing the simple pleasures of life by the coast.

Find our suggestions below for activities to revitalise the senses, appreciate local craftsmanship and to head home feeling refreshed, revitalized, and inspired:

 

Vitamin Sea - Roam Endless Coastlines

Scotland is blessed with jaw-dropping trails and an extensive network of waymarked paths and routes to suit all abilities. Choose to revel in Scotland's beauty with a dedicated walking holiday, an afternoon amble or opt for a coastal road trip:

 

• The Kingdom of Fife

Step away from the fast pace of day-to-day life and take on the breathtaking Fife Coastal Path, a 116-mile-long route which can be easily accessed by public transport - with regular buses running hourly connecting to St Andrews and Edinburgh. Rest tired legs at Spindrift Guesthouse and enjoy a well-earned, award-winning fish supper at Anstruther Fish Bar. Those looking for a shorter walk can take advantage  of the new Levenmouth rail link (opening 2nd June) which stops off in the beautiful seaside town, Leven, and is part of the Fife Coastal path.

Alternatively, explore the newly launched Fife 191 driving route, spanning from Culross in the West to Lindores in the North to Kingsbarns on the East Coast, and take in all that Fife is renowned for, including award-winning beaches, rolling countryside, pretty villages and bustling towns. Learn about Fife's heritage at one of Fife's fantastic museums, or have a round of golf on some world-famous courses.

 

• Berwickshire Coastal Path

Stretching 19 miles from Cockburnspath down to Berwick-upon-Tweed, the Berwickshire Coastal Path takes in dramatic clifftops, rounds St Abb's Head - a National Nature Reserve renowned for its birdlife, to reach the quaint fishing village of St Abbs. Walk through sandy beaches en route to the town of Eyemouth before the final stage.  Get up close to local wildlife and enjoy the coast from a different perspective with a In Our Nature boat tour. Those looking to be immersed in culture & arts should be sure to visit during the Fringe by the Sea Festival in August, boasting a range of family friendly events, activities and entertainment.

 

• The Loch Lomond & Cowal Way

Located in Argyll and known as 'Scotland in 57 miles' the Loch Lomond & Cowal Way is less than one hour from Glasgow city centre, offering beautiful coastlines, dramatic scenery, engaging heritage, abundant wildlife, and very friendly communities along the way. Stop by SEA LIFE Loch Lomond for a chance to meet sharks, rays and mischievous otter trio, Lily, Pickle and Cub.  Alternatively, those looking to get their creativity flowing can get their hands mucky at a pottery wheel taster session with Sea Drift Pottery, in Argyll, inspired by the nearby Cowal peninsula.

 

Coastal Craftsmanship: Meet the Makers Behind the Legends

Meet skilled artisans to delve into traditional crafting methods and be transported through centuries-old traditions. Participate in a hands-on workshop or craft a bespoke souvenir at one of the following locations:

 

• Embark on an authentic Harris Tweed experience with HEB360 and discover the craftsmanship behind the iconic Harris Tweed fabric. This guided tour through the Outer Hebrides will venture through picture perfect locations as well as provide an insider's look into the working mill, where tweeds are sent to local weavers, meticulously crafted, and stamped with the precious stamp of the Harris Tweed Authority.

 

• Keen crafters can unravel the ancient knitting traditions of Shetland  with Shetland Wool Adventures. Visitors can explore the rugged landscapes that have inspired generations of knitters, visit traditional wool mills and even learn intricate Fair Isle techniques for themselves.

 

• Orkney is a haven for coastal-inspired jewellery enthusiasts seeking authentic craftsmanship. Take part in a meet-the-maker workshop experience to uncover the artistry behind every gem with artisans Celina Rupp, Sheila Fleet, and Ortak.

 

Scotland's Spectacular Shores

Whether a seasoned beachgoer or an enthusiastic outdoor adventurer looking for the next spur-of-the-moment weekend away, Scotland's array of urban beaches, sandy coastlines and abundance of over 900 offshore islands make for the perfect year-round getaway.

With a variety of beaches scattered across the country to explore, make memories to last a lifetime from any of our sand-sea escape recommendations:

 

• St Ninian's Isle, Shetland

Discover the awe-inspiring St Ninian's Isle in Shetland, where a captivating tombolo stretches 500 meters, connecting it to the mainland. Recognised with a Keep Scotland Beautiful Seaside Award and acclaimed as one of Scotland's finest beaches, this unique destination promises an invigorating walk and scenic spots for picnics or sunbathing. Venture across the tombolo to explore St Ninian's Isle, home to an ancient chapel and the legendary discovery of a Celtic silver horde in 1958, presumed to have been hidden by monks to keep it safe from Viking raiders…Replicas of the horde can be admired at the Shetland Museum and Archives, while the original is housed in Edinburgh.

 

• Ganavan Sands, Oban

This picturesque sandy beach boasts easy access, and great views out to Mull, Lismore and Morven. The beach lies adjacent to a super coastal walk, too! Stop by Ardchattan Priory Gardens (reopening in April) for breathtaking views and enchanting flora. Stay at Thistle Award* winner for Best B&B Melfort House, an oasis of tranquillity and culinary delights located on the ​shores of Loch Melfort in Argyll.

 

• Isle of Coll, Inner Hebrides

With pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters, this island offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore its underwater wonders and is a must-visit snorkelling destination. Join Basking Shark Scotland and embark on an extraordinary adventure to experience the awe-inspiring presence of basking sharks in the waters of Scotland.

 

• Isle of Arran, Ayrshire

With its rich geological heritage and stunning coastal landscapes, every step along Arran's beaches unveils a piece of Scotland's geological history. Stop by The COAST Discovery Centre to learn about the island's marine biodiversity and conservation efforts or opt to join in shore scrambles and snorkelling sessions, entry to the centre is free. Stay at House of Machrie to bask in fabulous coastal views across the Kilbrannan Sound to the Mull of Kintyre. Sleeping up to 14 guests, this is a perfect option for larger groups.

 

• Balephuil Bay, Tiree

Known as the 'Hawaii of the North', Tiree provides a tranquil paradise to relax and unwind. With white-shell beaches and turquoise waters, Balephuil Bay is the perfect place for a swim and a firm favourite for surfers, thanks to the warm waters brought in by the Gulf Stream.  Fancy giving surfing a go? Blackhouse Watersports are fully equipped to cater for all levels.  When visiting this beautiful spot, be sure to take binoculars, as this is a favourite amongst nature-lovers, with a wealth of wildlife living around this part of the island's north-west coastline.

 

• Portobello Beach, Edinburgh

Portobello Beach has been a favourite amongst visitors and locals and features a bustling promenade. This beautiful stretch of sandy beach with low tides is the perfect place for beginners to experience a refreshing cold-water dip.

 

• Nairn Beach, Highlands

Situated in the middle of Nairn, and popular amongst families, Nairn Beach is home to a resident school of dolphins. There is also a brilliant range of coastal walks in either direction with a stunning nature reserve, Culbin Sands, at Kingsteps in the east and a viewpoint to the west.

 

Coastal Culinary Delights

Along the coast, visitors can indulge in the freshest catches and locally sourced ingredients at seaside restaurants or stop by a coastal distillery for a gin or a dram of whisky, sure to warm the cockles of one's heart.

Those craving adventure and a deeper connection with Mother Nature, can forage for wild ingredients, including during a seaweed masterclass in the East Neuk of Fife!  Other options to consider include:

 

• South Queensferry, Edinburgh

Outboard by Scotts, which reopened in March, provides stunning views of the Three Bridges, open all day for food to go, with a spacious covered seating area to also enjoy the outside, inside. Enjoy a coffee and a pastry before a spot of sightseeing, and stay at Dakota Hotel, a mere stone's throw away from Edinburgh city centre to embrace the best of both worlds.

 

• Largs & The Isle of Cumbrae, Ayrshire

The classic Nardini Café, open since 1935, serves beautiful surroundings and panoramic views of the Clyde alongside freshly fried fish and chips, Italian pastries, continental sandwiches, and fabulous ice cream sundaes. Head across the water with Calmac to the stunning Isle of Cumbrae, where it's a popular choice to hire a bike and cycle around the delightfully flat 10-mile isle. Extend a trip with Jack's Alt-Stays and relax in a wood-fired hot tub and enjoy views of palm trees for even longer.

 

• North Berwick, East Lothian

NB Distillery is a multi-award winning eco distillery based in North Berwick, East Lothian. Embark on a tour and enjoy a NB Gin, which was voted the Best London Dry Gin in the world, all whilst enjoying a beautiful backdrop. Stop off at award-winning café, Drift, for the ultimate coffee with a view, and indulge in freshly prepared, locally sourced dishes and lovingly made baked goods. Stay at Marine North Berwick to unwind over enviable views of the Firth of Forth and Bass Rock, providing guests with a quiet, elegant escape.

 

 

Key Events and Openings in Spring

 

• Perth Museum, Now open

The new Perth Museum opened its doors on 30th March, after a £26.5 million redevelopment project. The world-class cultural and heritage attraction highlights the fascinating objects and stories that put Perth and Kinross at the centre of Scotland's story. The new museum will showcase various objects of interest, including the 3,000-year-old Carpow Logboat and the Stone of Destiny (one of Scotland's most significant historical objects, an ancient symbol of Scotland's monarchy that was used to crown Scottish Kings, returning to Perthshire for the first time in over 700 years). 

The first exhibition on display at the brand-new museum is 'Unicorn', the first major UK exhibition to explore the cultural history of Scotland's national animal from antiquity to present day.  Through the material culture of this mythical beast the exhibition explores themes such as Scottish Royalty and national symbolism that also relate to the objects and stories on display in the new permanent galleries. 

 

• Scottish Crannog Centre, Perthshire, Now open    

A crannog is a house built over water, usually with a bridge or causeway joining them to the shore, and visitors can step inside one to discover unique insight into life in the Iron Age. The aim of The Scottish Crannog Centre at Dalerb is to be the most sustainable museum in Scotland. The new visitor centre showcases internationally significant archaeological collections, an Iron Age-inspired village of craft and technology demonstrations, and the first of three expert-led, but community-built, crannogs.   

 

• Stirling Celebrates 900 Years as a Burgh, April

Stirling, a Royal Burgh founded by King David I in 1124, is approaching its 900th anniversary, making it one of the oldest continuously inhabited places in Scotland. Nowhere else in Europe can one traverse from a historic battlefield to a Celtic fort, a medieval palace, and the site of a Jacobite siege, all within a 15-minute walk.  Visitors are encouraged to join locals for a year-long celebration of everything that makes Scotland truly unique, from the story of Bonnie Prince Charlie to the significance of tartan and the mysteries of Bloody Scotland. 

 

• The Kelpies Turn 10, 27th April

Standing at 100ft tall and weighing more than 300 tonnes each, the magical Kelpies, located within Falkirk's The Helix Park, are the largest equine sculptures in the world. The stunning sculptures, created by artist Andy Scott 10 years ago, have become iconic on the landscape after being modelled on real-life icons of times gone by — Clydesdale horses Duke and Baron. During a free event on 27th April visitors can enjoy street theatre, storytellers and artists who will create a vibrant and colourful scene to experience alongside the spectacular sculptures, culminating in a big family ceilidh, pipe band demonstrations, the day of celebration will be followed by a concert in the evening.

 

• Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk, 4th May

Kimono: Kyoto to Catwalk presents the kimono as a dynamic, ever-evolving icon of fashion, tracing its influence from 17th century Japan to today's cutting-edge couture and street fashion across the world. See rare, centuries-old kimono and modern designs from Issey Miyake, Yohji Yamamoto, and Alexander McQueen, and incredible costumes that have wowed audiences onstage and on the silver screen. Don't miss this extraordinary exhibition, curated by V&A South Kensington that originally premiered in London.

 

For more inspiration on a coastal getaways in Scotland, please visit: 15 Sea-View Coastal & Beach Cottages in Scotland | VisitScotland

 

ENDS

For more information and images, please contact:  

 

rachel.holloway@visitscotland.com / TravelPR@visitscotland.com  

 

VisitScotland media toolkit: Visit Scotland Media Toolkit  

 

 

Notes to Editors

 

*Delivered by VisitScotland in partnership with regional awards programmes, the Scottish Thistle Awards celebrate individual businesses, people and partnership working across 18 different categories. The awards have become an annual celebration of excellence, collaboration and innovation within one of the Scotland's most important sectors. For more information visit www.scottishthistleawards.co.uk  

 

• Follow us on twitter: @visitscotnews        
• VisitScotland is Scotland's national tourism organisation. Its purpose is to deliver a strategic and coordinated approach to supporting the rebuilding of the visitor economy in a responsible way, to ensure tourism thrives.    
• The organisation's work will help deliver the Scottish Government's National Strategy for Economic Transformation, and Scotland Outlook 2030, the national tourism strategy, which details the vision of Scotland being the world leader in 21st century tourism.     
• This is delivered through three strategic pillars: Building a responsible destination brand, investing in Scotland's tourism and events communities and facilitating collaboration and embracing change in support of a fairer, more responsible and inclusive visitor economy.    
• Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, spending by tourists in Scotland generated around £11 billion of economic activity in the wider Scottish supply chain and contributed around £6 billion to Scottish GDP (in basic prices).      
• VisitScotland is a leader in responsible tourism, making Scotland a better place for people to live and visit. We are proud signatories of the Glasgow Declaration on Climate Action in Tourism and Tourism Declares a Climate Emergency.     
• For VisitScotland's press releases go to https://toolkit.visitscotland.org, tourism statistics and frequently asked questions go to http://www.visitscotland.org/       

For holiday information on Scotland go to www.visitscotland.com