Route Overview

Where is the Fife Coastal Path?

Bonnie Scotland! The Fife Coastal Path is a walking route that stretches approximately 187 Km (116 miles) along the Scottish east coast from the Firth of Forth in the south to the Firth of Tay in the north. The coastal hiking trail is well signposted and offers stunning views of the coastline, as well as access to many historic sites, nature reserves, castles, beaches and picturesque fishing villages. It is Scotland’s longest continuous coastal path.

Why should you walk the Fife Coastal Path?

The Fife Region is a land of stunning coastal views with many memorable harbour towns along the route. The path winds between beaches and fishing villages, this Scottish hiking trail is a walkers dream. Picturesque farmland, enchanting woodland and a dramatic coastline make every section of the trail worthy of a visit and a pause. If you want an authentic hike that’s off the beaten path in Scotland then the Fife Coastal Path is for you.

This well-maintained trail winds through picturesque landscapes, including sandy beaches, quaint villages, and lush woodlands. Ideal for hikers of all levels, the path is relatively short and easy to navigate, with clear signposts and convenient access to amenities. While mostly flat and straightforward, there are occasional rugged sections along rocky beaches and clifftops, adding a touch of excitement to the journey. Whether you’re a seasoned trekker or a casual walker, the Fife Coastal Path promises a tranquil yet rewarding adventure through some of Scotland’s finest coastal scenery. Book a holiday with Hillwalk Tours to experience all this and more!

When is the best time to walk the Fife Coastal Path?

Spring

As nature re-awakens from its wintry slumber, life is once again restored along the Fife Coastal Path. Wildflowers bloom, emerald cliffs embrace the azure sea, and the days grow longer, allowing for an atmospheric hike against a breathtaking backdrop. In spring, temperatures begin to rise, reaching an average of 9-14°C (48.2-57.2°F), while rainfall begins to diminish, providing more opportunities to enjoy hiking on the Fife Coastal Path.

Summer

The Fife Region basks in the warmth of the sun, offering an invitation to explore its coastal wonders. Lush greenery covers the land, providing a vibrant backdrop for your hiking adventures. During summer, temperatures climb to a pleasant 16-19°C (61-66°F), making it the ideal time to hike. Rainfall remains relatively low, allowing for long days of exploration and discovery!

Autumn

Nature paints a masterpiece as the landscape transforms into a tapestry of autumnal colours. The leaves swap their summer greens for warm, earthy colours. Temperatures gradually cool during autumn, ranging from 9-17°C (48-63°F), while occasional showers enhance the lushness of the landscape.

Winter

During winter, temperatures hover around 2-6°C (36-43°F). Due to this and the fact that a lot of the accommodations are closed, it is only recommended that very experienced hikers take on Fife Coastal Path during this time of year. There is a high likelihood of snowfall during these months, making sections of the trail treacherous and at times impassible.

With all that said, the weather in the UK is extremely unpredictable. The Hillwalk Tours hiking season is from March to October, during which time we are happy to help you organise your hiking trip.

How long does it take to hike the Fife Coastal Path?

The original Bridge to Bridge trail is a 130km (80 miles) hike, beginning at the towering Forth Railway Bridge in North Queensferry, and stretching all the way to the Tay Bridge at Newport on Tay. In 2011 and 2012, two extensions were added, one on either side of that path. The length of the walking route now totals at 187km (116m), stretching from Kincardine to Newburgh.

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Tour Route

Types of Trails

Choosing the right hiking tour for you can be, at times, tricky. It is always important to consider your own physical capability and comfort levels.

For example, at Hillwalk Tours, we have grouped each trail route we offer into three categories depending on personal preference and fitness levels. These are – gentle, moderate, and challenging. Each of these categories, depending on the destination, will include anything from 4 to 13-day itineraries, with customers given the option to add rest days where they see fit.

Our gentle hikes are perfectly suited for those who would consider themselves as a part-time hiker who enjoys taking photos and meeting locals while taking in the spectacular scenery. Our moderate hikes will suit people who are used to regular exercise and appreciate the opportunity of covering plenty of ground each day without going beyond their limits. Finally, our challenging hikes are for hikers who look to set off early in the morning and not stop until they have reached their destination.

With regards to our Fife Coastal Path trail, we offer Gentle, Moderate and Challenging hikes. Each of these hiking categories cover the following average hiking distance and time each day:

Gentle: 13-16km or 8-10 miles and between 4-5 hours per day

Moderate: 16-25km or 10-16 miles and between 4-7 hours per day

Challenging: 26-30km or 16-19 miles and between 5-8 hours per day

Hillwalk Tours Guide Notes

If you decide to walk the trail with Hillwalk Tours, you will receive a detailed walking pack once you have fully booked your hiking holiday. This walking pack will include detailed Ordnance Survey (OS) maps and unique route notes and walking directions written and constantly updated by our route development team. By personally walking each trail and creating our own detailed route notes, it allows us to provide more itineraries, route options and alternatives than what you will typically find across generic guidebooks. It also includes GPS tracks meaning you will never have to worry about getting lost.

History

Fife’s existence as a distinct entity can be traced back to the Pictish Kingdom of Fib in the centuries after the departure of the Romans. It is for this reason that Fife is commonly referred to as “The Kingdom of Fife”, or simply “The Kingdom”. Dunfermline served as a capital of Scotland as well as Royal residence and burial place for many centuries. It is said to be home to the remains of eight Scottish kings, four queens and assorted princes and princesses.

Starting and Finishing Point

Beginning at the Firth of Forth and ending at the Firth of Tay, the Fife Coastal Path is a fantastic stretch of coastal walking and a fine way to experience the culture and landscape of Scotland. This relatively gentle trail takes you on a journey of discovery, starting just north of Edinburgh and then heading east along a coast celebrated for its beaches and colourful unique coastal towns with an ambiance all their own.

The trail meanders through charming active fishing villages including Crail which is the most photographed harbour in the UK. Its charming cottages and inviting atmosphere harken back to a bygone era. Let the sound of crashing waves and the salty sea air invigorate your senses as you stroll along the shoreline, taking in the panoramic views and marveling at the coastal landscapes.

Continuing north on the Fife Coastal Path, you’ll reach St Andrews. Known as the “home of golf”. St Andrews has several golf courses open to the public. The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews, founded in 1754, exercised legislative authority over the game worldwide until 2004. The famous Old Course of St Andrews Links (acquired by the town in 1894) is the most frequent venue for The Open Championship, the oldest of golf’s four major championships. There is also the famous Swilcan Bridge (see above) that runs between the first and 18th fairways in St Andrews and is indelibly linked to the sport, it was once even known as The Golfers’ Bridge. Explore the ruins of St Andrews Castle and Cathedral. The town is named after St Andrew the Apostle. The town also boasts Scotland’s oldest university which happens to be the oldest English speaking university in the world. This may explain why it is the favoured university for educating young members of the Royal family.

The Firth of Tay marks the end of your journey. Right at the tip before heading west you will pass through a protected area where you may find seals, seabirds and maybe even dolphins just offshore.

Sample Fife Coastal Path Itineraries

The following are examples of Hillwalk Tours Gentle, Moderate and Challenging itineraries of hiking the Fife Coastal Path.

Gentle 6-Day

Day 1: Arrival in Elie

Day 2: Elie to Crail (10.5 Miles / 17 Km)

Day 3: Crail to Kingsbarns 6.5 Miles / 10 Km)

Day 4: Kingsbarns to St Andrews (8 Miles / 13 Km)

Day 5: Leuchars to Tayport (9.5 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 6: Departure from St Andrews

Challenging 7-Day

Day 1: Arrival in North Queensferry

Day 2: North Queensferry to Kirkcaldy (17.5 Miles / 28 Km)

Day 3: Kirkcaldy to Lower Largo (12.5 Miles / 20 Km)

Day 4: Lower Largo to Crail (17 Miles / 27 Km)

Day 5: Crail to St Andrews (14.5 Miles / 23 Km)

Day 6: Leuchars to Newport-on-Tay (11 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 7: Departure from St. Andrews

Moderate 8-Day

Day 1: Arrival in North Queensferry

Day 2: North Queensferry to Burntisland (12 Miles / 19 Km)

Day 3: Burntisland/Kinghorn to Leven (16 or 13 Miles / 26 or 21 Km)

Day 4: Leven to Anstruther (15.5 Miles / 25 Km)

Day 5: Anstruther to Kingsbarns (10.5 Miles / 16.5 Km)

Day 6: Kingsbarns to St Andrews (8 Miles / 13 Km)

Day 7: Leuchars to Newport-on-Tay (11 Miles / 18 Km)

Day 8: Departure from St Andrews

Gentle 10-Day

Day 1: Arrival in North Queensferry

Day 2: North Queensferry to Aberdour (8 Miles / 13 Km)

Day 3: Aberdour to Kirkcaldy (9.5 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 4: Kirkcaldy to Leven (10.5 Miles / 17 Km)

Day 5: Leven to Elie 9.5 Miles / 15 Km

Day 6: Elie to Crail (10.5 Miles / 17 Km)

Day 7: Crail to Kingsbarns (6 Miles / 10 Km)

Day 8: Kingsbarns to St Andrews (8 Miles / 13 Km)

Day 9: Leuchars to Tayport (9.5 Miles / 15 Km)

Day 10: Departure from St. Andrews

Hillwalk Tours Fife Coastal Path Map

The Fife Coastal Path Path Terrain

Waymarking

The Fife Coastal Path is well waymarked. Throughout the path, you’ll find clear and visible signage, including distinctive markers and directional arrows. These waymarks guide you along the designated route, ensuring that you stay on track and don’t miss any of the stunning coastal views or important landmarks along the way.

Difficulty of the Fife Coastal Path

The long distance hiking trail in Scotland is quite beginner friendly, so it’s ideal for first time hikers and those who like to take their time and see the sights. That said, the Fife Coastal Path is is suitable for walkers of all abilities, with some sections being more challenging than others.

At Hillwalk Tours, we offer three tour grading levels (gentle, moderate and challenging) depending on the balance of physical challenge and comfort level that you require. Within these levels, you can choose between 5 to 10-day hiking tours to complete the trail. All you have to decide is how many kilometres / miles you would like to walk per day and we take care of the rest!

Sights & Attractions on the Fife Coastal Path

A bridge to bridge trail

Enormous bridges now link much of Fife to the rest of Scotland. Both the Tay and Forth rivers are crossed by such structures. The more famous of the two is the ‘Forth Rail Bridge’ – an internationally recognised Scottish landmark stretching between Edinburgh and North Queensferry. This bridge was the first major structure in Britain constructed entirely from steel and was opened in March 1890.

As walkers progress along the trail, they encounter the modern marvel that is the Queensferry Crossing. This sleek, cable-stayed bridge offers a striking contrast to its historic neighbor, providing essential road access across the estuary. At the end of the trail should you wish to visit Dundee the bridge over the Tay Road Bridge takes you into the city. The bridge spans 2.25kms of fast flowing water of the Tay river and rises to 38m at the Newport on Tay end to accommodate shipping traffic. A central walkway allows pedestrians and cyclists to pass over the bridge and at the centre is a raised viewing platform.

Ravenscraig Castle, Kirkcaldy

Ravenscraig Castle was built by by King James II (reigned 1437–1460) as a home for his wife, Mary of Guelders and is considered to be one of the first castles in Scotland built to withstand cannon fire and provide for artillery defence. During World War I the castle was The castle was used as an ammunition depot.

St Bridget’s Kirk

St Bridget’s Kirk is a historic church located between the coastal towns of Dalgety Bay and Aberdour on the shores of the Firth of Forth. The church was first noted in historic records in 1178 and is thought to have been constructed around that time. After the Protestant Reformation of 1560, St Bridget’s Kirk was expanded with new feature. The grounds of the church contain an extensive area of grass with crypts and carved gravestones of historic figures from the local area. By 1830, the main coastal road was moved inland and this drew people away from using the church as a place of worship. A new church was built inland and the remains of St Bridget’s were left as a lasting memory of this iconic medieval church.

Kinghorn Harbour

Kinghorn Harbour is a hidden gem located along the Fife Coastal Path. It is a picturesque spot nestled in the shadow of cliffs that offers several footpaths leading to spectacular views of the beach and out across the Firth of Forth towards Edinburgh and The Lothians. It’s a perfect place to relax and unwind while enjoying the stunning scenery.

Wemyss Caves

Carved by the ancient sea, the Wemyss Caves hold secrets of the past etched into their sandstone walls. Over 8,000 years of history are preserved within these mystical chambers. From Bronze Age artifacts to the enigmatic symbols of the Picts, the caves bear witness to the enduring human presence along the Fife coastline. The site contains the largest collection of Pictish inscribed symbols in one place. Among these hallowed grounds, the haunting ruins of Macduff’s Castle stand as a poignant reminder of Scotland’s turbulent past.

Robinson Crusoe and Lower Largo

Everyone is familiar with the story of the shipwrecked Robinson Crusoe stranded on a desert island. What is not so well known is that the character is based on the life of a Lower Largo native, Alexander Selkirk. Daniel Defoe’s book was based on his story. Argumentative by nature, Selkirk was sailing in a privateer’s expedition the south pacific in 1704 when they put ashore on the Juan Fernández Islands, 670 km (416 mi) off the coast of Chile. He had a dispute with his captain about the seaworthiness of their battle damaged and far-travelled ship and in the end was left there to fend for himself. The resourceful Selkirk survived quite well on his own for four years on the island, until he was rescued by passing ships. In a strange twist of fate, the agile castaway helped to restore the health of the ship’s men, who were suffering from scurvy. He became a celebrity when he returned home and his adventures were fictionalised by Defoe.

 

Newark Castle

Majestically perched on the edge of the shimmering waters just west of St Monan’s are the ruins of the 15th century, Newark Castle once home to the Kinloch family. Its upper floors are now in ruins but beneath the surface lie vaulted cellars.

East Neuk of Fife

When you hear or read the term East Neuk of Fife it generally refers to the northerly part of the Firth of Fife comprising of the coastal villages or towns of Elie and Earlsferry, Colinsburgh, St Monans, Pittenweem, Arncroach, Carnbee, Anstruther, Cellardyke, Kilrenny, Crail and the immediate hinterland beyond the shoreline.

The Scottish Fisheries Museum at Anstruther

This museum located in a historic building at Anstruther Harbour tells the story of an industry that shaped the lives of the coastal inhabitants for many centuries. Learn about Fishing’s Industrial Revolution through fascinating exhibitions, collections and archive images. The museum celebrates the role of the fishing community in the success of the industry and the craft traditions it inspired. Check out the local programme as it hosts live events such as concerts.

The Caves of Caiplie

The Caves of Caiplie are a strange rock formation that Christians used for worship starting in the 9th century. Chapel Cave contains carved crosses and holes likely used for ropes. Human remains were found beneath its clay floor during 19th-century excavations. Harmit’s Well, the easternmost cave, was briefly inhabited by a hermit before World War II; his door and window fixtures remain.

St Andrews

St Andrews, a historic coastal town, is famous for its university (the third oldest in the English-speaking world), its ruined cathedral (dating back to the 12th century), and its castle, which was damaged in the Wars of Scottish Independence. Prince William and Princess Kate met while studying at university here.

St Andrews is also known as the “home of golf” because of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews. It was founded in 1754 and until 2004 exercised legislative authority over the game worldwide (except in the United States and Mexico). The Old Course of St Andrews Links (acquired by the town in 1894) is the most frequent venue for The Open Championship, the oldest of golf‘s four major championships.

Hamish McHamish

While St Andrews is known for its royal university students, a famous feline named Hamish McHamish once rivaled their celebrity. This ginger cat roamed the town for 15 years, gaining a global following with his own social media presence and a book about his life. A bronze statue now commemorates him in Logies Lane.

Fife’s Beaches: The Fringe of Gold

Between the Forth Bridge and St Andrews stretches a coastline highlighted with sandy beaches that are known as the Fringe of Gold. There are an amazing 15 well known beaches along this trail. You can download a PDF listing all the beaches here from the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust who’s logo adorns the waymarkers.

Constantine’s Cave

Hidden amidst the mystical landscapes of Balcomie, Constantine’s Cave stands as a sanctuary to the legends of old. It is said that Causantín mac Cináeda, the king of the Picts (862-887) died here. Here, the entwined threads of history and mythology weave together, inviting seekers to delve into Scotland’s captivating past.

The Exhilarating Elie Chain Walk

Are you an adrenaline-seeker? Then the Elie Chain Walk stands as a distinctive attraction, offering an unconventional addition to the renowned Fife Coastal Path. It presents walkers with a heart-pounding journey that promises unparalleled coastal vistas and exhilarating challenges for those eager to embrace its heights and twists.

It spans 0.5 kilometres and boasts eight securely fixed chains, running either vertically or horizontally, carefully crafted into its twisted terrains and picturesque paths. From Kincraig Point, just half a mile from Elie Harbour on the western edge of the Scottish coastal town, you can access the rocky shoreline to begin your journey along the coast. With its demanding terrain, the walk typically takes 1-2 hours to complete, allowing ample time to discover hidden coastal treasures like coves and caves the challenging route has to offer. This unique route ends at Shell Bay, another one of Fife’s coastal gems, offering golden sandy beaches to relax on after completing the challenge.

There is more than just golf bunkers in Scotland

At the height of the cold war, paranoia gripped the higher echelons of governments across the western world. All governments have plans in place to provide shelter and food for the country’s leaders and military in case of nuclear attack. The Secret Bunker was built for this purpose in the early 1950’s as the threat of nuclear war with the Soviet Union was seen as a distinct if not small possibility. The goal was to have a facility that could maintain communications between government and its citizens in case of nuclear war.

Originally used as part of a radar defense system it was subsequently repurposed to house personnel from the military and government maybe even the British Prime minister in case of nuclear attack. With 2 diesel generators it had enough fuel for 3 months for heat and power and could accommodate 300 people. It also had a scientific research department which was tasked to analyse where nuclear devices had detonated and the resultant nuclear fallout. It was operational as a military facility until 1992. The bunker is located just 3.6miles (around 6km) west of Crail. Visit the Secret Bunker website for viewing times and feel an end of world scenario made real as you complete the Fife Coastal Path.

Wildlife

Scotland has a rich and diverse flora and fauna, and the Fife Coastal Path is no exception. Keep an eye out for seabirds, seals, otters, dolphins, butterflies, as well as a variety of wildflowers and fungi. Fife is a perfect location for connecting with this wildlife, particularly marine mammals and sea birds.

Puffins are colourful and distinctive pigeon-sized seabirds, adored by many, and Fife is one of the best places to find them in the United Kingdom! To be sure of seeing some Puffins and other rare seabirds take a trip to the Isle of May from Anstruther. During the summer months the cliffs on the Isle of May are home to spectacular seabird colonies and in the autumn the largest Atlantic grey seal colony in eastern Britain breeds on ‘the May’, as it is known locally.

Tentsmuir National Nature Reserve

After St Andrews, towards the end of the Fife Coastal Path on the Leuchars to Newport-on-Tay stage you will pass through a protected area which should give you opportunity to observe some of the local wildlife.

The River Tay disgorges more water than any other river in Britain, peak flow sees the same amount of water as 2,000 freshwater bathloads hitting the North Sea every second. Because of the huge churn of water and tide the Abertay Sands are created which stretch eastward beyond the landward tip of Tentsmuir. It’s a haven for seals and birds as well as wildfowl and wading birds such as redshank, curlew, dunlin, knot and golden plover. Look for them gathering at Tentsmuir Point.

History of the Fife Coastal Path

The Fife Coastal Path has a unique history steeped in prestige and pedigree. When hiking this Scottish trail, you are walking through the “home of golf”. There are many famous golf courses in the area, most noticeably St Andrews.

This town is also where British royalty are educated. The University of St Andrews was founded in the 15th Century, is the oldest in Scotland and the third oldest English speaking university in the world.

Constructed in the 12th century, St Andrew’s Cathedral served as the center of religious life and pilgrimage, drawing visitors from far and wide. The cathedral faced periods of prosperity and turmoil throughout its existence, including damage from fires and conflicts. Eventually, in the 16th century, the cathedral fell into ruin. Today, its remnants stand as a majestic testament to its former glory, attracting visitors who marvel at its architectural grandeur and reflect on its significant place in Scottish history.

In the 19th and early 20th centuries, the coastal communities of Fife experienced significant industrial growth, particularly in the mining and fishing industries. This period of industrialization brought changes to the coastline, as harbors, piers, and infrastructure were built to support the booming trade. However, as industries declined in the latter half of the 20th century, the coastal areas faced challenges and transformations.

The path itself is a relatively recent development, officially opening in 2002 as one of Scotland’s Great Trails.

Did you know?

The picturesque village of Crail has a ghostly tale to tell. Legend has it that a bag-piper entered a secret underground passage beneath Crail Castle, vowing to play his bagpipes until the tunnel reached St Andrews, about ten miles away. Unfortunately, the piper was never seen again. Locals claim that on stormy nights, the haunting sounds of the bagpipes can still be heard echoing through the streets of Crail, a reminder of the piper’s mysterious disappearance. Keep an ear out and let us know if you hear anything on your hike!

Fife Coastal Path Pop Culture

Film and TV

Chariots of Fire

Everyone remembers the video to Vangelis’ theme tune to the 1981 movie about running excellence which reach Olympic heights. The iconic opening scene from the movie is shot on West sands beach in St Andrews. The movie is based on the true story of Eric Liddell and Harold Abrahams. Both athletes qualify for the 1924 Olympics. Liddell refused to run his 100-meter race on Sunday due to his religious beliefs and switched to the 400-meter race instead. Abrahams won the 100-meter gold and Liddell, after receiving encouragement from an American competitor surprisingly wins the 400-meter gold. Both return to Britain as Olympic heroes.

The Crown

The celebrated TV series based on the English Royal family shot extensively in St Andrews when they explored the origin story of Wills and Kate, the Prince & Princess of Wales, during their time at St Andrews University where their fairytale romance began.

Karen Pirie

Karen Pirie is a British crime drama series based on Val McDermid’s novels. The first season aired on ITV in late 2022 and a second season has been ordered. The show is set and filmed around St Andrews in Fife, Scotland.

Outlander

Set in 18th Century Scotland, this 2014 series follows the remarkable story of Claire Randall, a strong willed woman who mysteriously finds herself torn between two worlds. Breathtaking landscapes and mesmerising performances make this well worth a watch.

Sea of Souls

A team of parapsychologists investigate supernatural mysteries and explore the human psyche. Running from 2004 to 2007, this BBC series dives deep into the intricacies of the human psyche exploring themes of grief, guilt, and the nature of the soul.

Macbeth

A 2015 adaption of Shakespeare’s timeless tragedy. Starring Michael Fassbender and Marion Cotillard, this film showcases all the beauty Scotland has to offer.

The Decoy Bride

A delightful 2011 romantic comedy follows a Hollywood actress who seeks refuge from the paparazzi by planning a secret wedding on a Scottish island. It’s a heartwarming, lighthearted film starring David Tennant, Kelly McDonald and Alice Eve.

For Those in Peril

A thought provoking drama set in a small Scottish fishing village. The story follows a young man who survives a tragic fishing accident that claimed 5 of his friends, including his brother. Plagued with survivors guilt, a journey of self discovery ensues. Poignant performances and haunting cinematography make this 2013 film a must watch.

Books

T.F. Franks Crime Novels

T.F. Muir is a Scottish crime novelist, born and raised in the region, and the setting of Fife often plays a significant role in his stories.

Iain Banks

The writer of “The Wasp Factory” a story about a psychopathic teenager living on a remote Scottish island as well as a string of science fiction novels, Banks was named as one of the 50 greatest British writers since 1945 by The Times in 2007. Banks lived on the Fife Coastal Path in Kirkaldy. His bibliography can be accessed here on his website.

The Beacon by Susan Hill:

“The Beacon” is a haunting and atmospheric novel that explores the mysteries of a remote village in Fife. The story follows the inhabitants of the village as they grapple with their own secrets, desires, and the enigmatic presence of the lighthouse that gives the book it’s title.

 

Food and Drink

On the Fife Coastal Path there is not only excellent whisky, the (other) side of physical well-being is also more than taken care of. Along the hiking trail you can stop to eat in hotels, pubs and restaurants, or go shopping in supermarkets. Vegetarians and vegans also get their money’s worth in the restaurants on the Fife Coastal Path.

Walker’s Shortbread

Made in Speyside, another great place to hike, is a true delicacy of Scottish snacks – Walker’s Shortbread. Shortbread is a type of rectangular Scottish shortbread that is exported all over the world. In addition to the biscuits, you can try other delicious pastries such as meringues, oat biscuits and cakes at the factory in Aberlour.

Haggis

When you think of Scottish cuisine, Haggis is probably one of the first things that comes to mind. It is a savoury pudding which is made up of a delicious combination of sheep’s pluck (organ meats), oatmeal, onions, salt, and spices. To some, haggis isn’t often the prettiest of foods, but makes up for it with its palatable taste.

Deep-Fried Mars Bars

Deep-fried Mars bars are a unique dessert that were invented in 1992 by John Davie. The famous chocolate bar is battered with a mixture of flour, eggs, and milk, then deep fried. You can find this delightful snack sold in fish and chip shops (also known as chippers) throughout Scotland.

Neeps and Tatties 

Often accompanying the national dish of haggis, neeps and tatties are made from root vegetables that have been boiled and mashed into two delicious side dishes. When served alongside Haggis, the meal in its entirety is called a “Burns supper”. Neeps and tatties is just another name for potatoes and turnips.

Cullen Skink

Originating in the northeastern part of Scotland in a small village named Cullen, this creamy smoked fish soup is another traditional Scottish dish. Cullen skink consists of smoked haddock, cream, potatoes, and onions, and is typically served with a side of toasted bread. While it originated as a local specialty of Cullen, you can find this popular soup on Scottish menus nationwide.

Scotch Whisky

It is hard to not mention Scotland without ever thinking of their world-renowned scotch whisky. It can be made from malted barley, wheat and/or rye with every whisky having to be aged in an oak barrel for at least three years. With the first written record of whisky recorded in 1494, there are now around 140 whisky distilleries currently operating in Scotland.

Irn Bru

Often referred to as Scotland’s second national drink, Irn-Bru is an orange-coloured soft carbonated drink that holds a distinctively sweet, tangy taste. It is so popular throughout Scotland that it has long been the best-selling carbonated drink ahead of Coca-Cola and is the third largest selling soft drink across the United Kingdom. The Scots are such fans of this fizzy pop that they even use it to glaze their ham or to make cupcakes!

Drambuie

Drambuie is a Scottish liqueur. It was invented in the 18th Century by John MacKinnon. The name Drambuie is thought to originate from the Scottish Gaelic phrase An Dram Buidheach. This means “the drink that satisfies” or “the satisfying dram”.

Is the Fife Coastal Path Vegan Friendly?

The vegan diet has become more and more popular throughout Europe in recent years, and you will find that there are plenty of vegan options available in most eateries. Each of the accommodation we work with at Hillwalk Tours have given us their guarantee that vegan breakfasts will be catered for once they have been informed. That being said, some of the more rural locations of the trail may have limited options so we advise bringing certain items such as plant-based milk, nut butters or protein powders if you so choose.

In addition, the following apps show restaurants which offer vegetarian and/or vegan options:

• Happy Cow (€0.99)
• Vanilla Bean (free)

Nearby Trails

There are various other Scottish trails available to you once you have completed Fife Coastal Path. Here are the other Hillwalk Tours Scottish hiking tours we offer:

• West Highland Way
• Rob Roy Way
• Great Glen Way
• Speyside Whisky Trail

Fife Coastal Path Tips and FAQs

 

Fife Coastal Path Image Gallery

 

Hillwalk Tours

About Us

Hillwalk Tours is an award-winning walking tour operator which specialise in self-guided walking holidays in Ireland, Scotland, England, Wales, Portugal and along the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Our goal is to create happy experiences for all of our customers, suppliers & staff.

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Leave No Trace

We like to walk in nature and since you are reading this – we believe you do too! It is important to ensure that our impact on the environment is limited so that hikers can enjoy the same view after us. The rule applies: when you leave, make sure that nature looks the same as when you arrived or simply put “leave no trace.” As more and more people take to the great outdoors, our collective mark on the environment increases.

What does this mean in reality? Of course, do not leave any rubbish or waste behind. Do not collect stones, flowers, or other “souvenirs”. Don’t carve your name on a tree or break branches… I think you get the drift. It is imperative for walkers to play their part in making sure litter, damage to vegetation and all forms of pollution are limited.

Noise can also be a form of pollution. Whoever walks through a forest talking and laughing loudly, for example, ruins the peace and quiet of other walkers, who can no longer hear the birds. The same goes for cell phones that suddenly start ringing. Keep the volume down and respect your surroundings. Ultimately, the point is to ensure that as many people as possible can enjoy walking through nature. So that applies to you, but also to those who tread the path after you.

Hillwalk Tours proudly supports sustainable tourism and loves the countryside as it is – wild, peaceful and clean. We are proud to support the “Leave No Trace” initiative that aims to preserve the natural beauty of each nations countryside where we offer hiking holidays. We try to create happy experiences for our accommodation too, and the restaurants, shops and taxi companies that serve our walkers. These are often small businesses located in isolated areas that have been left behind by urban migration and a lack of investment in rural regions. Their warm hospitality and friendly welcomes epitomise the magic of a Hillwalk Tour and we’re dedicated to helping keep these rural communities alive.

The Benefits of Hiking

In recent years, walking and hiking outdoors has been widely reported to have numerous physical and mental health benefits. The following are examples of some of these benefits:

Improve strength and fitness

• Weight loss
• Muscle gain
• Improve metabolism
• Improve digestion
• Better quality sleep
• Increase in Vitamin D
• Improve discipline
• Sense of achievement
• Living in the present moment

Hiking Equipment List

For a more in-depth list of recommended hiking equipment list, click here.