

This quaint little fishing village is believed to be where the Arbroath Smokie was first created. You can reach Auchmithie by following a three-mile- (five kilometre-) long coastal footpath that takes you over the red sandstone Seaton Cliffs and past dramatic sea stacks, natural arches and caves all the way to the bay below the town of Auchmithie.
Another few miles up the coast, Lunan Bay is a stretch of golden beach backed by tall sand dunes and framed by low cliffs at either end. It’s a destination for hardy surfers who brave the bay's chilly waters, as well as horse riders, who trek along the beach, and birdwatchers who can spot such rarities as great grey and red-backed shrikes. Lunan Bay Campsite has grass pitches next to the beach.
The village of St Cyrus is home to a national nature reserve that is known for its flower-rich grasslands, volcanic cliffs and beach, which provide attractive settings for long walks as well as diverse habitats for a variety of wildlife, including many species of bird. A 15-minute drive inland, Dovecot Caravan Park has pitches for tourers and tents.
For making the most of long (and, with luck, sunny) days, spring and summer are the most appealing times to visit. A warm sunny day on the Angus coast beaches, especially on Lunan Bay, may have you disbelieving you’re still in Scotland and it’s your best window of opportunity for taking a dip in the sea. Winters tend to be grey, wet and short (the sun sets around 4 p.m. in winter) but do provide conditions that make the cliffs especially dramatic.