Famed for its championship golf course, Carnoustie also offers coastal views and a secluded sandy beach.
Lying on the Angus coast, between Dundee and Arbroath, the small town of Carnoustie offers invigorating sea air, walks along the sandy beach and through woodland, and swimming, sailing, windsurfing and fishing on the bay. The town is most famous for its championship golf course, said to be one of the most challenging links courses in the world, but novice golfers can also try their hand at the game. The closest organised campsite to Carnoustie is at the adults-only Riverview Caravan Park in Monikie, set close to the beachfront five miles (eight kilometres) down the coast.
There are three 18-hole golf courses here—the championship course has hosted The Open eight times. For less serious golfers, there’s also Carnoustie Nestie, a six-hole course designed for novices that is free to play. You can also practice at the Golf Performance Centre. For families, the Sandy Sensation playpark is on the seafront next to the links and has an adventure playground, splash area and paddling pool.
Under four miles (six kilometres) north of Carnousite, the scenic village of East Haven is steeped in fishing history. The coastal walk from Carnoustie takes you across the sandy beach and along a grassy path with sand dunes. East Haven’s bay sits within a small natural harbour and is a popular, and safe, area for children and adults to paddle. One of the most beautiful sections of the Sustrans National Cycle Network 1 runs through the village and up the coast.
Turning inland, five miles (eight kilometres) from Carnoustie, Crombie Country park has a range of walking and cycling trails that go through woodland around Crombie Loch. It’s a great place to spot wildlife, including red squirrels, roe deer and a variety of birds.
For long daylight hours and your best chance for sunny weather, the best time to visit the area is in summer. The highlight of the season is the annual Carnoustie Gala Week, which is filled with events and festivities including parades, Highland dancing and local food stalls. The summer school holidays (July/August) are the busiest time of year so if travelling at this time, it’s a good idea to book campsites in advance.