Fife Coastal Path St Monans to Pittenweem

The stretch between St Monans and Pittenweem is one of those walks that sneaks up on you. You're not hiking anything dramatic - it's a proper coastal amble, maybe 90 minutes at a steady pace - but the Fife coastline does something special here. The path hugs the water with genuine affection, swinging past fishing boats still actively working their trade, old stone harbours that feel like they've been doing this for centuries, and glimpses into cottage gardens where salt spray clearly isn't much of a deterrent.

Walkers will love this. It's accessible without being bland, and the views across to the Kingdom of Fife's interior keep things interesting. Families with younger kids can comfortably manage the terrain, though the wind can pick up something fierce - bring proper coats. Photographers will find themselves stopping every five minutes: there's light bouncing off the water, weathered stone, working fishing communities that aren't performing themselves for tourists.

It's free, obviously. Best done on a clear day when you can actually see where you're going, and avoid the worst of the gales. The walk fits beautifully into a wider Fife coastal exploration - Anstruther's just a quick drive away and has everything you'd need for fuel and lunch. If you're staying at one of the local parks like Elie Holiday Park or Forth House, you've got the whole East Neuk within reach. This particular stretch isn't the most dramatic section of the Fife Coastal Path, but it's genuine and unpretentious, which rather appeals.