United Kingdom
That is how King James described the coastline of the East Neuk of Fife. For two weekends, the 6-7th and 13th-14th June, thirty artists in the area open the doors of their studios to the public. Although many are painters, attracted by its superb scenery and wonderful skies, there are also ceramicists, a weaver, a textile artist and a jeweller. There is also an exhibition of the artists’ work at the Byre Theatre, St Andrews from 27th May until 19th June.
An hours drive from Edinburgh, twenty minutes from St Andrews
An illustrated brochure with maps can be down-loaded from www.eastneukopenstudios.org, or telephone 01333 730249
This beach has over 5 miles worth of deserted golden sand, barring the small gatherings to be found near the car park. It is backed by dunes and Tentsmuir Forest which offers miles and miles of walking and cycling all on the the flat.
Kinshaldy Beach is on the North Sea coast of Fife, just north of Leuchars and only about 5 miles from the Tay Bridge and Dundee and 4 miles south to St Andrews.
A visit to the lovely sandy beaches and old fishing villages of what King James called 'The Golden Fringe' of Fife is always well worth the trip, especially on the weekends of 2nd and 9th June, when over 30 professional artists open their studios to all.
Half hour's drive from St Andrews (station, Leuchars) or an hour from Edinburgh. Details of open studios: www.eastneukopenstudios.org, or telephone for illustrated brochure, 01333730249
A blue flag beach of nearly two miles of sand and dunes. You can ape Chariots of Fire and go for a run (the opening scene was filmed here) or just have a leisurely walk. Kite flyers are in abundance on windy days, at the point where the beach curves, near the estuary of the River Eden.
Bring your own bucket and spade, however; there's a merciful shortage of tacky beach shops.
St Andrews
www.fife.gov.uk/atoz/index.cfm?fuseaction=facility.display&facid=F34F9DCE-399D-4C02-97A10D6AC5118C4C
Search Been there