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The Fife Coastal Path is one of Scotland’s most scenic long-distance trails, stretching 135 km (83 miles) from the Forth Bridges near Edinburgh to the Tay Estuary at Dundee. Following the rugged shoreline of the Kingdom of Fife, the route winds past volcanic cliffs, fossil beaches, dunes, and picturesque fishing villages rich in maritime heritage. This self-guided trip begins with an included overnight stay in Edinburgh, giving you time to explore Scotland’s historic capital before heading to the coast. Once a Pictish kingdom, Fife’s distinct identity is shaped by its waterside geography. Highlights along the trail include the Pictish carvings at East Wemyss, the medieval port of Dysart, and the historic town of St Andrews, home to Scotland’s oldest university, a world-famous golf course, and impressive cathedral ruins. Wildlife is abundant, with chances to spot seals, seabirds and dolphins, while food lovers can enjoy fresh seafood and local specialities along the way – including Anstruther’s famous fish and chips. Your walk concludes with a crossing of the Tay Bridge into Dundee, where modern Scottish culture and design come together at the V&A Dundee. Blending natural beauty, local history and coastal charm, this is a rewarding journey through one of Scotland’s most captivating regions.
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13kg of CO2-e PP per day
(91kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)
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Day 1
Arrive Edinburgh
Arrive in Edinburgh, the Scottish capital city, known as the "Athens of the North" for its contributions to philosophy, science and the arts. Stroll around the winding streets of the Old Town, visit Edinburgh Castle or check out the world-class museums and galleries. There is so much to see and do, we highly recommend additional nights here if you have the time. Speak to our team about this when you book. Accommodation: Overnight in a B&B or hotel in the vicinity of Haymarket train station. Upgrades are available.
Meals: Nil
Day 2
Train to North Queensferry & walk to Burntisland 22 km /13.6 miles, 5.5h
Make your way to Haymarket Station for the short train journey (18 mins, payable locally at low cost) to North Queensferry. Our baggage handlers will meet you at the station to collect your bags before you set out on the Fife Coastal Path Trail. Your hike begins at the station taking you under the Iconic Forth Bridges before heading past Deep Sea World and the Carlingnose Wildlife Reserve. Walk through Inverkeithing, known for its medieval friary ruins and panoramic views across Dalgety Bay. Stop at St Bridget’s Kirk, a 12th-century church overlooking the Forth, before reaching Aberdour with its famous castle – one of the oldest in Scotland. Finishing the day walking along Silver Sands Beach to Burntisland, a traditional seaside resort with a Blue Flag beach. Accommodation: A beautiful, independently owned, country hotel, nestled in 2 acres of gardens and woodlands, boasting stunning panoramic views across the Firth of Forth. It houses one of the area's best restaurants. After a busy day walking, you can enjoy freshly prepared, homemade dishes in the hotel's restaurant. The head chef and his team are justifiably proud of the excellent reputation they have earned.
Meals: B
Day 3
Burntisland to Leven 26km / 16.1 miles, 7h
From Pettycur Bay you follow the path past Kinghorn to Kirkcaldy, where you’ll discover Ravenscraig Castle perched dramatically above the coast. In Dysart, take time to explore the Harbourmaster’s House and enjoy the quaint alleys of this former royal burgh. Continuing along the coast to West Wemyss with its historic charm and on to the East Wemyss Caves, famous for their ancient Pictish carvings. End the day in the bustling sea side town of Leven you will spend two nights here. Accommodation: spend 2 nights in a guesthouse with a shared lounge, garden, BBQ facilities, and free WiFi throughout the property. It also provides guests with a sun terrace. All rooms have a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with a hot tub, a hairdryer and free toiletries. All guestrooms will provide guests with a wardrobe and a kettle. There is a choice of a buffet or à la carte breakfast.
Day 4
Leven to Elie 15.5km / 9.6 miles, 4h
From Leven you continue along Largo Bay’s sandy beaches and through Lower Largo, birthplace of Alexander Selkirk, the inspiration for Robinson Crusoe. Continue to the dramatic cliffs at Earlsferry and Shell Bay Beach. Before arriving in the picturesque village of Elie, where the charming harbour and Elie Ness Lighthouse await. Accommodation: Due to limited accommodation in Elie, you will return to Leven for the night with transfers included. You will be picked up from The Ship Inn and taken back to your accommodation in Leven.
Day 5
Elie to Crail 17km /10.5 miles, 4.5h
You will be picked up from your accommodation and taken to The Ship Inn in Elie to continue your walk.The route takes you through the quaint fishing village of St Monans, which once pumped seawater into salt pans, and enjoy the working harbour of Pittenweem. Stop in Anstruther, renowned for its award-winning fish and chips, or take a boat trip to the Isle of May Nature Reserve to see puffins and seals. Continue through rolling fields and a salmon fisherman’s bothy to the charming harbour village of Crail, where you can sample fresh lobster straight from the boats. Accommodation: a traditional small hotel with a garden, a shared lounge and a terrace. Providing a bar. All rooms include a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a private bathroom with a shower, free toiletries and a hairdryer. A continental, Full English/Irish or vegetarian breakfast is available, you will find a restaurant serving British and international cuisine. Vegetarian and gluten-free options can also be requested.
Day 6
Crail to St Andrews 22.5 km / 14 miles, 6h
This challenging day takes you to Fife Ness, the eastern most point of the peninsula, then past a string of world-class golf courses and the pristine beach at Kingsbarns. The rugged coastal path offers dramatic views, with cliffs at Kinkell Braes providing a breathtaking approach to St Andrews. Explore the medieval ruins of St Andrews Cathedral, the historic castle, and the iconic Old Course before settling in for the evening. Accommodation: a small, friendly 3* hotel, and the first in St Andrews to be awarded the prestigious title ‘Townhouse Hotel’ by the Scottish Tourist Board. The quaint old building has a warm personality all of its own. The Hotel is a boutique, informal hotel situated in the heart of historic St Andrews. The hotel building itself is a delightful conversion of a traditional Georgian terraced town house dating from 1764.
Day 7
St Andrews to Dundee 32.5 km / 20.1 miles, 8h
Your final day on the coastal path departs from St Andrews along a cycle path to Guardbridge, where the Eden Estuary Nature Reserve provides a haven for birdlife. For a shorter walk, an optional taxi transfer can reduce this section by 10km (not included approx £40), bypassing the tarmac stretch to Guardbridge or Leuchars. From Leuchars, home to the Norman-era St Athernase Church, follow boardwalks through the peaceful trails of Tentsmuir Forest. Continue past Tayport along the Tay Estuary to Newport-on-Tay, where the path concludes with a stunning walk across the Tay Bridge. Enjoy sweeping views of the river as you arrive in Dundee, with its vibrant waterfront and Captain Scott's ship The Discovery and the the iconic V&A Dundee design museum waiting to be explored. Accommodation: stay at a modern hotel located in the gateway to the city, coupled with the new rail terminal complex, they are close neighbours to the V&A Museum Dundee, River Tay and the new Waterfront Plaza. With relaxed spaces and well-appointed rooms.
Day 8
Depart Dundee
Arrangements end after breakfast.
What's included
What's not included
You’ll stay in a selection of Scottish hotels, inns and guesthouses, chosen for their character, comfort and proximity to the walking route. Rooms typically feature private bathrooms, along with tea and coffee-making facilities and a TV. A traditional Scottish breakfast is included each morning. Please note that availability may vary, particularly in Edinburgh and St Andrews during peak summer months, when accommodation is in high demand. In some cases, supplements may apply to secure rooms in these busy areas. Where our usual accommodation is unavailable, we will arrange a stay in a similar standard property nearby. While we aim to secure ensuite rooms throughout, this is not always possible in rural areas. Single travellers, in particular, may occasionally be allocated a room with shared facilities. Early booking is strongly recommended to ensure the best possible arrangements.
The Fife Coastal Path is a mix of different trail surfaces that include gravel paths, dirt tracks, sandy beaches, clifftop trails, boardwalks and rocky paths. There are some steep ascents and descents, and trails through open countryside. Good boots with ankle support and walking poles are highly recommended. In the event of rain, the trails can be slippery and care should be taken.
We grade this tour as Moderate (grade 3). Walks range in distance from 15 - 32 kms (9 - 20 miles). The longest day of 32km /20 miles can be shortened by 10km by taking a transfer. The walking times are between 5-9 hours. There is some undulation, and a variety of surfaces can be expected from sand, cliff side trails, fields, cycle paths and small roads and bridges. The route is generally well waymarked but care is required when navigating in more remote areas. Being coastal, the route is exposed to the weather. Most of the trail is manageable for reasonably fit hikers, but some sections require extra care due to rough terrain and elevation changes.
Per Person, Twin Share
North Queensferry at the start is an easy 20-minute train ride from Edinburgh Waverley Station. At the end of your walking holiday, Dundee is situated on the railway line back to Edinburgh taking 1.5 hours.
The East Neuk of Fife is a picturesque coastal region in the eastern corner of Fife, Scotland, known for its charming fishing villages, scenic coastline, and rich maritime history. "Neuk" is a Scots word for "nook" or "corner," reflecting its tucked-away feel. The villages of Elie, St Monan's, Pittenweem, Anstruther and Crail are some of Scotland's most beautiful coastal villages with whitewashed cottages, colourful harbours and narrow winding streets of artisan shops and cafes. Be sure to visit the pottery when you are in Crail.
The hike starts in North Queensferry, very close to Edinburgh, so we highly recommend tacking on some additional time to explore the Scottish capital, one of the world's most beautiful cities and the home of the 18th century Scottish Enlightenment movement. Edinburgh is a city of history, culture, and surprising natural scenery in it's position between the Pentland Hills and the Firth of Forth. From iconic Edinburgh Castle and the historic Royal Mile to the dramatic heights of Arthur’s Seat, the city blends medieval charm with a vibrant modern atmosphere. Quaff a pint in a Rose Street pub, have a wee dram in the Old Town, or enjoy a fine wine in a bar in the New Town. It’s home to world-famous festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and Hogmanay, while its museums, whisky bars, and thriving food scene offer something for every visitor. Whether exploring the cobbled streets of the Old Town, admiring Georgian elegance in the New Town Edinburgh promises an unforgettable experience. Note that if you are planning to visit during the Summer Festival, early booking in strongly recommended.
While it doesn't have long stretches of road walking, there are some sections where you might need to walk on roads, especially when the trail moves through towns or areas with limited access to the coastline. However, these road sections tend to be short and often are on quieter roads, making them manageable for walkers. The majority of the path offers stunning coastal scenery with trails that are off-road, perfect for those looking to enjoy the natural beauty of Fife.
Once you have completed the Fife Coastal Path, you can commemorate your achievement by ordering a personalised certificate of completion, signed by the CEO of the Fife Coast and Countryside Trust. Find details on https://fifecoastandcountrysidetrust.co.uk/product/coastal-path-completion-certificate/
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
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