Seaside cottages in Scotland
A beach holiday in Scotland is like no other. It is always surprising how many English, Welsh or Irish people have never been to Scotland and do not appreciate the stunning scenery and characterful fishing villages that they're missing.
One of the easiest ways to describe the coast in Scotland is to compare it to Cornwall because granite predominates in both. There are lots of quaint fishing harbours from days gone by, sandy secluded coves, awe inspiring cliffs where sea birds nest and long stretches of beach, often backed by sand dunes.
In some parts, on the west coast of Scotland, the mountains come down to the sea creating a scenic backdrop to natural beaches.
The beaches are excellent, there are sandy beaches, pebble beaches and beaches with rock pools - just as there are in Cornwall.
The weather may be wilder and less predictable and it is a very different experience from Cornwall. The fish and chip shops are still there, the tea shops sell a wider range of very good Scottish cakes and 'pieces', but you will not have the crowds, the commercial entertainment, unless you go to the cities such as Aberdeen (which also has a good beach).
What Scotland offers for seaside holidays is nature, pure and simple, and miles of clean beach and coastline.
The best places for a seaside holiday in Scotland
The best place for a seaside holiday in Scotland much depends on how far you're prepared to travel and what you would like to do and see when you're there. Go to the north east of Scotland, to Cruden Bay, Collieston, Crovie, Portsoy or Gardenstown for unspoilt seaside holidays in small fishing villages and beaches backed by sand dunes.
These particular villages on the north east coast of Aberdeenshire are mentioned but there are numerous similar villages along the coast. The landscape is slightly hilly but not mountainous. Boats from Buckie take visitors whale and porpoise watching.
A seaside holiday on the west coast offers scenery with spectacular mountains, remote beaches and peaceful seclusion. The further north you travel, the less populated. Remote locations such the Outer Hebrides are a natural haven for wildlife and seabirds.
