The secret gem Scottish fishing village with beach 'in walking distance'
Scotland is home to many picturesque regions, but few are as stunning as the East Neuk of Fife. The area is renowned for its idyllic harbours and magnificent coastal views.
In the East Neuk of Fife, there are many spectacular seaside towns and villages. The Daily Record recently did a deep dive on the former royal burgh of Crail, which is located around just 90 minutes from Edinburgh by car.
Another gorgeous settlement in the East Neuk is St Monans. Also known as St Monance, the village and parish is named after Christian missionary Saint Monan.
Home to a population of around just 1,100 people, St Monans is a great day trip destination for those looking for a bit of peace and quiet as summer comes to a close.
The village is beloved by locals and visitors alike for its 17th and 18th century homes along its harbour, as well as its easy access to scenic beaches.
One of the top attractions in St Monans is the St Monans Tidal Pool, which was recently named by the Daily Record as one of the top swimming destinations in the country. The outdoor pool, which was restored by local residents, is situated in the shadow of an old windmill.
In terms of places to stay in St Monans, the village features a variety of holiday homes to rent out. One of these is Fishermans Loft, which according to its listing on holidaycottages.co.uk offers "splendid uninterrupted views over the harbour".
The second-floor flat features one bedroom and sleeps up to two guests, which may make it appealing to those seeking a romantic getaway. The property is available to book for as little as £457.
Inside, there is an open-plan lounge, kitchen, and diner that overlooks the sea and harbour. The kitchen features an electric oven and gas hob, while the bathroom includes a shower over bath.
While there might not be a garden at the property, according to the listing, the beach "is within walking distance".
On holidaycottages.co.uk, Fishermans Loft has received very positive feedback, though there are only 18 reviews.
One recent guest shared: "Was a lovely place to stay for a relaxing break on the Fife coast. Felt like home from home except this one had a sea view!"
Another echoed: "Excellent location had all the facilities that you would need. Perfect for a base to explore."
Elsewhere, another holiday rental in the East Neuk of Fife is Invermay in the village of Pittenweem. The two-bedroom home sleeps up to four guests.
Dating back to the mid-19th century, the traditional fisherman's cottage is situated right along the seafront of Midshore. It is available to book through Sykes Holiday Cottages at a price of £792 for two nights.
According to the listing, Invermay benefits from "uninterrupted sea views from every room". In addition to its bedrooms, the property features a country-style kitchen and diner, a sitting room with dual-aspect windows, and a bathroom with a tub and overhead shower.
On Sykes Holiday Cottages, Invermay has an overall rating of 4.9 out of five. Visitors have praised its "lovely views and great location".
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