Scotland’s “best winter beach walk” has been crowned.
With December 25 inching ever closer, many Scots will be heading out on a picturesque Christmastime hike. While a beach might not be the first place you imagine when it comes to a wintery walk, Scotland’s scenic bays are definitely worth exploring this winter.
A new study conducted by GO Outdoors has revealed the best beaches in the country for a festive walk, based on factors such as daylight hours, popularity, rainfall, and temperature. Coming out on top is Yellowcraig Beach in East Lothian.
According to the experts, the beach sees more than 80,000 searches each year. It also has a Google review score of 4.8 out of five.
Popular amongst families, Yellowcraig is known for its pirate-themed adventure playground. It also has a wide variety of nearby hiking trails, while there is even a caravan site just a short walk away.
The natural cove also offers lovely views out over to the historic lighthouse on the island of Fidra. It is believed that Fidra inspired Robert Louis Stevenson when he wrote his legendary novel Treasure Island.
Elsewhere, Killantringan Bay near Portpatrick in Dumfries And Galloway also scored highly on GO Outdoors’ list. The breathtaking beach, which is surrounded by rocky cliffs, is popular amongst locals and tourists alike for its gorgeous views across to the magnificent Killantringan Lighthouse.
A spokesperson for Go Outdoors commented: “Although the cold weather may cause people to stay inside, there is no better time to explore the UK than the winter months.
“As crowds disperse, visitors to beaches often find themselves with miles of coastline to themselves. Some beaches remove car parking charges, and local eateries offer discounts during the off-season months.
“I would recommend wrapping up in the colder months, wearing base layers, and investing in a good waterproof jacket to ensure you can enjoy Scottish beaches no matter the weather.”
What’s your favourite winter hike in Scotland? Let us know in the comments below!
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