Looking for some fun activities and days out in Elie and its surrounding areas this summer? You’re in the right place!
Elie is known for its famous beaches, delicious food and stunning Scottish scenery so whether you are on holiday, taking a short break or spending the day here, there’s plenty to keep you busy and make your trip a memorable one! Keep reading to discover some of Elie’s top spots and must-do activities while visiting our beautiful corner of Scotland, there really is something for everyone.
Elie Beach
Elie beach is well-known for being one of the most beautiful beaches in the UK (it was recently named in the top 20 Greatest Beaches in the UK by the Telegraph) with its golden sand and clear blue waters, visitors love it all year round but it really comes alive in the summer months. Whether you are taking a summer stroll, building sandcastles, taking part in some watersports or going for a swim, a day on the beach in Elie is a must for all visiting the area. Elie Watersports is a great stop for any adventure seekers offering windsurfing, sailing, canoeing, paddle boarding and more. We also love Elie’s Seaside Sauna, located on the dunes at Elie Harbour, it provides a escape from it all with stunning views over the bay and beyond.
Golfing
It goes without saying that East Neuk is a golfer’s paradise with an array of world-class courses available. Golfers in Elie are spoilt for choice with two courses – The Golf House Club (18 hole links course) and The Baird Course (9 hole course) which boast stunning views of Elie’s coastline and the Firth of Forth. Our stunning period property Davaar overlooks the 17th fairway making it the perfect retreat for golfers visiting the area.
Secret Bunker
It might look like an innocent farmhouse but it in fact hides one of Scotland’s best-kept secrets! Scotland’s Secret Bunker near St Andrews makes for a great day out where you will discover the concealed bunker 100ft underground and the secret world of the Cold War, its top-secret command centre, dormitories and loads more. A truly fascinating day out for all the family, especially on a rainy day.
Art
If art is your passion, you’ll love The Wade Gallery in Elie. Overlooking the harbour, the gallery specialises in quality contemporary painting of all kinds with an emphasis on established and up & coming Scottish artists. Exhibitions are held annually in July & August. You can find out more and browse their latest exhibitions here. The Pittenweem Arts Festival which runs from 5-12 August is also a must for art enthusiasts. Now in its 39th year, the festival will be a celebration of the visual arts, featuring over 100 artists from all over the UK and will take place in galleries, homes, studios and venues throughout Pittenweem. Visit their website to find out more.
Fife Coastal Path
Starting from the Firth of Forth and ending on the Firth of Tay, the famous Fife Coastal Path stretches 150km with each section offering a secret to discover. Think caves, wildlife, rugged cliffs, quaint fishing villages and award-winning beaches – sounds idyllic? The route can be broken down into shorter walks or done as a long-distance route. We love the Elie to Anstruther section which is around 6 miles and takes in the most stunning coastline which truly has to be seen to be believed! The route is clearly marked making navigation easy for all.
Elie Chain Walk
Something a little unique to Elie is the Elie Chain Walk! The 0.5km cliff walk consists of 8 chains built into the cliffside and should only be tackled at low tide. The route involves climbing & scrambling along the jagged cliffside so requires agility and a head for heights but is great fun for any adrenaline seekers. Here is a great guide to read before you embark on the challenge with further information and advice.
Ship Inn cricket on the beach
Did you know the wonderful Ship Inn in Elie have their own cricket club? Not only that they are the only club in the world to play all their home games on a beach! The team have been playing on Elie beach for over 30 years and watching them play is a unique experience not to be missed! They play every second weekend throughout the season, with play only possible at low-tide afternoons. Keep an eye on their socials or visit their website for more info.
Kellie Castle
Kellie Castle is a great family day out with a historic castle dating back to the 14th century, beautiful gardens, a tearoom, stables, woodlands walks and plenty of events on throughout the year. The castle has a fascinating history including being saved from ruin in the 19th century by a family of architects and artists. The interior is just beautiful, described as “Medieval atmosphere meets Victorian style” and must be seen to be fully appreciated! Head to their website here to find out more and plan your visit.
Where to stay in Elie
Looking for a base to explore all that Elie and East Neuk has to offer? Elie Escapes has a portfolio of beautiful self-catering properties suitable for all group sizes from small families to large group gatherings and we would love to welcome you! Browse our properties and availability here and don’t hesitate to get in touch if you have any questions about our properties or Elie itself, we are happy to help. Don’t see a suitable property? Drop us an email, we might just be able to source a property in Elie that will work for you and your group.