Exploring the east coast of Scotland: why Angus deserves a place on your summer itinerary

You don’t have to go far to find everything you need to recharge, from jaw-dropping coastal scenery and delicious steaks and seafood to royal castles and ancient landmarks.

Angus is a landscape of contrasts, where pristine beaches meet heather-clad hills, and majestic mountains give way to wooded valleys. Rich in natural beauty and steeped in history, this tranquil corner of Scotland invites you to slow down and reconnect with the outdoors.

Find out more at www.visitangus.com.

Climb every mountain

If you love outdoor adventure, the Angus Glens are a spectacular series of glacier-carved valleys stretching from the lowlands of Strathmore to the southern edge of the Cairngorms National Park. They include 10 Munros - including some of the best Munros in Scotland for beginners – along with mile upon mile of twisting, climbing roads and routes much-loved by cyclists and hikers.

Between the peaks lie five valleys which are said to branch out like the thumb and fingers of a giant's hand, from the dramatic Glen Clova to the secluded Glen Prosen. Along with Glen Doll, Glen Prosen is the focus of a long-term restoration project to plant thousands of native trees along the valleys’ waterways to attract salmon and draw in golden eagles and red squirrels.

The smallest – and perhaps the most overlooked – of the Glens, Glen Lethnot rewards those willing to venture off the beaten track. This secluded glen was once frequented by illicit whisky distillers, who drew water from the local burn to produce spirits in hidden stills. The route they travelled, still known as the Whisky Trail, is well worth exploring.

Golden glow

If golden sandy beaches are your happy place, visiting Angus is a must. Lunan Bay, which has ranked in Scotland’s Beach Awards every year for the past decade, is a great place to start: this secluded spot is framed by sand dunes and popular with surfers and horse riders. Bottlenose dolphins have been spotted in the surf, while the estuary provides fantastic birdwatching opportunities.

Families will love Montrose Beach too with its three miles of scenic sand offering great views south to Scurdie Ness Lighthouse. Check out the Seafront Splash play area for kids who fancy some adventure play.

And East Haven Beach is an ideal day out for everyone – including your four-legged friends. Home to one of the oldest recorded fishing communities in Scotland, this cute little bay has some fantastic rockpools to explore at low tide.

Paddle, bounce and explore the outdoors

Discover even more of this incredible coastline with Arbroath Cliff Tours: you can kayak to hidden caves and land on secret underground beaches, take in spectacular rock formations and encounter some of the local wildlife up close. Get involved here.

Monikie Country Park has an adventure play park as well as Angus Aqua Splash, a thrilling inflatable water park. There are also a selection of walking and cycling trails to help you discover the country park. If you enjoy exploring your surroundings by foot or on bike then there are miles of Angus Trails throughout the area – just visit the website to find out more.

Immerse yourself in history

Angus is known as the birthplace of Scotland and for those with an interest in our nation's rich past, each of its historic sites reveals a different chapter of the story.

At the heart of the region stand the atmospheric ruins of Arbroath Abbey, one of Scotland's most significant medieval monuments. Or head inland to the impressive Glamis Castle, the fairytale ancestral home of the Earls of Strathmore and Kinghorne which is surrounded by beautifully maintained gardens and parkland; take a look at its events this summer here.

For a more recent trip back in time, you can visit the birthplace of JM Barrie, creator of Peter Pan, in Kirriemuir. Journey through his life and work and take a look at the writing desk where he wrote Peter Pan. Details on the Visit Angus website.

Four miles of Caledonian Railway line run between the town of Brechin to the countryside stop of Bridge of Dun, offering a fun day out for the whole family. Ride a heritage train drawn by both steam and diesel locomotives on the route which dates back to 1848. Find out more here.

A great break for foodies

From Arbroath smokies to Angus beef, the region is home to mouth-watering produce known around the world. There are even foodie trails like the Arbroath Smokie Trail to tantalise your tastebuds - find out more here.

Thanks to the fertile soil, visitors in summertime are spoiled for choice when it comes to soft fruit: think juicy strawberries, raspberries, blueberries and blackberries. You can experience the joy of picking your own fruit at a selection of farms including Charleton Farm.

The Gin Bothy, a local gin distillery, uses this succulent fruit in some of its berry flavoured gins. The perfect place to taste one is at The Bothy Experience in the historic village of Glamis, just minutes from Glamis Castle. Choose one of the cosy spots here to enjoy a drink and get a unique insight into both Scottish heritage and the Gin Bothy journey. More info about the home of the award-winning Gin Bothy here.

Whisky lovers won’t want to miss a visit to the newly opened visitor centre at the Glencadam Distillery which opened in 1825, for an immersive tour and a guided tasting to learn about this resilient spirit. Check it out here.

If you’re looking for wild landscapes, historic treasures and outstanding local food, they’re right here on your doorstep. Make Angus your natural choice for a break away this summer.

Find out more at www.visitangus.com.