When you think of Scotland’s mountains, your mind may wander west. But turn to the east and you’ll discover plenty of adventure in Angus – naturally! It’s a place of never-ending skies, steely seas, towering peaks and glens with the power to help any explorer feel small and escape from the everyday. Nestled between the cities of Dundee and Aberdeen, the tranquil coastal and mountainous region offers cultural indulgences, mountains of freedom – and the deep contentment that comes with your perfect balance of both.
Main image: Loch Brandy in Glen Clova, a hidden gem in an Angus glen | Credit: Visit Scotland
Make this eastern gateway to the Cairngorms your next base for adventure and you could be waking up by the sea, spending the day climbing one of its 10 Munros, only to find yourself enjoying the end of play drinking and dining in one of the many Angus eateries or distilleries.
Each charming fishing village or town along the wild North Sea coastline holds its own hidden gem for foodies on the hunt, from farm shops and cosy cafes to perfectly-pulled pints and fine dining. That’s because fertile farmland across Angus is known for the world-class produce grown in the area. Local delicacies change with the seasons, keeping those in the know coming back time after time.
Follow a trail to suit your appetite from picking your own soft fruit, sampling the world-famous Arbroath smokies or having a tipple of award-winning spirits. Angus has something for every taste.
Any nature-lover will certainly find a number of ways to build up an appetite and raise a glass to adventures enjoyed. Set between the sea and mountainous glens, nature awaits on water or land. Drink in fresh air on a quiet stroll along one of Angus’s many beaches – Lunan Bay is a local favourite – or stroll along the majestic old red sandstone Seaton Cliffs. Kayaking, boating and paddleboarding provide yet another unique perspective.
One your desired sea salt intake has been reached, head inland to explore on foot. If it was good enough for the father of the Munros, we’re betting you’ll find a hill day to suit you. Sir Hugh Thomas Munro himself, the first person to systematically list all of the Scottish mountains above 3,000 feet, lived at Lindertis near Kirriemuir in Angus.
Arguably the most beautiful of the Angus Glens is Glen Clova (north of Kirriemuir), home to the natural inhabitants of Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve and Loch Brandy. Look out for rare alpine plants and watch the skies for golden eagles and peregrine falcons.
Whether you’re looking to develop your understanding of the natural richness of Scotland’s flora and fauna, or are simply looking to get outside for a sweeping summit view, there’s a big hill day for everyone. Indeed, Angus is home to a handful of Munros in Scotland highlighted as ideal for beginners.
Mount Keen claims the title of Scotland’s most easterly Munro, as climbed from Glen Esk or the Spittal of Glenmuick. Mayar and Driesh are often summited together in a single day – an irresistible proposition if you’re beginning your Munro-bagging journey – and are easily approached from the Glen Doll Ranger Centre.
While you may find yourself feeling ever more grounded and present in these hills, they also show us glimpses into the past. As ‘the birthplace of Scotland’, Angus holds centuries of history. Visit the ruins of an ancient Abbey, wander round castles connected to royalty, and learn the stories of historical houses.
Glen Isla, a wide valley in the southern Grampians between Glen Shee and Glen Prosen, is the subject of a fierce family feud dating back to the late 16th century, reaching a climax in 1640 with the burning of (now restored) Forter Castle in the Glen. If it’s raining (and you’ve forgotten your waterproof), museums and galleries across the region will connect you to local people, history and culture from past and present.
To delve further into this beautiful landscape, wheels may take your fancy. Try cycling through the forest on the edge of the Cairngorms National Park on miles of trails, perfect for everything from high-speed adrenaline days to family-friendly rides.
Should your legs need a little rest, buggy up and play a round of golf at one of 17 courses, with terrain ranging from championship coastal links to lush parkland. Angus is renowned worldwide for some of the finest golf courses ever created, including Carnoustie, which hosted The Open most recently in 2018 and is regarded as one of the toughest courses for any golfer to take on.
Whether you’re looking for your next hillwalking HQ or a balance of natural beauty and home comforts, adventure is par for the course in Angus; a beautiful, welcoming microcosm of all the majesty of Scotland.
Learn more at www.visitangus.com
