The area of Angus on Scotland’s east coast is woven with awe-inspiring landscapes. From the mountainous uplands of the Cairngorms to the majestic cliffs and sandy beaches of the coast, it promises endless inspiration for days immersed in the wilds. Whether you’re seeking the relaxed quietude of the realm’s country parks or the untamed allure of its great trails, it is sure to inspire the most magical moments far removed from the everyday.
To set foot in a storybook world of towering bens and ancient glens, uncover our curated guides to the best walks in Angus.
Reekie Linn Waterfalls
For those seeking a gentle introduction to walks in Angus, the stroll to Reekie Linn is sure to entice. A short and sweet woodland trail, it hugs the banks of the River Isla to reach a series of falls hidden between the trees. Follow the leaf-strewn trail for less than half a mile from the car park to reach natural viewing points along the way, where you can watch the river and falls from a safe distance. Coursing through the landscape from the Cairngorms Mountains, these falls are particularly impressive in winter when the river is in spate and thunderous torrents tumble through the gorge into a 36-feet-deep plunge pool below. Behind the falls resides a cave known locally as Black Dub, where old legends whisper of a local outlaw and his encounter with a fearsome giant black dog.
For something a little different, you can pick up the Peter Pan to Reekie Linn bike trail from nearby Kirriemuir. Covering just over 20 miles from the charming town, the route begins in the birthplace of Peter Pan author, JM Barrie, weaves past the Loch of Kinnordy, and loops around Loch of Lintrathen, before heading back again.
Airlie Monument
Situated atop Tulloch Hill, Airlie Monument near Dykehead enjoys spectacular panoramic views across the surrounding landscapes. Completed in 1901, it was built in commemoration of the 11th Earl of Airlie and has become a beloved local landmark amongst locals and visitors alike. Resembling a fairytale folly, it cuts a striking silhouette against its verdant backdrop and is a magnetic destination for walks. Find parking near Scott Wilson Memorial and meander along the hillside forestry trails through the encompassing woodland. A particularly spellbinding route, the 1.5-mile Airlie Monument trail leads wayfarers towards the hill’s summit and the tower, unveiling far-reaching views across Angus and towards the glens of Clova and Prosen.
Loch of Kinnordy
To the west of the town of Kirriemuir in Angus resides the Loch of Kinnordy. A sanctuary for wildlife and lovers of nature alike, it features a rich tapestry of shallow loch waters, reedbed, and marshy scrubland, interwoven with designated trails. Head over to explore the area and fall in love with its peaceful habitats and backdrop of rolling hills and farmland. In summer, walkers can be treated to sightings of regal ospreys soaring overhead, while year-round, opportunities to see otters, beavers, red squirrels and deer are a delight. Wander along the 1,000-foot-long trail between the loch’s hides, or seek further adventures by walking the mile or so from the loch to nearby Kirriemuir.
Montrose Basin Bird Hides
Home to over 1,800 acres of tidal mudflats, the Montrose Basin in Angus is one of the most important areas for birds in the country. Offering vital feeding, roosting, and breeding grounds for a variety of species, it is a haven for wildlife throughout the year. That said, the winter months are especially magnetic, with more than 100,000 migratory birds flocking to the loch shores and encouraging wildlife watchers to adorn cosy layers and settle into a spot with binoculars to observe their effortless flight. For the walkers, the area around the basin proposes plenty of rambles. A welcoming introduction to the area, the 3-mile Montrose, Scurdie Ness, and Usan circular provides pursuers of wanderlust adventurers with the chance to embrace the area’s blissful quietude and look out for a variety of species. A highlight along the way is Scurdie Ness Lighthouse, as well as detours to St Cyrus Beach nearby.
Crombie Country Park
Crombie Country Park is the perfect place for those wishing for a taste of manicured wilderness. A 200-acre country park with a visitor centre, shimmering reservoir, and coniferous woodland, it beckons to nature seekers of all generations. Trace your way around the park’s 4 miles of dog-friendly trails to uncover its enthralling scenery, cloaked in an emerald canopy of evergreen leaves. To learn about the area’s social and natural heritage, journey on foot along the Discovery Trail. Or, for a unique way to get around, follow one of the cycle tracks that wend through the trees. Ideal for families, there is a dedicated adventure play area, wheelchair-friendly tree trail, and designated picnic and barbecue areas that call for alfresco feasts on balmy days.
Arbroath Cliffs
If you are seeking moments of oceanside escapism along some of Angus’ coastal trails, uncover the magic of Arbroath Cliffs. Encompassing Arbroath’s stunning coastline and the breathtaking red sandstone Seaton Cliffs, this sea-kissed realm is one of the most beautiful in Scotland and renowned for its captivating natural architecture. For an unforgettable foray into the salt-flecked air, join the 4-mile Arbroath Cliff Trail, keeping an eye out for the incredible archways, sea stacks, caves, coves, blowholes, tunnels and formations that decorate the coast.
Particularly beloved are the legendary rock formations known as The Devil’s Head (The Deil’s Heid) and The Needle's Eye (Needles E’e). Start your walk from the eastern end of Victoria Park in Arbroath and immerse in the unrivalled coastal beauty.
Corrie Fee
Part of the Corrie Fee National Nature Reserve, Corrie Fee is a striking natural amphitheatre near Glen Doll and Kirriemuir. A dramatic, ancient landscape formed of mountains, rivers and cliffs, it was shaped by glacial activity in the last Ice Age and has left a stunning alpine legacy for visitors to enjoy. For those seeking walks in the wilderness, Corrie Fee offers a soul-stirring introduction to the Cairngorms National Park and awaits with a number of walks to explore. To pursue heavenly adventures, park in the Glen Doll car park and step onto the 4-mile Corrie Fee Trail and savour an enchanting hike alongside the area’s otherworldly geological formations. En route, keep a look out for the corrie’s rich flora and fauna, such as rare arctic plants that bloom with delicate purple and yellow flowers.
Rocks of Solitude
A peaceful riverside trail can be found from the village of Edzell in Angus. A 6.5-mile loop, it branches out from the town to run alongside the River North Esk and through picturesque woodland, bucolic countryside, and an impressive gorge. Along the way, the route unveils a plethora of interesting sights, such as magnificent falls, geological wonders, and historic structures. Adding a storybook feel, the walk also leads to a blue door, through which wayfarers must pass to continue the walk and venture into the grounds of the 18th-century Burn House. Another beloved feature of the walk is the 18th-century Doulie Tower. Built by a local lord, it was constructed ornamentally to serve as a scenic backdrop to picnics and today remains a magical sight during woodland wanders.
Lunan Bay
Lunan Bay on the Angus coast is one of the most fairytale settings for oceanside reveries. Savour salt-kissed sojourns and enjoy leisurely strolls on the shore, relishing the magical setting of Lunan. For those wishing for a relaxed approach, you can simply step on the beach’s powdery sands and walk as little or as far as you’d like to reset in ocean style. Or, for more of a challenge, indulge in a drawn-out exploration of the bay over the 7-mile trail from the beach’s northernmost tip to its southernmost, and back again.
As you walk over sandy swathes and coastal paths, look out for the hollow caves that nestle into the cliffs at the northern end of the bay, as well as the remains of the red sandstone Red Castle overlooking the mouth of Lunan Bay Estuary. For a dreamy detour, you can also visit nearby Boddin Point with its historic lime kilns, as well as Dunninald Castle with its 100-acre gardens and woodland.
Glen Esk Waterfalls and Invermark Castle
For a challenging walk in the stunning mountains of Angus, the 10-mile Glen Esk Waterfalls and Invermark Castle loop from Auchronie is an enticing proposition. Residing within the Cairngorms National Park, this bewitching hike navigates well-defined gravel tracks and encompasses an array of iconic sites. Find parking near the romantic ruins of Invermark Castle, a soaring tower house dating back to the 1300s, and follow the footpath as it circumvents the glistening Loch Lee and a number of cascading waterfalls. Skirting around the foot of Craig Maskeldie, this walk promises relatively even terrain with some steep ascents and descents for a rewarding adventure amongst some of Scotland’s most spectacular realms.
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