A great day out in Fife
Duncanrig Ramblers got the best of the weekend weather as they headed to the kingdom of Fife for two walks.
The alternate route took in the ‘Five Villages Walk’ along the Fife Coastal Path: Earlsferry (Shell Bay), Elie, St Monans, Pittenweem and Anstruther.
The group started at the caravan park at Shell Bay and followed the path into Earlsferry which is the older of the two adjoining villages.
The village was first settled in time immemorial and it is said MacDuff, the Earl of Fife, crossed the Forth here in 1054 AD while fleeing from King Macbeth.
In particular, the legend tells of his escape being aided by local fishermen – an act which may have led directly to the village being promoted to Royal Burgh status due to MacDuff’s later influence over Malcolm III.
From here, the group meandered along the coast passing through the lovely villages of Elie, then St Monans – a stop for lunch in the shadow of the windmill – then on to Pittenweem and finishing in Anstruther at the harbour where some fish and chips and a few ice-creams were enjoyed.
The high walk had started at Lower Largo and climbed Largo Law (950ft); conical in shape and the remains of a volcanic plug, with the group enjoying the great views from the top.
With the hardest part of the walk over, the members descended onto the beach at Lower Largo and joined the Fife Coastal Path to walk to Elie and the awaiting coach. However, as the group passed by the caravan park and the tide was out, a breakaway decided to complete the chain walk.
This is around the base of Kincraig Point and passes over the top of the cliffs.
This headland is a jumble of volcanic rock, pools and caves, washed by the sea at high tide, and the traverse is a mixture of walking and easy scrambling with the aid of chains bolted into the rock. Both groups enjoyed their social in Anstruther. Check out the www. duncanrig.com for details on all the club activities.
Visitors welcome.