Experiences
Golf, gastronomy, going on an adventure – whatever you’re into, a visit to the East Neuk offers activities to suit every taste. From Michelin-starred restaurants to local village pubs, there’s plenty for foodies to discover in Fife’s burgeoning local food scene. Feeling active? Explore the stunning countryside on your doorstep, home to some of Scotland’s most picturesque beaches, towns and villages. Try your hand at traditional handicrafts – or treat yourself to an in-home massage.
Food & Drink
With the East Neuk fast becoming a must-visit destination for culinary connoisseurs, Balcarres Estate forms part of a tight-knit network providing some of the finest food and drink Scotland has to offer. Whether you’re looking to dine out in style or prepare a cosy home-cooked supper, delicious local produce is available from several exciting nearby locations.
Golf
The East Neuk of Fife is home to some of the world’s finest golf courses, with plenty of options on offer for those fond of a ‘good walk spoiled’. St Andrews Links is justly famous as the Home of Golf, with the Old Course featuring on many players’ bucket lists. For those in search of a fresh challenge, Balcarres Estate’s very own links course is not to be missed: Dumbarnie Links, which opened in May 2020 and has already hosted international open competitions, was named the “World’s Best New Golf Course 2021” and looks set to soon become a pilgrimage destination in its own right.
Wellness
Yoga
Enhance your feelings of bliss with a private yoga and meditation lesson in the sitting room (or, weather permitting, garden) of your Balcarres Estate home.
Equestrian
We are delighted to offer equine livery at our traditional stable block for those looking to explore the estate and surrounding beaches on horseback. If you are looking to bring horses with you on your travels, enquire below as early as possible to ensure availability.
Rambling
Those inclined to wander will find few places better than the Fife countryside surrounding your holiday cottage or farmhouse. Whether exploring the extensive mature woodlands and the Estate’s rolling fields or following the spectacular coastal path (including the famous Elie chain walk), scenic routes abound for amblers of all abilities. Why not spend the day beachcombing one of the East Neuk’s many sandy stretches – in Elie, St Andrews, or perhaps the lesser-known Kingsbarns, with its delicious toastie shack waiting at the end of the strand?
E-Bikes
You are invited to hire e-bikes or mountain bikes in order to extend the range of your roaming. You can explore on bike the shops, pubs and eateries of Elie and Kilconquhar. Please get in touch to discuss details of rates and availability or to make a booking.
Scottish Craft
Knitting Lessons: Legendary knitwear designer Di Gilpin is particularly well-known in the United States for her hand-knitted pieces, which have featured in the collections of designers including Paul Smith, Nike and La Fetiche. Join Di at her Comielaw Farm studio for an unforgettable journey from croft to couture.