Fife Coastal Path, St Monans, Anstruther KY10 2DN
This clay-coloured pool is a spectacular setting for watching the sunset with the windmill reflected in the water. This East Neuk windmill dates back to the 18th century. Then, it was used to pump seawater into the nearby salt pans where water was evaporated to leave behind salt. This stone tower mill stands strong in the landscape as a symbol of the village’s industrious past. It’s a real testament to the ingenuity of the people who lived and worked here. Scotland’s largest exports at that time were wool, fish, and salt, and you’ll see archaeological remains of this history as you explore. A short walk from the windmill leads to the remains of the salt pans themselves. Beachcomb here for fuel slag, winkle shells, and shards of old pottery from the former St Monans salt works.
The tidal pool itself was created around the 1930s. Built into the rocky coastline, the design is a harmonious balance between man-made and natural elements, and it’s this rugged charm that the community appreciates and have fought to preserve throughout changes in recreational trends. From here, you can access the Fife Coastal Path for a walk with stunning panoramic views of Firth of Forth.
Sources: