As you make your way along the East Lothian coast you come to the little village of Gullane – just half an hour from Edinburgh, yet you could be a million miles away. The beach here is my favourite place in the world – my place to get away from it all. Wild dunes, wind so cold it makes your eyes water, vast stretches of sand and that solemn greeny-grey of the North Sea.

I find it a wild yet peaceful place to ponder and dream. It’s at its very best on those stunning blue sky autumn days when it’s empty and all yours. It’s special because it’s so close to the city yet it gives its visitors a chance to feel far from the crowds.

As you emerge onto the golden sand turn left and keep walking over the rocks to a quiet stretch where birds swoop and call. From here, on a good day, you can see the Forth Road Bridge in all its glory in the distance. After your walk, head down to the main street and snuggle up with a steaming pot of coffee and a delicious scone or decadent sachertorte at Falko Konditormeister.

Photo courtesy of Dave W on Flickr