Banff

Wild coastline meets ancient stone in this corner of Aberdeenshire where fishing boats still work from tiny harbours. Banff sits proud on cliffs above the Moray Firth, a proper Scottish fishing town that hasn't lost its working edge despite the tourist coaches that roll through in summer.

The town itself feels lived-in rather than polished. Locals still outnumber visitors most days, and the high street has that authentic Scottish seaside feel - chip shops, pubs that serve decent pints, and The Ice Cream Shop doing what it says on the tin. Castle Hill offers cracking views across the firth on clear days, though the Scottish weather makes no promises.

Head west along the coast and you'll hit some spectacular caves. Preacher's Cave and Whale's Mouth are worth the scramble down from the clifftops, though check the tide times first. The geology here is properly dramatic - red sandstone cliffs that drop straight into churning grey water.

Cullen, just down the coast, adds another layer to any visit. Sanine Beach stretches for miles when the tide's out, and Cullen Golf Club has one of those links courses that'll either make your day or ruin it entirely. Deskford Church, a few miles inland, shows off some fine medieval stonework if you fancy a break from the salt air.

For something stronger than sea air, Glenglassaugh Distillery does tours and tastings. It's a working distillery rather than a tourist attraction that happens to make whisky.

Banff Links Caravan Park sits right by the water, making it dead easy to explore the coast on foot. Alternatively, Sandend Holidays puts you within striking distance of both Banff and the string of fishing villages that dot this stretch of coast. Either way, you're well placed for coastal walks and the kind of big skies that make Scottish seaside holidays worthwhile.