Three of a kind: seaside homes

The spectacular setting of Dunlaverock House above Coldingham Sands. Its stepped garden leads down to the beach.

It is the reason that such areas command the very high prices they do.

The average home values in a sought-after seaside spot in these locations is comparable to those in some of Edinburgh’s better postcodes, but if your heart is set on a coastal view, there are more affordable beachside spots around Scotland to consider.

If you are prepared to head for Berwickshire rather than East Lothian, Dunlaverock House is a spectacular coastal property, which sits high above Coldingham Sands and proves you can get much more for your money.

46 Abbeywall Road in Pittenweem has views over the rooftops to the harbour.

Built in 1907 and packed full of original features, it has magnificent views over the bay and down the coastline.

The house is large, with eight bedrooms and four reception rooms and is currently run as a guest house but it would also make a stunning family home.

The banked garden to the front has direct access down to a pretty beach with a row of colourful beach huts below.

In terms of property, Elie is probably the most expensive of the East Neuk villages, but all of these picturesque fishing towns are favoured by those seeking a traditional seaside holiday.

Pinmore Cottage is a one-off modern property with views to West Loch Tarbert.

There are plenty of smaller traditional properties with seaside character and villages like Crail, Pittenweem, Anstruther, Cellardyke, Upper and Lower Largo, Lundin Links and St Monan’s all have their charms.

An upper flat at 46 Abbeywall Road, Pittenweem, is within yards of the harbour with elevated views of the boats coming and going.

The flat is currently used as a popular holiday let but might also appeal to second home buyers.

Argyll is reputed to have more coastline than France and with house prices relatively low, there are some fantastic coastal properties on offer.

Pinmore Cottage in Kintyre is a fine example of what is available.

With three bedrooms, it is set in its own walled garden and has far-ranging views across West Loch Tarbert to the mountains beyond.

It is close to the sailing Mecca of Tarbert and while it is a couple of hours from the Central Belt, it offers a home in one of Scotland’s most beautiful landscapes.

Where is it: Dunlaverock, Coldingham Sands, Eyemouth.

What is it: An eight-bedroomed period home dating from 1907 with beautiful views of the whole bay and down the coast.

Good points: It is set high above the beach but the garden has direct access down on to the sands and a sunny terrace at the front.

Bad points: Currently run as a guest house it is a good holiday business opportunity but may be too big for a family.

Price: Offers over £695,000.

Contact: Strutt & Parker on 0131 226 2500.

Where is it: 46, Abbeywall Road, Pittenweem in the East Neuk of Fife.

What is it: An upper flat, it has a bay-windowed sitting room with open-plan kitchen, two bedrooms, a dining hall and a bathroom.

Good points: Although it is set back from the front, the views are over the rooftops to the picturesque harbour. It has been successful as a holiday let.

Bad points: Two flights of stairs to access those views and there is no garden.

Price: Offers over £150,000.

Contact: Pagan Osborne on 01333 252853.

Where is it: Pinmore Cottage, Whitehouse, by Tarbert, Argyll and Bute.

What is it: A one-off modern property with three bedrooms, lounge, kitchen with utility, two bathrooms and a sun room.

Good points: Set in its own grounds, it has far reaching views to West Loch Tarbert and the mountains beyond. It is a new home with plenty of character in a lovely setting.

Bad points: The Kintyre peninsula is not a great place for commuting to the Central Belt.

Price: Offers over £325,000.

Contact: Robb Residential on 0131 225 3880.