Behind the town of Montrose, up the coast from Carnoustie, the River South Esk opens into
Montrose Basin: a wide tidal lagoon of mudflats and saltmarsh that fills and empties with
every tide. It is a local nature reserve managed by the Scottish Wildlife Trust.
The wildlife
The basin is internationally important for birds. It is best known for the huge numbers of
pink-footed geese that arrive in autumn and spend the winter here, and it is busy with
wading birds and wildfowl through much of the year.
The visitor centre
The Scottish Wildlife Trust's Montrose Basin Wildlife Centre, on the southern shore, looks
out over the water, with telescopes and hides for watching the birds.
Planning your visit
Check the Scottish Wildlife Trust's website for the centre's opening times and for the best
times of year to see particular birds. Binoculars and warm clothes make any visit better.
For more places to visit from The Station Hotel, see Explore the Area.
