Despite Scotland's reputation for mist and rain, the eastern coastal regions consistently rank as the sunniest parts of the country. Specifically, the Dundee and Angus coastline, along with parts of East Lothian and the Fife coast (including St Andrews), are the undisputed "sunshine capitals" of Scotland. This is due to a geographical phenomenon where the high mountains to the west (the Highlands) act as a barrier, wringing out the moisture from the prevailing Atlantic winds before they reach the east. This creates a "rain shadow" effect, leaving the eastern side significantly drier and brighter. Dundee, for instance, often averages over 1,500 hours of sunshine per year, which is remarkably high for its northern latitude. In contrast, the Western Highlands can receive less than 1,000 hours of sun annually. While 2025 was recorded as one of Scotland's sunniest years on record with an average of 1,381.3 hours nationwide, those seeking the most consistent clear skies should head to the "Sun City" of Dundee or the sheltered coastal villages of the East Neuk of Fife, where the weather is frequently more stable and pleasant than in the famously damp west.