Elginshire, or Moray as it is now, (but we will include it so nothing gets missed) boasts a diverse range of natural attractions, from tranquil lochs and lush forests to dramatic coastlines. The area is defined by a flattish coastal section with towns and a hilly interior extending into the Grampian Mountains. Notable features include the Moray Firth coastline with its beautiful beaches and bays like Findhorn and Burghead. Inland, a network of lochs and nature reserves provides havens for wildlife and peaceful walks. The region’s geography, shaped by ancient geological strata, offers stunning scenery for all to explore. The Moray post links to images is better, but there are some here worth a look.
Natural Attractions and Scenic Spots
- Beaches: The beautiful sandy coastlines at Lossiemouth and Hopeman, ideal for walks and sea views.
- Cooper Park: A lovely, welcoming park in Elgin with a lake, swans, and large grassy areas.
- River Lossie: Enjoy tranquil riverside walks, offering a different perspective of Elgin’s natural beauty.
- Quarrelwood: A local forest known for its walking trails and peaceful atmosphere, great for fresh air.
- Moray Firth: The nearby coast is one of the best places in the UK for dolphin and whale watching.
- Logie Estate: Provides easy access to well-marked trails, with stunning scenery near Forres.
- The Biblical Garden: An enchanting and peaceful garden located in Elgin, with a unique theme.
- Cawdor Castle Gardens: Features a variety of formal and informal gardens, including a maze and parterres.
- Lady Hill: Offers a short walk to the top with a splendid 360-degree view of Elgin and its surroundings.
- Spey Bay: A beautiful location at the mouth of the River Spey, home to the Scottish Dolphin Centre.
Historic Sites and Ruins
- Elgin Cathedral: Known as the “Lantern of the North,” these magnificent ruins date back to the 13th century.
- Spynie Palace: Once the fortified residence of the Bishops of Moray, this impressive ruin is located outside Elgin.
- Duffus Castle: A superb example of a motte-and-bailey castle, with a later stone fortress, now a grand ruin.
- Pluscarden Abbey: A unique medieval monastery that is still active today, home to a community of Benedictine monks.
- Burghead Well and Fort: Explore the remains of a major Pictish fort and a well, a site of significant archaeological interest.
- Sueno’s Stone: The tallest carved Pictish stone in Scotland, located in Forres and standing at 6.5 meters high.
- Brodie Castle: A beautiful turreted castle with a rich history and magnificent grounds.
- Kinloss Abbey: The ruins of what was once the largest Cistercian monastery in the North of Scotland.
- Balvenie Castle: A medieval stronghold near Dufftown, maintained by Historic Environment Scotland.
- Thunderton House: A former royal residence in Elgin where Bonnie Prince Charlie stayed before the Battle of Culloden.
Museums and Cultural Sites
- Elgin Museum: Scotland’s oldest continuously independent museum, housing collections on local history, geology, and archaeology.
- Moray Motor Museum: A collection of vintage and classic cars and motorbikes, housed in an old mill building.
- Fochabers Folk Museum: A heritage centre dedicated to local memorabilia and historical items.
- Scottish Dolphin Centre: Located at Spey Bay, it provides information on local marine life and conservation efforts.
- Johnstons of Elgin: A famous cashmere manufacturer, offering mill tours to see the production process.
- Buckie and District Fishing Heritage Centre: Details the history of the local fishing and maritime industries.
- Grant Park: A beautiful public park in Forres, gifted to the town and host to significant events.
- Findhorn Heritage Centre: Houses a museum, providing insight into the history of the Findhorn area, including a large icehouse.
- Gordon Castle Walled Garden: A huge and impressive walled garden with a shop and cafe.
- Falconer Museum: Located in Forres, this museum showcases a wide variety of local history exhibits.
Any Other Notable Experiences
- Whisky Distilleries: Part of the famous Speyside whisky trail, with distilleries like Glen Moray and BenRiach offering tours.
- Golf: The area offers several scenic and challenging golf courses, including Elgin Golf Club and Moray Golf Club.
- Castle to Cathedral to Cashmere Trail: A self-guided walking trail in Elgin that highlights the town’s history and key landmarks.
- Local Festivals and Events: Check for local pipe band championships, Highland games, and other community events.
- Elgin Ghost Tours: Guided walking tours that delve into the spooky and mysterious history of the town’s closes and lanes.
- Shopping: The town centre of Elgin offers a wide range of unique shops, cafes, and restaurants.
- Forres In Bloom: Appreciate the beautiful floral displays in Forres, which has won numerous awards.
- Logie Steading Visitor Centre: A collection of independent shops, a cafe, and a secondhand bookshop in a beautiful setting.
- Culbin Forest: A huge coastal forest with walking trails and cycling routes near the village of Findhorn.
- Fishing: The River Spey is world-renowned for its salmon fishing.