7 Things to Do in Moray
Looking for things to do in Moray, Scotland? Stretching from the tip of the Cairngorms National Park across the Highlands to the coast, the region is packed with nature and adventure. From visiting castles to hiking the coastal path, white water rafting and whisky tasting, here are seven top things to do and places to visit in Moray Speyside.
7 Moray tourist attractions
Set in the rugged Scottish Highlands, Moray is filled with roaring rivers and lochs, thick forests, mountains and history. Don’t miss these activities and attractions on your next visit.
1) Adventure sports
If you love adventure sports, Moray has plenty to keep you busy. In the winter, head to the Cairngorm National Park, which has three ski centres and is the UK’s most popular skiing destination. The area around Aviemore has everything from zip wires to cycling, climbing and clay shooting. For mountain biking, check out the Moray Monster Trails near the coast or the Glenlivet Estate paths, both have trails to suit all levels.
Moray really excels when it comes to water sports. The gentle River Spey is ideal for canoeing and kayaking, while the Findhorn offers up to grade five rapids and sections to suit various skill levels. ACE Adventures is the only company to offer rafting on the Findhorn, as well as tubing and cliff jumping trips. Spend the day sliding down water chutes, abseiling over waterfalls and scrambling along a gorge on a canyoning trip. Find out more about all of the adventure sports on offer at ACE.
2) The Findhorn Foundation
This world-famous eco village is set on the Moray Coast near Findhorn Bay, a pretty harbour where you can often spot dolphins and seals. The foundation was set up by Eileen and Peter Caddy in 1962, who transformed the barren landscape into a thriving spiritual community. Today, the site is home to a community of over 500 people and boasts 90 uniquely-designed eco-buildings, from hobbit cottages to barrel homes.
Take a fascinating tour of the village led by a Findhorn resident to see its art studios, meditation centres and the gardens responsible for growing giant vegetables. Learn about how the site is sustainably powered and visit the café and gift shop. Universal Hall is one of the Findhorn Foundation’s highlights, hosting music and theatre productions from around the world.
3) Cairngorms National Park
Moray encompasses a portion of the staggering Cairngorms National Park, which is nearly twice the size of the Lake District. The park is one of the most popular places for outdoor activities Moray, filled with forests, lochs, mountains and rivers. Boasting five of the six highest mountains in the UK, the Cairngorms is a climbing hub, as well as a snow-sports centre in the winter.
There are dozens of hiking trails ideal for taking in the park’s scenery and wildlife, which includes rare Scottish wildcats. Mountain bikers can explore the Glenlivet bike path, and the rivers, lakes and lochs are great for sailing and canoeing. Try a round of golf, visit the Glenlivet Distillery or ride Scotland’s only funicular railway for mountain-top views.
4) The Malt Whisky Trail
Moray Speyside is home to the largest concentration of malt whisky distilleries in the world. Hop between nine historic sites, including Strathisla, the oldest distillery in the Highlands and visit famous brands like Glen Moray and Glenfiddich. Learn how the brews are made on tours led by expert craftsmen and do some whisky tasting.
Don’t miss the Glenlivet distillery, which produces some of the world’s best-selling whisky brands. As well as tours and tastings, Glenlivet has a visitor centre with museum and café. The Glenfiddich Distillery offers a tasting masterclass, while the award-winning Acorn to Cask exhibition at the Speyside Cooperage takes you through the lifecycle of the traditional cask.
5) Moray castles
For a dose of history, tour some of Moray’s top castles, which range from ruins to stately homes. Duffus Castle, set on a hill near Elgin, is one of the best examples of Scotland’s motte and bailey castles from the 1100s. You can also visit the former castle of the Brodie family near Forres, who were involved in many clan battles during the 15th and 16th century.
Other Moray castle highlights include Balvenie, which dates back to the 1200s and is one of the oldest stone castles in Scotland. You’ll find Auchindoun Castle just outside of Dufftown, the picturesque ruins are set amongst rolling hills and fields. Ballindalloch Castle is a more intact site and belongs to the Macpherson-Grant Family. Tour the stately building, wander through the gardens and visit the tea room and distillery.
6) The Moray Coast Trail
Explore one of Scotland’s best long-distance walking paths, the Moray Coast Trail. This 50-mile-long route starts at Forres and ends in Cullen. Along the way, you’ll see secluded coves, long sandy beaches and cute coastal towns. Enjoy sweeping sea views from cliff tops and look out for the striking Bow Fiddle Rock at Portknockie.
The entire walk takes between three and five days, but the path is also split into sections which you can tackle on a day trip. Stop along the way in seaside towns such as Buckie, as well as pristine Lossiemouth beach. If you’re lucky, you may spot some Bottlenose dolphins and seals along the Moray Coast Trail.
7) Logie Steading
Head to the Findhorn Valley to visit the charming house and gardens at Logie Steading. The collection of sandstone buildings was originally a 1920s model farm set by the River Findhorn. Today, Logie Steading is home to bookstores, a café, art gallery, antiques and vintage clothing shops. Try some tasting at the whisky and wine shop and learn about the history of the Findhorn area at the interpretation centre. There’s also a playpark for kids and walking trails along the river.
Where to stay in Moray
There are hundreds of hotels, B&Bs and campsites in Moray to suit all types of travellers. If you’re looking for a peaceful spot in the heart of the region, ACE Adventures and Hideaways is ideal. Our woodland site is surrounded by fields and lies just eight miles from Forres and within driving distance to the coast, Cairngorms National Park, castles and historical attractions.
There are 10 camping pitches on offer with fire pits and BBQ skillet. Our comfy bell tents are ideal for groups, sleeping up to seven people, with mattresses, wood stoves and fire pit. Guests have access to an outdoor kitchen, as well as toilets and hot showers and there’s a kiosk, electric charging points and wifi at reception.
Looking for more luxury? Our shepherd’s huts are perfect for couples with double beds, gas cooker, wood stove and outdoor fire. Find out more about staying at ACE Hideaways.
