Visitor Guide

Discover Moray Speyside

The inspiration behind the Discover Moray Speyside visitor guide is simple; a desire to share the culture and heritage that marks Moray out as an experience destination.

This definitive visitor guide is your gateway to a region where world-class tradition meets breathtaking natural beauty. Whether you are here to journey along the legendary Scotland whisky trail, discover the best things to do in Moray, or explore our ancient Pictish heritage, this corner of Scotland offers an experience found nowhere else on earth.

From the “Malt Whisky Capital of the World” to our famous coastline, Best Of Moray Speyside invites you to go beyond the ordinary and uncover the unique soul of the Highlands.

Discover Moray Speyside Visitor Guide | Visitor Guide

The Story Of Us: Past & Present

  • Moray Is… (The Present)
    A sanctuary for the soul and a playground for the bold. Today, Moray is a vibrant tapestry of world-class textiles, artisan food, and breathtaking landscapes—from the Cairngorm mountains to the fertile Laich of Moray. Whether you are dolphin watching at Spey Bay or finding peace on the Speyside Way, Moray is exactly what you need it to be.

  • Moray Was… (The Heritage)
    Our landscape tells a story thousands of years in the making. Explore the medieval “Lantern of the North” in Elgin, the royal charter history of our ancient burghs, and the footprints of Macbeth, High King of Scotland. From Kinloss Abbey to the Pictish Capital at Burghead, the footprints of the past are everywhere. Understanding our heritage is the key to unlocking the magic of the landscape today.

Only In Moray Speyside

The pillars of our region—experiences you won’t find anywhere else.

  • The Malt Whisky Trail
    Step into the spiritual home of whisky in Speyside. Visit world-renowned distilleries like Glenfiddich, The Macallan, and Glenlivet, and watch master craftsmen at the Speyside Cooperage.

  • Moray Legends & Lore
    Where history meets myth. Uncover the real story of the High King Macbeth and the mystical druid sites hidden along our rugged coastline. Every castle has a secret, and every glen has a ghost.

  • Unique Highlights
    Discover world-class distinctions found only here: the birthplace of Cullen Skink, the 9th-century Sueno’s Stone in Forres, the 200-year-old Johnstons of Elgin cashmere mill, and the living tradition of the Speyside Cooperage.

The Moray Grand Tour

Our curated Grand Tour is the ultimate way to experience the diversity of the region. Four routes; One unforgettable journey. Choose a path that matches your passion, or combine them all for the full Moray Speyside experience.

  • Castle to Cathedral to Cashmere
    The Heritage Hub: Journey through the historic heart of Moray. From the majestic ruins of Elgin Cathedral to the world-renowned craftsmanship of Johnstons of Elgin, this route is a masterclass in Scottish culture.
    • Best for: History buffs and shoppers.

  • Beaches and Castles
    The Coastal Classic: Discover where the rugged North Sea meets royal history. Wander the pristine sands of the Moray Firth before stepping into the ancestral halls of Brodie or Ballindalloch. Visit Lossiemouth, Hopeman, and Findhorn.

     

    • Best for: Families and photographers.
  • Speyside
    The Whisky Wilderness: Follow the winding River Spey through the spiritual home of Scotch Whisky. This route takes you deep into the glens that house the world’s most iconic distilleries and a deep dive into Dufftown, Aberlour, and Rothes—the heart of whisky country.
    • Best for: Whisky enthusiasts and nature lovers.
  • Fish to Farm
    The Larder of the North: Taste your way from the bustling harbours to the rolling fertile hills. Sample the freshest seafood in our coastal villages before discovering the rich agricultural roots of our inland communities. A culinary journey through Buckie, Cullen, and Portknockie.

    • Best for: Foodies and slow travelers.

Plan Your Visit

  • What’s On
    Check our guide to the Highland Games in Forres and Aberlour, the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, and local agricultural shows.

  • Travel Tips
    Essential local advice on driving in Moray, our unique micro-climate weather, and reaching us from Inverness or Aberdeen airports.
  • Things To Do In Moray Speyside  

    Your reference point for making the most of what’s on offer – and there really is something for everyone.

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Your visitor experience is important to us. We can help with the information that you might need, before and during your visit, to make informed choices.