Fancy a day by the sea, a woodland walk or a visit to a Speyside distillery? Moray has plenty of choice, with historic towns, lovely beaches and places to explore from your lodge near Forres.
From Forres, you can explore the Moray coast, the Speyside Whisky Trail and the surrounding countryside during your stay.
Moray is often overlooked compared to other parts of Scotland, and that’s exactly what makes it special. You’ve got wide, quiet beaches, forests that feel untouched, and some of the world’s most well-known whisky distilleries — all without the crowds you’ll find elsewhere.
For most visitors, Moray offers a balance that’s difficult to find elsewhere in Scotland — enough to explore each day, but relaxed enough that you never feel rushed.
Tullochwood Lodges near Forres provide a peaceful woodland base for exploring the area, with easy access to the Moray coast, the Speyside Whisky Trail, and the wider Highlands.
If you’re looking for a quiet woodland base near Forres, you can check live availability for Tullochwood Lodges in Moray here.
What is Moray best known for?
Moray is best known for its Speyside whisky distilleries, its unspoilt coastline along the Moray Firth, and its easy access to outdoor activities such as walking, wildlife watching and exploring historic towns like Forres and Elgin.
It’s a place where you can spend the morning walking through woodland or along a river, and the afternoon on the coast or visiting a distillery — all within a short drive.
The area’s appeal comes from how closely these different landscapes sit together — coastline, forest and whisky country all centred around the Moray and Forres area.
Top Things to Do in Moray
If you’re planning a trip and looking for the best things to do in Moray, the list below covers the key experiences that most visitors prioritise — from whisky and coastal walks to nature and local attractions.
Moray isn’t about one single attraction — it’s about variety. You can shape each day differently depending on whether you want to explore the coast, visit distilleries or spend time outdoors.
Whisky & Distilleries
Moray includes much of the Speyside whisky region, with well-known distilleries close enough to combine during your stay.
Even if you’re not particularly into whisky, the distilleries themselves are worth seeing — from traditional buildings to modern architectural designs.
Many visitors choose Moray specifically for whisky tourism, as it allows multiple distillery visits in a single day without long drives.
If you are planning a whisky-focused visit, see our detailed guide to the Speyside whisky trail
- Drive the Speyside Whisky Trail – One of the most popular things to do in Moray, allowing you to visit multiple world-famous distilleries within a short drive of Forres, all set within classic Speyside scenery.
- Visit Benromach Distillery (Forres) – A traditional Speyside distillery located in Forres, offering a more personal and accessible whisky experience just minutes from Tullochwood Lodges.
- Visit Glenfiddich Distillery – One of the most recognised whisky distilleries in the world, offering well-run tours and tastings in the heart of Speyside.
- Visit The Macallan Estate – Known for its striking modern architecture and premium whisky experiences, making it worth visiting even beyond the tasting itself.
Coast & Beaches
The Moray Coast is one of the main reasons people visit the area, offering wide sandy beaches, coastal walks and frequent wildlife sightings along the Moray Firth.
Beaches stretch for miles, often with very few people around, giving the coastline a quiet and open feel.
From Forres, the coast is typically within 20 minutes, making it easy to visit multiple locations such as Findhorn, Lossiemouth and Cullen during your stay.
- Walk the Moray Coast Trail – A scenic coastal route combining cliffs, beaches and wildlife, offering some of the best walking opportunities in Moray.
- Visit Findhorn Beach – One of the most accessible coastal spots near Forres, with wide open sands, views across the Moray Firth, and plenty of space for walking, wildlife spotting or simply relaxing.
- Visit Burghead Beach – A quieter coastal location ideal for walking, where dolphins may sometimes be seen offshore.
- Walk at Lossiemouth East Beach – One of the longest beaches on the Moray Coast, perfect for uninterrupted walks, with open views and a strong sense of space that defines this part of Scotland.
- Explore Hopeman Harbour – A small and picturesque harbour setting, ideal for a short coastal walk, photography or a more sheltered stop by the sea.
- Walk at Covesea Lighthouse – When a guided tour has been booked in advance, climb the lighthouse and take in panoramic views over the Moray Firth; tower access involves 144 steps and two fixed ladders.
Nature & Outdoors
Moray is ideal for outdoor activities, with forests, rivers and open landscapes providing a wide range of walking and cycling opportunities.
One of the advantages of staying near Forres is how quickly you can reach these quieter outdoor locations.
Many of the best walking routes are accessible within a short drive, allowing you to explore without needing extensive planning.
- Explore Culbin Forest – One of the largest woodland areas in Moray, offering a mix of walking and cycling trails through forest and dunes, with frequent opportunities to spot wildlife.
- Walk Along the River Findhorn – A quieter, more scenic setting with riverside paths, woodland and open Highland views all in one route.
- Explore Roseisle Forest – A coastal forest that combines woodland trails with direct access to the beach, making it ideal for varied walks.
- Visit Randolph’s Leap – A well-known viewpoint along the River Findhorn, where the river narrows dramatically, creating one of the more striking natural features in the Moray area.
- Walk up Cluny Hill and visit Nelson’s Tower – A short but rewarding climb offering panoramic views over Forres and the surrounding Moray landscape.
Towns & Local Attractions
Moray’s towns have plenty of stories to discover, from Forres and Elgin to the whisky country around Dufftown.
Explore the landmarks below for a taste of the area’s history.
- Explore Forres – A well-kept and easy-going town just 10 minutes from the lodges, with parks, independent shops and cafés, making it a natural base during your stay in Moray.
- Visit Sueno’s Stone – A remarkable 7-metre Pictish cross-slab described by Historic Environment Scotland as Scotland’s tallest and most complex piece of early medieval sculpture.
- Visit Elgin Cathedral – One of the most impressive historic ruins in the north of Scotland, offering a strong sense of the area’s history.
- Visit Brodie Castle – A classic Scottish castle with well-maintained gardens, particularly worth visiting in spring and summer.
- Explore Dufftown – Known as the “malt whisky capital of the world,” and a key stop within the Speyside whisky region.
- Discover Pluscarden Abbey – A peaceful working monastery set in quiet countryside, offering a very different, slower-paced experience.
Wildlife Experiences
The Moray Firth is one of the best locations in the UK for spotting dolphins and coastal wildlife, particularly around Findhorn and Burghead.
- Dolphin Watching on the Moray Firth – The Moray Firth is a well-known place for land-based dolphin watching, especially in summer.
- Visit the WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre – Learn about local wildlife and ask the WDC team about recent sightings; its website has seasonal opening times.
- Visit Spey Bay – A coastal nature reserve known for birdlife, open views and a quieter atmosphere than more popular spots.
- Look for seals at Findhorn Bay – A peaceful shoreline where seals may sometimes be seen fishing near the river mouth.
Is Moray a good place for a holiday?
Yes — Moray is an excellent place for a holiday if you’re looking for a quieter alternative to busier Scottish destinations while still having plenty to see and do. It offers a combination of coastline, countryside and access to the Highlands, making it suitable for both relaxing breaks and more active stays.
Where to Stay in Moray?
Staying near Forres puts the Moray coast, Speyside and inland attractions within easy reach.
Tullochwood Lodges offer dog-friendly self-catering accommodation in Moray, set within peaceful woodland just minutes from Forres. Explore the Speyside Whisky Trail, the Moray coast and nearby Highland attractions during your stay. You can check lodge availability and book live and securely here.
Why Stay Near Forres?
Forres has parks, cafés and independent shops to enjoy between days exploring the Moray coast, Speyside and surrounding countryside.
Staying here means less time travelling and more time enjoying the area.
Frequently Asked Questions About Moray
These are some of the most common questions people ask when planning a visit to Moray.
What are the best things to do in Moray?
The best things to do in Moray include visiting the Speyside Whisky Trail, exploring the Moray coast, walking in Culbin Forest, and discovering historic towns such as Forres and Elgin.
Is Moray good for walking holidays?
Yes — choose from coastal trails, forest walks and riverside paths, with plenty of variety for your days out.
Are there dog-friendly activities in Moray?
Yes — there are beaches, forests and walking routes to enjoy with your woof, with plenty to explore and sniff along the way.
How far is Moray from the Highlands?
Moray sits on the edge of the Highlands, making it a great base for exploring both coastal and inland scenery.
Where should I stay in Moray?
Tullochwood Lodges near Forres provide a peaceful woodland base with easy access to the region’s main attractions.
Explore More Tullochwood Local Guides
You can check live availability for Tullochwood Lodges in Moray here.
