Explore some hidden gems and special places in our local area that are just a little way, off the beaten track.
Culbin Forest https://forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/culbin is a large pine forest stretching along the coast from Nairn to Findhorn Bay. Get ‘off the beaten track’ and explore the network of flat gravel tracks through the forest. Start at the carpark for the waymarked Hill 99 Trail through the forest to the Viewpoint Tower. The reward is breath-taking, with views above the treetops right along the Moray Coast.
Pluscarden Abbey https://www.pluscardenabbey.org/ sits in a secluded glen just nine miles from Forres on the scenic back road to Elgin. Several sections of the building and grounds are open to the public and an exhibition tells the story of the Abbey and its long history. Enjoy the Abbey’s architectural beauty and restful atmosphere including the daily Gregorian Chant sung by the Catholic Benedictine monks who call this place home. There are toilets, a gift shop and parking on site. The Abbey is open every day and there is no admission fee.
The Dava Way https://davaway.org.uk/ is one of Scotland’s Great Trails. This wonderful long distance walking and off-road cycling route follows the old Highland Railway line for twenty four miles between Forres and Grantown through farmland, forest and moorland. On a clear day there are views over the Moray Firth as far as Sutherland and south across the Cairngorm Mountains. If you prefer, you can park at various points and enjoy a shorter section of the trail.
Knockando Wool Mill https://www.kwc.co.uk/ is another hidden gem and well worth the scenic thirty minute drive south from Forres. Nestled in the Spey Valley, this Highland textile mill is nearly two hundred and fifty years old. Experience the sights and sounds of a working Highland woolmill, learn the rich history of the site and browse a bespoke range of woollen throws, scarves and accessories in their shop. The Woolmill is open seasonally.
A short detour on the route to Knockando is Thorabella Farm, https://www.thorabellabuffalo.co.uk/home home to some very unusual Highland animals. Book a tour at this working farm and get up close to the farm’s very special buffalo herd, along with their sheep, goats, wallabies, rabbits and hens. Little ones will also get a quiz Thorabella’s farm shack sells their own produce including buffalo meat, eggs, honey and seasonal vegetables.
Benromach Distillery https://www.benromach.com/tours-tastings in Forres provides a wonderful look into the ancient art of distilling whiskey with tours every day and the opportunity to sample a wee dram of the water of life
Naturally Useful https://www.naturallyuseful.co.uk/ put nurturing good health and wellbeing at the centre of their passion for crafting, nature and gardening. They are part of the larger partnership of education, nature and creative enterprises based at Marcassie Farm in Rafford just outside Forres. Naturally Useful run wonderful range of courses you can book onto and enjoy some creatively inspired activity and spend time in nature!
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