Moray, on the east coast of Scotland, has plenty to offer if you want to get off the beaten track on your holiday north of the border.
The region is packed with historic landmarks, world-class golf courses, outdoor attractions, and of course its famous whiskey.
Indeed, whiskey is big business in this area, with Moray’s distilleries accounting for around half of Scotland’s total spirits production. More than 50 distilleries can be found here, some of which produce malts for the well-known world brands Johnnie Walker and The Famous Grouse.
The Malt Whiskey Trail could be a perfect adventure for you if you are a fan of the drink, or just curious to learn more about its production and history. A marked route takes you to some of the best working distilleries in the region, including the historic Dallas Dhu facility, which has been preserved in its original 19th-century condition. Here, and at other distilleries, you’ll have the opportunity to see first-hand how the drink is produced, and you might be lucky enough to sample a sample or two.
Moray is also the setting for Shakespeare’s respected tragic play, Macbeth, and the history of the area is sure to impress you. Why not take a stroll through some of the region’s castle ruins, many of which are nestled among picturesque rolling hills, or visit the more modern Brodie Castle? The 16th-century building, which was a residential home until 2003, is filled with centuries-old works of art and you can also visit its shop and tea room during your stay at a nearby hotel on Scotland’s east coast.
Nature lovers will also find much to impress them in Moray. Those who stay in a hotel in the Highlands are spoiled for choice when it comes to world-class golf courses and places to go hiking and walking. More adventurous types may even want to try camping or caravanning.
Bottlenose dolphins can be seen just off the coast and you can get up close and personal by joining a boat tour. And if scuba diving is your favorite outdoor activity, there’s plenty of fun to be had on Scotland’s east coast.
Whatever type of vacation you’re looking for, Moray is sure to please.