Walk the Moray Coast Trail
Explore the stunning Speyside region by hiking the Moray Coast Trail. If you prefer to earn your dram and enjoy taking in the coastal views then a trip along the Moray might be for you!
What is the Moray Coast Trail?
Running all the way from Forres to Cullen, this 50 mile route takes you along the spectacular Moray Speyside coastline. The hike takes between 3-5 days to complete in its entirety, although those with less time can choose to walk individual sections instead.
Suitable for beginners, the route is fairly straightforward and well signposted. Linking the coastal communities of Findhorn, Burghead and Spey Bay, there are several accommodation options along the route to help break up your journey. Along the way you’ll pass hidden coves, sandy beaches, and if you’re lucky, you may even glimpse dolphins in the Moray Firth!
Moray Coast Trail: How long is the route?
1. Forres to Findhorn (5.6 miles): Start your journey in the historic town of Forres, known for its award-winning floral displays and the ancient Sueno’s Stone. This section is relatively flat and offers gentle walking along quiet backcountry roads and a stretch of pavement that runs alongside the Findhorn Bay Local Nature Reserve.
2. Findhorn to Burghead (8.6 miles): Follow the sandy shoreline from Findhorn to Burghead, where you can explore the remains of a Pictish fort and learn about the town’s history at the Burghead Visitor Centre.
3. Burghead to Lossiemouth (9.5 miles): The route starts with a scenic 2-mile walk to the picturesque village of Hopeman, with its colourful beach huts and lively harbour. From here, the trail continues along the edge of the coast, offering dramatic cliff-top views and the chance to visit Covesea Lighthouse. Lossiemouth, known as the "Jewel of Moray," boasts two stunning beaches and a bustling marina.
4. Lossiemouth to Buckie (15.3 miles): A longer stretch of the trail, taking you past the quiet village of Portgordon. The trail offers stunning views across the Moray Firth and the chance to spot dolphins and other wildlife.
5. Buckie to Cullen (7.5 miles): The final leg of the journey is perhaps the most scenic, passing through the village of Portknockie, home to the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock. Cullen, famous for its beaches and Cullen Skink soup, is the perfect place to end your adventure.
Tips for Walking the Moray Coast Trail
- Respect the countryside: The Moray Coast Trail is a place of natural beauty. Take care to leave no trace, stick to marked paths and avoid disturbing wildlife.
- Pack appropriately: The weather in Scotland can be very changeable, and you don’t want to be caught in a downpour with a few miles of your walk still to go. We recommend layers and a waterproof jacket, plus comfortable footwear, a map, snacks and water.
- When to walk the trail: Walking the Moray Coast Trail is beautiful at any time of year. However, if you are planning to hike the route during November to March, bear in mind that the daylight hours are shorter, and may affect how much ground you are to cover in a single day.
Come and visit us at Speyburn
Whether on route or at the start or end of your adventure we would be delighted to welcome you for a dram and a chance to explore what makes a great Speyside whisky!
In a serene Scottish valley, tucked in amongst the tree-lined banks of the Granty Burn, you’ll find the iconic Speyburn Distillery. It's beautiful stonework and pagoda roof peeking through the trees make it one of the most picturesque distilleries in the region.
Since 1897, Speyburn Single Malt has drawn from these refreshing waters to craft a whisky as inviting as its famous Speyside home. It remains the only distillery to use its crystal clear water in the whisky-making process.
At Speyburn we follow our own course, crafting a whisky with nothing but enjoyment in mind. To allow everyone, everywhere to experience the beautiful simplicity of a well-made whisky.
Come and explore how we make the whisky that speaks for itself!