There are few areas of Scotland that offer such a wide and interesting range of attractions and historical interests as Moray and the north-eastern coast of Scotland.

And Forres has more than its fair share to warrant it as a great place to stay.

Moray has more than 50 whisky distilleries, and is home to the world’s only Malt Whisky Trail.

There are three distilleries here, Benromach, Dallas Dhu and Glenburgie, and each has its own unique flavour and story.

Local history

The local area is steeped in history dating back to pre-historic times. Perhaps the most notable historical landmark is the 22-foot carved Pictish stone, the tallest of its kind, with detailed carving on all four sides.

For those of you that know your Shakespeare, Forres is mentioned in Macbeth. Before he became king of Scotland in 1040 he ruled over Moray from his castle in the town. The stronghold was originally sited at the west end of Forres high street known as Castlehill.

The Moray Coast

The Moray Coast is one of world-class beauty. In fact, it has been voted one of the top 12 coastlines of the world by National Geographic magazine.

An uninterrupted sandy beach stretches from Findhorn Bay to Burghead, and although popular with locals, it is so large you can find your own space every time you go.

The coastal waters are abundant with wildlife and you can regularly see bottlenose dolphins, porpoises, whales, sea birds and seals. North 58 Sea Adventures operate sight-seeing boat tours from Findhorn village, and these provide the perfect viewing platform for wildlife lovers, The local guides know the coastline well and take you right into the places where you are most likely to see marine wildlife.

Adventure-seekers

If you like the feel of an adrenaline rush, then you’ll find two local centres have got all you need to keep the blood pumping through your veins.

The Loft Activity Centre and Ace Adventure both offer an amazing selection of things to do, such as whitewater rafting, paintball, laser tag and disc golf. Both offer camping facilities such as wigwams and bell tents.

Golf

If golf is your thing, then there are two fine 18-hole golf courses in the area, Forres Golf Club and Kinloss Country Golf Club.

Forres Swimming Pool and Fitness Centre

If you prefer your water-based activities under cover, then Forres has a lovely heated swimming pool and fitness centre right in the town.

As well as the swimming pool, there is also a fitness room with cardio and weight training equipment, sauna, steam-room and showers.

And there’s more…

If you’re interested in taking Yoga, Martial Arts, Badminton, or Latin American Dance classes, check the schedule at Forres House Community Centre.

Forres is blessed with many sporting facilities, including football fields, a cricket pitch, two bowling greens, squash courts, all-weather tennis courts, small bore rifle shooting, and a community centre which caters for indoor sports such as badminton, archery, gymnastics, bowling and basketball.

The town also has a Highland League Football Club, Forres Mechanics, a junior league club, Forres Thistle, and let us not forget the Welfare League and the Soccer Sevens.

Retail therapy

For the shopaholics, why not browse one of our visitor centres such as Logie Steading and Brodie Countryfare, or the range of independent shops on Forres High Street.