With its whisky, history and adventure, Elgin is a fine place to stop between Aberdeen and Inverness.


As it is a stop on the highly popular North Coast 500 driving route, Elgin has a variety of accommodation options. One of the best for campers is Glampods, a 10-minute drive from Elgin. The glamping pod is located in a rural area surrounded by Highland cows and Valias Blacknose sheep.
A 20-minute drive west of Elgin, Findhorn is the starting point for the Moray Coast Trail, a 50-mile (80-kilometre) route that follows the Moray coastline all the way to Cullen. Findhorn Bay Holiday Park overlooks the bay and is close to a golden beach. As well as pitches for tents and tourers, the site has glamping pods, cabins and static caravans.
The town’s three sandy beaches make Nairn a favourite of travellers, and there are also opportunities for walking, biking and golfing. A 30-minute drive east of Elgin, family-friendly Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park has pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents. On a working farm on the banks of the River Nairn, Barns Highland offers spacious hardstanding and grass pitches, as well as a couple of glamping pods.
Elgin and the surrounding area is one of the sunniest places in Scotland. For soaking up good weather and enjoying the opportunities afforded by extended daylight hours, the best time to visit the area is from May through August. This is the busiest season, however, so it’s a good idea to avoid the school summer holidays in July and August if possible. Although the weather will be cooler, you can avoid crowds by visiting in April or September.