Rich history and easy access to outdoor adventures make this small sunny town an appealing base.
Located in what is said to be one of the sunniest areas in Scotland, the small Highland town of Forres is blessed with beautiful beaches and steeped in history. It’s home to the 16th-century Brodie Castle, the gardens of which bloom in spring with more than 100 types of daffodil. Forres is located close to the family favourite town of Nairn, set on the Moray Firth, which offers wildlife-watching opportunities, including dolphins, minke whales, seals and a variety of birdlife. There are plenty of nearby opportunities for such activities as sailing, white water rafting and canoeing.
Five miles (eight kilometres) north of Forres, the village of Findhorn spreads around Findhorn Bay, a popular spot for sailing and other water sports. The village has a lovely beach and the nearby stretch of coast and countryside called Culbin Sands, Forest and Findhorn Bay is great for wildlife watching, walking and watersports. Overlooking Findhorn Bay, Findhorn Bay Holiday Park has pitches for tents and tourers, as well as glamping pods, chalets, cabins and static caravans.
A 15-minute drive or train journey east of Forres, the little town of Nairn has three beautiful sandy beaches, as well as two championship golf courses. Family-friendly Nairn Lochloy Holiday Park has pitches for caravans, motorhomes and tents close to the beach. Peaceful Barns Highland offers spacious pitches, as well as a couple of glamping pods and a communal bothy, on a working farm and, nestled in a forest, Nairn Camping and Caravanning Club also has sites for caravans and tents.
Around eight miles (14 kilometres) south, the Findhorn Valley is an off-the-beaten-path glen surrounded by steep cliffs and filled with birdlife, especially raptors such as golden eagles, kestrels and osprey. Here, Ace Hideaways offers campsites surrounded by nature, as well as glamping in spacious bell tents and furnished shepherd's huts.
The Scottish Highlands are spectacular at any time of year, but the weather is at its best from May to September. Peak season, however, brings larger visitor numbers and the dreaded midges—small, persistent biting insects that have ruined many a holiday. For good (although possibly cool) weather, fewer crowds and no midges, aim for a May or September visit. If planning to visit in the height of summer, try to at least avoid school holidays and weekends.