Moray Coast In Scotland Aims To Be The Next Traveler Hotspot

When they think of the UK, many travelers imagine rain, chilly weather and grey skies. However, this doesn’t apply to everywhere. In fact, one beautiful coastal region in Scotland aims to become the next traveler hotspot.  A narrow inlet of scenic coastline called the Moray Coast lies in the northeast of Scotland. Dubbed the Moray Coast, its closest major city is Inverness. Read on to find out what is so different about this region of Scotland and why it is such an underrated destination.

What is different about the Moray Coast?

This scenic region in Scotland is different because of a unique weather pattern that gives it the edge. Here a rare weather phenomenon known as a rain shadow occurs, resulting in warmer, drier sunny weather with less rainy days. This makes the Moray Coast a wonderful destination outside of the rest of the country.

Due to the geography of the Moray Coast, there are fewer strong winds, giving visitors pleasant sea breezes instead. However, it is one of those places you likely wouldn’t come across accidentally. While it is relatively remote and off the beaten path, it is easier to get there than you might think. One way is with Scotland’s Service 35 bus, a great way to travel with free Wi-Fi and USB ports.

The bus runs north through Aberdeenshire, joining the coast in Banff, and then continuing through to Elgin. Meanwhile, traveling on the bus lets you relax and enjoy looking out the window at the gorgeous Scottish scenery along the way. Find out more about the bus and its route here.

What does the Moray Coast offer?

Besides the idyllic beaches, one of the top attractions on the Moray Coast is the bottlenose dolphins. Authorities estimate that around 200 bottlenose dolphins live in the area, alongside minke whales, porpoises and seals. This makes the coastline a wonderful place for animal lovers. In fact, right now there are likely more dolphin sightings than people on the beaches.

However, it isn’t just about gorgeous beaches, as the coast is home to many quaint fishing villages, including Findochty, Portknockie and Portsoy. The old villages still feature the traditional fishermen’s cottages of the past lining the roads to the beach. Meanwhile, it is relatively easy to find a cozy bed & breakfast, or even a stay in an Airbnb. Find out more about the villages on this travel website.

Hiking the Moray Coast Trail

To truly enjoy this glorious coast, hike part of the 50-mile Moray Coast Trail across the coastlines. The trail heads out from Cullen all the way to Forres with a number of access points along the way with beautiful views and landscapes.

Visit castles as you go

Should you start your journey to the Moray Coast from Inverness, some of the country’s best castles are a definite stop-and-see experience.

Try something different on your next visit to Scotland – head to the Moray Coast and discover what all the fuss is about and why people want to make it the next tourist coastal hotspot.