Moray

Lossiemouth Beach

This stunning sandy beach is a popular spot for swimming, surfing, and sunbathing. It's also home to a variety of wildlife, including dolphins and seals.

Ben Rinnes

At 2,759 feet high, Ben Rinnes is the highest peak in Moray. It offers spectacular views of the surrounding countryside and is a popular spot for hiking and mountain biking.

WELCOME TO Moray

Province Overview

Main city

Elgin

AREA

2,238 km²

POPULATION

96,000

Main language

English

Popular

Geography and Tourist Attractions

Information about the province's tourist attractions, including popular destinations, events, and activities.

Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is located in the eastern part of the province and covers a vast area of 4,528 square kilometers. The park is known for its rugged mountains, rolling hills, and vast forests. It is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a variety of activities such as hiking, mountain biking, skiing, and wildlife watching.

Moray Firth

The Moray Firth is a large inlet of the North Sea located on the northern coast of the province. It is a popular destination for whale watching, as it is home to a large population of bottlenose dolphins, harbor porpoises, and minke whales. Visitors can take boat tours to see these magnificent creatures up close.

Glenlivet Estat

The Glenlivet Estate is located in the heart of the Speyside region and covers an area of 23,000 hectares. The estate is known for its stunning natural beauty, including rolling hills, vast forests, and rushing streams. It is also home to the famous Glenlivet Distillery, where visitors can take tours and sample some of Scotland's finest single malt whiskies.

Political

Economy and Government

The economy of the province of Moray in Scotland is diverse, with a mix of industries that includes tourism, agriculture, food and drink, and manufacturing. The tourism industry is a major contributor to the local economy, with visitors drawn to the region's stunning natural beauty, historic landmarks, and whisky distilleries. The agriculture industry is also significant, with a focus on livestock farming and the production of cereals, vegetables, and fruits.

In terms of government, the province of Moray is governed by the Moray Council, which is responsible for providing a range of services to local residents, including education, social services, housing, and transportation. The council is made up of 26 elected members who represent the interests of their constituents and make decisions on issues affecting the local community.

In recent years, the government has invested in infrastructure and economic development initiatives in Moray, including the expansion of the A96 road, the creation of the Moray Growth Deal, and the development of the Highlands and Islands Enterprise Zone. These initiatives are aimed at boosting economic growth, attracting investment, and creating new job opportunities in the province.

History

History and Culture

The province of Moray in Scotland has a rich history and vibrant culture that is shaped by its diverse landscape, strong agricultural heritage, and longstanding connections to the whisky industry.

In terms of history, the region has been inhabited for thousands of years, with evidence of human settlement dating back to the Neolithic era. The province played an important role in the Pictish Kingdom, and it was later settled by the Norse and the Scots. The region is home to many historic landmarks, including the ruins of Elgin Cathedral and the fortified tower houses of the Clan Gordon.

The culture of Moray is deeply rooted in the traditions and customs of its people. The region has a strong farming heritage, with many festivals and events celebrating rural life and agriculture. The whisky industry is also an important part of the culture, with the region producing some of the finest single malt whiskies in the world.

In addition to its agricultural and whisky traditions, Moray is also home to a thriving arts and cultural scene. The region has a number of galleries, museums, and theaters, and it hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the year, including the Spirit of Speyside Whisky Festival, the Findhorn Bay Festival, and the Speyfest Music Festival.

HOTELS

The Dowans Hotel

The Dowans Hotel is a luxurious hotel located in the heart of Speyside, surrounded by picturesque countryside and whisky distilleries. The hotel offers elegant rooms and suites, a fine-dining restaurant, and a bar serving an extensive selection of whiskies.

The Craigellachie Hotel

The Craigellachie Hotel is a historic hotel located in the village of Craigellachie, overlooking the River Spey. The hotel has been recently renovated and offers stylish rooms, a restaurant serving locally sourced cuisine, and a bar with over 900 whiskies.

The Station Hotel

The Station Hotel is a charming hotel located in the town of Rothes, in the heart of the Speyside whisky region. The hotel offers comfortable rooms, a traditional Scottish restaurant, and a bar serving a wide selection of local and international beers and whiskies.

RESTAURANTS

The Seafood Restaurant

The Seafood Restaurant is a renowned dining establishment located in the coastal town of Lossiemouth. The restaurant specializes in fresh seafood caught off the shores of the Moray Firth and served in a variety of delicious dishes.

The Copper Dog

The Copper Dog is a popular restaurant located within the Craigellachie Hotel. The restaurant offers a range of classic Scottish dishes, including locally sourced meats and seafood, served in a warm and inviting atmosphere.

The Drouthy Cobbler

The Drouthy Cobbler is a trendy gastropub located in the town of Elgin. The restaurant serves a variety of delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, including Scottish beef, seafood, and vegetarian options. The pub also has an extensive selection of beers, wines, and whiskies, and hosts regular live music events.