Accommodation
The Malt Whisky Trail is home to an array of wonderful places to stay while you explore the Moray Speyside region. From campsites to luxury hotels and everything in between, The Trail can accommodate groups of all shapes and sizes.
Where you choose to base yourself is up to you, and what kind of thing you enjoy doing. You might prefer to stay within a walking distance to your favourite distillery or whisky bar, and not have to worry about driving. Or you could choose between a coastal stay on the Moray Firth, or the forests and mountains of the Cairngorms further south. None of our sites are more than 50 minutes’ drive from each other, so wherever you choose to stay you will be able to enjoy the best of The Malt Whisky Trail.
Hotels and B&Bs
If you’re staying a short while, then The Trail has welcoming hotels and bed and breakfasts to lay your head.
The Craigellachie Hotel is located further north, and sets a more traditional tone. The large country hotel is a favourite of celebrities. The hotel houses a popular local pub, the Copper Dog, and the world-famous Quaich whisky bar. The hotel is very near the Speyside Cooperage, and the Glenfiddich and Glen Grant distilleries.
The Dowans Hotel in Aberlour is a grand Victorian lodge, restored with a contemporary interior. The hotel features a highly recommended restaurant and excellent whisky bar, and is ideally situated for The Glenlivet and Cardhu distilleries.
Craigellachie Lodge provides spacious and tasteful B&B accommodation for larger groups and is located near the Speyside Cooperage. Recently upgraded, the Lodge now offers a cosy bar and a ‘bites and boards’ menu for light dining.
The Knockomie, near Forres, is a well-preserved inn. The hotel retains many original features, and the ground floor restaurant and whisky bar are popular with the local community. The hotel is perfectly situated for the Glen Moray, Dallas Dhu, and Benromach distilleries.
Cardhu Country House provides a luxurious rural retreat in the heart of Speyside, in Knockando near the Cardhu distillery.
Laggan Farmhouse, in the famous whisky town of Dufftown, provides guests with an authentic country welcome. Traditionally furnished, the farmhouse is a step back in time.
Gowanbrae Bed and Breakfast situated near the centre of Dufftown is a lovely Victorian house, close to all the local amenities and an easy 15 minute walk from Glenfiddich Distillery.
Blervie is perfectly positioned close to Benromach, walking distance (along the Dava Way) to Dallas Dhu, not far from either Glen Moray or Cardhu. The house has 10 luxurious but affordable rooms in a large Historic Environment Scotland listed house that is fully renovated.
Isla Bank House, on the edge of Keith, is perfectly situated for visiting Strathisla. There’s an air of exclusivity, with each of the three suites having its own private dining and lounge space where breakfast is served each morning.
West End Guest House in Moray’s biggest town, Elgin, offers a warm welcome, comfortable bed and tasty breakfast. This late Edwardian villa is set in its own grounds with ample private parking only a short walk from the town’s distillery – Glen Moray.
Self-catering
If you’re taking a little longer to enjoy The Malt Whisky Trail, you may want to consider hiring one of Moray Speyside’s fantastic self-catering venues, or a local Bed & Breakfast.
Cairnty Lodges are set amid beautiful scenery and conveniently located in the heart of Speyside, the luxury log cabins and pods are perfect for small groups and families who are looking for some time-out to restore, relax and recharge amongst nature.
Craggan Outdoors offers good value, comfortable accommodation for groups from two to sixty people in its two bunkhouses and bothy. The site welcomes everybody from couples and families, friends having a party and groups that are combining their stay with activities including cycling and bike and car tours. The Bothy is an accessible property, as it is all on one level for wheelchair access and has a wetroom that is equipped accordingly.
Tucked just 10 minutes outside of Elgin in the heart of Moray, Loch na Bo estate is a truly unique and spectacular property. Sitting beside its own 40 acre loch, in the centre of 800 acres of stunning ancient woodland, Loch na Bo estate carries an unparalleled air of escape and peace.
Boasting picturesque countryside views and just a short drive from Dufftown, Moray Cottages provide the perfect escape for groups and families. There’s plenty of outdoor space, close links to woodland walks and a big welcome for your four-legged friends with their dog-friendly credentials.
Rhynagarrie Mill, near the village of Archiestown, provides unique accommodation in a tastefully converted old mill – perfect for larger parties looking for a Speyside base.
Tullochwood self-catering lodges in Forres are ideal for short breaks and holidays throughout the year. They stand in 28 acres of beautiful native woodland, with Scots pine and silver birch being the principal species.
Weiroch Lodge provides self-catered accommodation in the stunning setting of the Cairngorm National Park, at Ballindalloch, near The Glenlivet distillery.
And if something a bit more unusual is more your speed, The Malt Whisky Trail has plenty to choose from. From distillery cottages to Hobbit holes, and a modern tower house to traditional fishermen’s cottages, you’ll find a home away from home.
Camping and caravan sites
If you’d prefer something a bit more outdoors, then there are a number of beautiful sites to camp along The Malt Whisky Trail.
Club Site at Speyside is only a stone’s throw from The Malt Whisky Trail. Walks and wildlife can all be found in the area around the campsite. Surrounded by trees, the site enjoys a rural position between the Moray coast and Cairngorms mountain range. The site will appeal to those looking for a peaceful and relaxing base for their exploration of the area.
Grantown-On-Spey Caravan Park is set in the heart of the Highlands and within the beautiful Cairngorm National Park. The caravan park is a short stroll away from the little town of Grantown-on-Spey with its interesting independent shops and restaurants. Open all year, Motorhomes, Tents and Static Caravans are all welcome.
Silver Sands Holiday Park at Lossiemouth on Scotland’s Moray Firth coastline is named after the sparkling stretch of beach that runs alongside it. Recently revamped facilities include a free indoor swimming pool, a sauna and a fitness suite. The holiday park is also minutes from the Moray Golf Club and a short distance from Glen Moray and Benromach.
Wester Bonnyton Caravan and Camping Site in Banff, Aberdeenshire is a little further afield but provides fantastic sea views over the Moray Firth, breathtaking sunsets, stunning beaches, wonderful walks, birdwatching, dolphin spotting and more. Holidaymakers can enjoy golfing, fishing and many local attractions from this idyllic corner of North East Scotland. Dogs are welcome. There are static caravans for hire and pitches for caravans, motor homes and tents, all with electric hook-up.