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Warm Weather Spots of The Malt Whisky Trail

Posted on 26th August 2019

Summer is nearing its end, but that doesn’t mean the good weather has to stop. To guarantee you catch the last of any warm days before Autumn, we have created a few warm weather spots for you to visit. Follow our Malt Whisky Trail and discover our five ‘hotspots’ where you can enjoy the remaining sunny weather in Scotland. 

Starting us off is the unlikely choice of the shady Culbin Forest. Situated just outside of Forres and at the beginning of our Malt Whisky Trail, the forest nears our Benromach Distillery. Hugging the coast and providing much needed shade during hot weather spells, Culbin Forest is the perfect spot to explore on a sunny day. Its trails are accessible by foot or bike and offer long walks, amateur foraging and beautiful sights. A must-do is a visit to the Hill 99 Tower which offers panoramic views of the forest. As the light breaks through the trees, a beautiful glimmer can be seen over Easter Ross. 

Continuing along this coastal road, we arrive at the beautiful Sunnyside Beach. Only accessible by a coastal path – a terrain made easier in good weather – this beach offers a quiet and secluded spot to enjoy the hot weather. Located just east of Buckie and near our Strathisla Distillery, this is the perfect spot for a cool down. Whether it’s delving into rock pools or sunbathing on the sandy shore, this beach provides a unique experience and the potential for a dip in the cool North Sea.  

Keeping to the coast, perhaps you’re looking to combine history with the outdoors. Look no further than Duffus Castle, the next destination on our sunny spot list. Situated just outside Elgin and near our Glen Moray Distillery, the castle offers centuries of history and is free and accessible all year round. Basking in the sun, exploring the 12th century motte-and-bailey castle with its historical information boards and discovering prime picnic spots are key things to do here. Sit amongst the ruins and imagine where lords and ladies would have banqueted inside the sunkissed walls.

Mountain bike

Finally, what is a bit of sun without some views? If you’re looking for a little challenge, why not climb Ben Aigan. The climb is 8km/5 miles long and takes roughly 2-3 hours so therefore caters to a mixture of athletic abilities. The climb is worth it as the top of Ben Aigan offers panoramic views of Speyside and the Sutherland hills. For the more adventurous, there are high class bike trails that make their way through various routes up the hill. Come up one path and return another. After your climb, why not finish with a cup of tea and a slice of cake in the GlenGrant cafe and take the opportunity to wander around the distillery’s stunning restored Victorian garden as well as visiting for a tour and a dram. 

So pack a picnic, bring the sunglasses, and momentarily put that rain jacket away. Enjoy the last of the summer sun with these hotspots along The Malt Whiskey Trail!