Guest Blog by Seasgair Lodges
There is a magic to visiting Nairn and the Moray Coast out of season, you easily mix with the locals, or cosy up and watch the sea crashing on the shore and the best bits in my opinion are those long walks on a deserted beach. In those moments there is nothing but me and the fresh air in my lungs. Of course a mindful walk on the beach is not everyone’s ideal break so let me share some of the other perfect ways to enjoy the Moray Coast at any time of the year…
When visiting Nairn and the Moray Coast it is perfect that thanks to its very own micro-climate, Nairn gets more sunshine and less rain than other towns in the area, making it the perfect place to stay year round.
Golf –
The micro-climate in Nairn is particularly suited to golf, so much so that Nairn has two 18-hole championship courses, Nairn Dunbar Golf Course and then The Nairn Golf Course, which you can see from the window of Fairways. If that wasn’t enough you can visit more than 30 other courses within a 60 mile radius, it really is a golfers paradise.
Dolphin spotting –
The high ramparts at Fort George make it a great place to catch a glimpse of bottlenose dolphins along the Nairn and Moray Coast. You can see right over the bay to Chanonry Point which is less than a mile across the Moray Firth and the nearby village of Ardersier, another place where dolphins are seen on a regular basis.
Brodie Castle –
Acres of gentle Moray countryside surround the rose-coloured Brodie Castle. Step back in time on a guided tour to the castle’s glory days, when the Brodie family were one of Scotland’s most prominent families. If you have children with you, the Playful Garden at Brodie Castle is full of excitement for all the family. It is home to a fascinating menagerie of characters inspired by the castle’s quirky and colourful history, including Scotland’s biggest bunny sculpture.
Spa Day –
The Golf View is a short walk from Fairways and recommended by us and previous guests for the best local spa day experience. The Spa, pool and hot tub all overlook the sea and you can even pop in for a cold water dip, before running back to the warmth of the hot tub. They also offer some great packages to include lunch or afternoon tea.
Wester Hardmuir Farm Shop –
One of the best things about travelling is experiencing the local food, this always seems a bit more tricky if you are travelling within the UK but I have always found that local farm shops give you a real insight into local delights and you certainly find tastier produce than the supermarket! The Wester Hardmuir Farm Shop is well stocked with a range of seasonal produce, baking and even apple juice made with their own apples.
Beaches –
If you are staying at Fairways you can walk from the house to the beach in about 3 minutes! If you are looking to explore Nairn and the Moray Coast further, you are really spoilt for choice but a few of my favourites are what the locals call the ‘secret beach’. It is a short walk to reach the sand but it is worth every second. Another option is to drive along the coast and head to Roseisle, this lovely sandy beach has trees along the sandy dunes and stretches for miles in either direction.
What about getting there I hear you say, all this talk of enjoying the moment and chilled out moments but then we have to drive… but what if I told you it is only three and a half hours from the central belt. Embrace the drive and take time to listen to your favourite playlist or even a couple of podcasts. As life is all about balance, I suggest stopping at the Hermitage to visit Full Circle Donuts for a mid drive treat! You could also grab the train and sit back and watch the countryside go by. However you get here, I look forward to seeing you at Seasgair Lodges soon!