Roseisle beach viewpoint

The car park sits right at the edge, and you're out of the vehicle before the engine's properly off. Roseisle beach viewpoint delivers what it promises - a proper vantage point over the Moray Firth with the beach sprawling below, golden and wide when the tide's out. The walk down takes about ten minutes if you're not fussed, less if you're keen. The sand itself is fine stuff, and on a clear day you can see right across the water. What strikes you most is how quiet it feels - you won't find queues here, which is refreshing.

This works best for walkers and anyone who enjoys a decent coastal stretch without the faffing about of a seaside town. Photographers get genuine value from the light, especially late afternoon. Families with young kids might find the walk back up a bit much on a hot day, and there's nothing to actually do once you're down there except walk and look, which suits some people and bores others rigid.

The viewpoint itself is free and accessible year-round, though winter winds can be fierce. Give yourself an hour minimum if you're going down to the beach proper. Forres is nearby for supplies and lunch if you've timed it badly. If you're based at The Loft Glamping and Camping - just 2.6 miles away - this makes an easy morning outing before heading elsewhere. It's straightforward enough: go, look, walk about, come back. No surprises, which is either the whole point or a bit underwhelming depending on what you're after.