RSPB Fairy Glen

The Fairy Glen near Fortrose is one of those Scottish woodland spots that genuinely rewards a quiet morning visit. It's a small ravine with a burn running through it, surrounded by conifers and moss-covered rocks - the sort of place that feels properly ancient without actually being particularly historic. The RSPB manages it as a nature reserve, so you're here for the birds and the woodland creatures rather than grand views.

The walk itself is modest. You follow a path down into the glen - nothing arduous - and spend perhaps thirty to forty minutes wandering through the trees, listening for blackbirds and spotting the occasional roe deer if you're lucky and quiet enough. The moss alone is worth photographing if you're into that sort of thing. There's a real sense of being removed from the world, even though Fortrose is just up the road.

It's excellent for families with younger children who like exploring without the commitment of a proper mountain walk. Older kids might find it a touch tame unless they're genuinely interested in woodland birds. The light is best in late morning when it filters through the canopy properly.

If you're staying at Fortrose Bay Campsite - which sits right on the Moray Firth coast - the Fairy Glen makes an easy afternoon detour before heading back for fish and chips in the village. Free to visit and no time pressure, which is exactly how woodland wandering should be. Go when it's been dry; it gets boggy otherwise.