Forres

The whisky distilleries might grab the headlines, but this Morayshire market town has something most Scottish destinations lack - proper breathing space. Forres sits in the Findhorn valley with the Cairngorms rising to the south and coastal lowlands stretching north to the Moray Firth. It's got that unhurried Scottish pace without feeling sleepy.

Rodney's Stone stands right in the town centre, a 9th-century Pictish monument that's survived everything from Viking raids to modern traffic. More rewarding though is heading into the surrounding hills. The Knock of Braemoray offers cracking views across Speyside without the tourist crowds you'll find further south.

South of town, Randolph's Leap cuts a dramatic gorge through the landscape where the River Findhorn crashes over granite rocks. It's a proper Highland scene just 20 minutes from Forres High Street. The walk down from the car park takes about 15 minutes and it's well worth the effort.

Getting here couldn't be easier - Forres sits on the A96 between Aberdeen and Inverness, with regular train connections to both cities. The town makes an excellent base for exploring Speyside's whisky trail without paying Edinburgh prices for accommodation. Most of the surrounding peaks, including Cairn Eney and Shaw Hill, are accessible as day walks from town.

Staying at one of the nearby holiday parks puts you within striking distance of both the Cairngorms and the Moray coast. It's that sweet spot where Highland drama meets Lowland convenience, and the midweek quiet means you'll often have those hill views to yourself.