11 Best Villages on The Moray Firth
Are you planning a trip to the Moray Firth and looking for the loveliest villages to visit? My guide to the best places along the Moray Firth includes the iconic harbour villages, what to see, and where to stay.
The fishing villages along the Moray Firth are, without doubt, some of the loveliest in Scotland.
Dotted along the coast and overlooking the ocean, each destination is totally unique. Some villages are perched high on the cliffs, whilst others nestle on the water’s edge. A few are quiet communities, others bustling little places. Plus, amongst Moray’s villages you’ll also discover breathtaking beaches and stunning coastal paths.
Traditional stone cottages and beautiful, white-washed buildings are commonplace too, usually wrapped around photogenic streets and picture-perfect harbours. Colourful fishing boats shelter amongst the old walls, and neatly stacked lobster pots are a testament to the fishing heritage that continues today.
Perhaps that’s why the villages along the Moray Firth, just like Fife’s East Neuk, encapsulate so perfectly that wonderful feeling of being by the seaside.
I recently visited the Moray Firth villages and as you can probably tell, totally fell in love! In this guide you’ll find my favourite Moray villages and towns, including everything you need to plan the perfect break to this wonderful part of Scotland.
What to do in the Moray Firth villages
Spend time wandering on coastal trails, looking out for the resident Moray dolphins. Explore too the cute cafes, ice cream shops, bakeries, and lovely independent stores. Then there is the most delicious seafood to gorge on - offering true sea-to-fork menus with the freshest, local ingredients.
That’s why I love the Moray Firth coast so much. It’s one of those ‘choose your own adventure’ destinations, where you can do as much or as little as you want.
And, unlike so many other parts of Scotland, you can discover it all without a throng of tourists. Indeed, there’s a distinct low-key vibe in these pretty harbour villages that’s hard to beat, a secret haven that encourages a slower pace.
Where is the Moray Firth?
The Moray Firth forms part of Scotland’s north-east coast, around an hour’s drive north of Aberdeen. The Moray Firth (a fjord-like sea inlet) starts around Fraserburgh and finishes in Inverness, though neither of these are considered typical Moray destinations. Instead, you’ll find the Moray Firth villages spanning the coastline in between, connected by a winding cliff top road.
Getting to the Moray Firth Villages
We visited the Moray Firth as part of a bigger north-east road trip, passing through Aberdeenshire, Banffshire, and Morayshire on our coastal journey. There is public transport in the area, but as with many of Scotland’s destinations, the best way to explore Moray’s villages fully is by car.
Or strap on your walking boots – the 80km waymarked Moray Coastal Trail connects many of the Firth’s coastal communities.
Whatever you choose, below you’ll find our pick of the best Moray Firth villages (running from west to east), and a Moray Firth map to help you plan your trip.
The Prettiest & best Moray Firth villages
When it comes to the Moray Firth, there’s a lot to cover. Distances between the coastal villages are usually short (around 15 minutes or so drive) and there’s plenty to see along the way. So, give yourself plenty of time to stop and explore Moray’s beautiful coastline - the sandy beaches, lighthouses, and incredible sea views.
1. Pennan
The first village on our trip, Pennan is an iconic part of Moray’s heritage. Home to the traditional, white-washed fishing cottages the Moray Firth is known for, a century old harbour with a café and restaurant, and opportunity to spot dolphins & seals from the pebble beach, it’s the perfect seaside escape.
Pick up tea & cake from the Coastal Cuppie and go for a hike along the coastal trail to see the sandstone caves and arches.
2. Crovie & Gardenstown
Sheltered in Gamrie Bay and considered Europe’s best preserved old fishing villages, the communities of neighbouring Crovie & Gardenstown are certainly one of the most unique Moray destinations. There’s no road into Crovie, so you’ll need to walk down the steep hill to visit this pretty string of houses by the sea. Whilst neighbouring Gardenstown’s old cottages are built into the cliffs, tumbling down to the old harbour.
Both picturesque spots, you don’t want to miss these incredible villages.
3. Portsoy
When it comes to the Moray Firth, Portsoy is possibly my favourite village. It has the oldest harbour on the coast, with stone walls that date back to 1692. It’s a real gem, with colourful fishing boats and traditional cottages surrounding the harbour. Take a stroll out on the stone paths for the best view of the village.
Whilst you’re here, don’t miss the delicious Portsoy Ice Cream and the Shore Inn for a harbourside lunch.
4. Sandend
The wee community of Sandend dates to the 17th century and the pocket-sized village is beyond lovely. It’s most famous for its award-winning beach which slopes gently into the sea - at low tide, the soft sands seem to go on forever. The ocean swells are appreciated most by surfers, as Sandend is considered one of the UK’s best surfing spots. Amidst the sandy embankments you’ll also find second world war ruins, with remnants of defences dotted around the bay.
The ideal place to spend a sunny day, bring a picnic from nearby Portsoy or Cullen and embrace the seaside atmosphere.
5. Cullen
A thriving coastal village and former Royal burgh, visiting beautiful Cullen is a must-see on a Moray Firth trip. On our road trip here, I was totally smitten! From a traditional harbour to cute cottages, quirky stores, quaint winding streets, famous ice cream shop, and a sprawling beach, Cullen has it all.
The village is split into two parts, the pretty waterfront of Seatown, whilst New Cullen sits just behind. Be sure to visit Cullen beach for sunrise or sunset; the colours and endless horizon are breathtaking.
Cullen is the perfect place to base yourself for a few days, with incredible restaurants and plenty accommodation to choose from.
6. Portknockie
When it comes to the Moray coast, few of the fishing villages are as picturesque as lovely Portknockie. The clifftop community overlooks a 17th century harbour and is still home to a small fleet of fishing boats catching crab and lobster. It makes sense then that you’ll find the most delicious fish & chips here – the Portknockie Chip Shop is a must!
Once in Portknockie, spend time enjoying the natural wonders. Famed for its stunning sea views, take a short walk to the Bow Fiddle Rock, a sea arch shaped in a fiddle bow by the pounding waves. It’s a true highlight and the scenic clifftop makes a good spot for a picnic.
7. Findochty
A bustling fishing port for hundreds of years, nowadays the quaint harbour at the centre of this community is usually filled with small yachts and pleasure boats. The village however has lost none of its charm and the gently curving Findochty Beach has some the whitest sand in the area. Whilst you’re here pop into the Admirals Inn for lunch or a beer in the harbourside garden.
8. Buckie
More small town than village in comparison to others on the coast, Buckie has several restaurants, familiar stores, and other amenities. Still a lovely place to visit, highlights are a spectacular beach and plenty opportunities to take in those sea views. Don’t miss Bijou by the Sea, a favourite local waterfront lunch spot.
9. Lossiemouth
Often referred to as the ‘jewel of the Moray Firth’, Lossiemouth is a popular village with lots to offer. Much like Cullen, Lossie (as it’s known to the locals) is a great home base with tons of restaurants, cafes, and stores to enjoy amidst its old stone streets.
After you explore the village, spend time soaking in the scenery. Lush countryside meets two glorious beaches and Lossiemouth’s rolling sand dunes are a highlight. The best way to experience the coast is a walk to Covesea Lighthouse or the circular East Beach walk. This is also a good place to take a boat trip in search of the iconic Moray dolphins and seals.
10. Hopeman
A delightful wee village, we recommend walking some of the coastal trail from Hopeman to Lossiemouth. Starting in the harbour, you’ll soon pass Hopeman’s colourful seaside huts before heading up onto the cliffs. The uninterrupted views across the sea are stunning but the real gem is Cove Bay, a secluded beach with the whitest sand.
11. Burghead
Located at the western end of the Moray Firth coast, jutting out on a peninsula, Burghead is surrounded by water on three sides. There’s a sweeping beach to explore, a lovely harbour, and lots of gorgeous coastal paths. But what brings many to Burghead is the promise of the Moray Firth dolphins – this is one of the best places on the coast to spot them, so remember to bring your binoculars.
Where to stay on the Moray Firth
There are lots of options of places to stay along the Moray Firth coast and accommodation for all budgets. If you’re staying in the area for a few nights, we’d recommend basing yourself in one of the villages. Our ‘where to stay on the Moray Firth’ blog is a good source of inspiration, but these are some of our favourites:
Cullen Bay Hotel: A lovely hotel and excellent restaurant with wonderful views over the Moray Firth. Close to town, there’s also a breathtaking beach just over the road. Check price & availability here.
Pennan Inn: The rooms are simple but the location in the heart of Pennan’s historic village is wonderful, the views are gorgeous, it has excellent reviews, is well-priced and breakfast is included. Check price & availability here.
