The Road Less Travelled

Escape the Crowds with a Quiet Drive Along Scotland’s Moray Coast

"In Scotland, the road less travelled doesn't lead you away from the story—it takes you deeper into it."

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Today’s email presented by

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Sunrise at Bow fiddle rock on the north coast of Scotland - Shutterstock

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In today’s email:-

• The Road Less Travelled

• Discover Amazing Scotland By Rail

• Around the Web: Coastal Views and Cullen Skink; Natural arch that resembles the bow of a fiddle; Scotland Never Leaves You and more…

• Everything you need to know about visiting the Scottish Highlands and the Isle of Skye

• Experiences Likely To Sell Out

• 🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

• From Love Scotland Community: “I've never been to Scotland but l know it's in my blood…”

• Scottish Food You Will Love: Cullen Skink soup - Traditional Scottish recipe

• Coo Wee: The Moray Coast - Road Tripping Scotland

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The Road Less Travelled

If you're looking for a scenic Scottish road trip without the tourist traffic of the North Coast 500, head east to the Moray Coast. This underrated stretch of coastline runs between Inverness and Aberdeen and offers golden sands, dramatic cliffs, and some of Scotland’s most charming seaside villages. Here, you’ll find Cullen—birthplace of the hearty Cullen Skink soup—and Portsoy, famed for its historic harbour and creamy ice cream. The beaches are quiet, the pace is slow, and there’s a good chance you’ll spot dolphins playing offshore.

What makes the Moray Coast even more special is its unique microclimate—often drier and sunnier than much of the Highlands. Along the route, you can visit the clifftop ruins of Findlater Castle, explore the region’s whisky-rich Speyside interior, or follow the North East 250 loop for a longer journey into Aberdeenshire. Unlike the now-crowded NC500, the Moray Coast feels like a secret—offering the beauty of Scotland’s coastlines without the tour buses and tight parking.

👉 Curious about the more famous NC500 route? [Read our guide here.]

The Kylesku Bridge spanning Loch a' Chà irn Bhà in in the Scottish Highlands and a landmark on the North Coast 500 - Shutterstock

Discover Amazing Scotland By Rail

Let’s take a journey through Scotland aboard twelve distinctive train experiences that capture the country’s beauty, history, and charm. From the iconic West Highland Line—famous for its Harry Potter connection—to the scenic Far North Line, each route reveals stunning landscapes, Highland villages, and dramatic coastlines…

The Strathspey Steam Railway - Aviemore to Boat of Garten and Broomhill - Shutterstock

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Around The Web

Coastal Views and Cullen Skink

Stretch your legs along Cullen Bay, a dramatic stretch of shoreline with views of the 19th-century Cullen Viaduct. Stroll the cliffside path, breathe in the sea air, then reward yourself with a bowl of Cullen Skink in the village that invented it.

Natural arch that resembles the bow of a fiddle

Near Portknockie, this striking sea arch shaped like a violin’s bow rises from the sea. It’s a favourite for photographers and a great spot for spotting seabirds, with dolphins often passing by in the distance.

The Heart of Speyside Whisky

Strathisla Distillery is one of Scotland’s oldest operating distilleries (est. 1786) and the spiritual home of Chivas Regal. Join a tour to see the copper stills, learn the craft, and sample a dram in the tasting room surrounded by centuries of tradition.

Findlater Castle, Ruins with a Cliff-Edge View

Perched on a dramatic coastal promontory, this 13th-century ruin once guarded the Moray Firth. A short walk leads you to its remains—remote, windswept, and utterly atmospheric.

What happens if someone finds the Loch Ness Monster?

People have been looking for Nessie for almost 100 years. Humps have been seen moving across Loch Ness, and strange sounds heard from beneath the surface - but no actual monster. A four-day "quest" - the latest in a long series of efforts to unravel the mystery - has been held this week.

Like Nowhere Else on Earth!

Edinburgh isn’t just Scotland’s capital—it’s a global capital of culture. No other city hosts such a rich and varied year-round programme of international festivals. From science and storytelling to theatre, art, music, and literature, the city celebrates creativity in all its forms. Spring to winter, Edinburgh’s festival calendar is packed with bold ideas, world-class performances, and moments that connect people from every walk of life. Set against the city’s dramatic skyline and cobbled streets, the atmosphere is electric. Historic venues, concert halls, gardens, and theatres come alive with energy, colour, and conversation.

Edinburgh Jazz and Blues Festival Mardi Gras parade at around Princes Street - Love to Visit Scotland

Top Experiences In Scotland Likely To Sell Out

2024 is going to be a busy year - Here is a list of the top experiences that will most likely sell out and you should book in advance. Don’t delay!

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🌟 New: Travel Quizzer is Here!

Are you ready to prove your travel smarts? Don’t miss the chance to play the hottest new trivia game for travel lovers!

Here’s a taste: Where is the famous Kylemore Abbey located?

Think you know? Don’t wait—thousands of trivia buffs are already hooked. Play Travel Quizzer now!

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From Love Scotland Community

“I've never been to Scotland but l know it's in my blood. I reckon I was Scottish in a previous life. Love the accent, the kilt and anything Scottish. I will visit before I go to the happy hunting ground.” - Rachel Barker

Scottish Food You Will Love

Cullen Skink soup - Traditional Scottish recipe

Coo Wee

The Moray Coast - Road Tripping Scotland

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