Situated 17 miles from the Highland capital of Inverness sits the adorable seaside town of Nairn. On the edge of the Moray Firth, this Highland adventure playground is a popular spot for tourists looking to enjoy themselves by exploring sandy beaches, going for a round of golf, or enjoying this historical coastal town.
Nairn is often described as one of the driest and sunniest parts of Scotland meaning that this is a popular holiday destination for Scottish families come summertime.
Despite its small size of 10,000 inhabitants, Nairn packs a wee Highland punch and offers something for everyone. In this article, we’ll guide you through some of the highlights of this Caledonian coastal escape.
Chill Out at Nairn Beach
Given its location on the edge of the Moray Firth, Nairn actually has four beaches and its long sandy Central Beach is one of the prime attractions in Nairn town. The beach is backed up by dunes and a long promenade, the water is clean and crystal clear, and the backdrop that is the Moray Firth makes for a stunning place to unwind.
During the summer months, this is one of the most popular beaches in Scotland, and it’s easy to see why. Additionally, the nearby Links Gardens is a great spot to enjoy the views.
Play Golf at One of Nairn’s Clubs
Golf lovers are in heaven when they head to Scotland. After all, this is the country that lays claim to inventing the modern game! Nairn is no exception when it comes to being a great option for enthusiasts of the game and it boasts two golf clubs:
Nairn Golf Club was established in 1887 and it’s one of the top links courses in the country having hosted numerous prestigious tournaments over the years. Such a prestigious reputation of the club is reflected in its green fees with adults paying £230 for a round of golf between May and September, and £80 during the fringe months of March and November.
Nairn Dunbar Golf Club meanwhile presents another option and it’s ranked 9th in the North of Scotland Top 100 Courses. The course is designed over 6765 years giving a PAR of 72 and with the magnificent Moray Firth presenting itself as the backdrop of the course.
Green fees for visitors of Nairn Dunbar Golf Club are on the more affordable side and a round ticket in the high season here costs just £75 per person for an adult.
Visit Cawdor Castle
Just a short drive from the town lies Cawdor Castle which was built in the 14th century. Famously linked to Shakespeare’s Macbeth, Cawdor Castle is a popular site to explore for those looking to get a glimpse into Scottish Highland history and how the powerful clans of this era lived their lives.
Around the castle are well-maintained gardens which are surrounded by beautiful walking trails and lush woodlands.
Culbin Forest
It’s hard not to be close to stunning nature walks wherever you are in the Highlands and Nairn is no exception. Culbin Forest offers a network of walking trails across pine Woodlands, sand dunes, and salt marshes.
Stretching from Nairn all the way to Findhorn Bay, Culbin Forest is a huge area that’s a paradise for hikers, bike riders, and nature lovers alike with the waymarked routes such as the popular Hill 99.
The biodiversity of this area draws in bird watchers with Oystercatchers, Knots, Long-tailed Duck, and Common Scoters often being spotted at high tide.
What are some of your favourite things to do in Nairn?
Let us know in the comments below!
