Scotch whisky is one of our most famous exports. Ranging from globally-recognised brands to boutique small batch distilleries, the culture of its production runs deep. Our milder climate is perfect for barley cultivation; this combined with pristine water from the Spey creates the perfect partnership. The Malt Whisky Trail depicts the full story of ‘the water of life’ from illicit distilling in secret places to the industrialisation of the 19th century and the growth of brands such as Aberlour and Glenlivet. We are perfectly placed for your journey of discovery into this rich heritage. The award-winning Macallan distillery is a ten minute drive or an hour and half walk away - a good place to start!

The River Spey is an idyllic environment for walkers, anglers and cyclists. A fast river, it is perfect for fishing for salmon and trout. Many fishing beats are within short distances from Hotel 1881. The salmon season starts in February and runs through to September but you don’t need a rod in hand to appreciate the beauty of the river: a walk will also delight. The Findhorn races down to the Moray Firth and long stretches of fine sandy beaches at the Sunshine Coast. A plethora of marine life can be spied from land but you can also board a boat and search for dolphins, seals, porpoises and whales out at sea. Birds thrive here, too: gannets, razorbills, puffins and guillemots all live off the rich offerings of the sea.

If golfing is your passion, you might struggle to decide which prestigious course to play on - there are so many to choose from. Nairn has hosted the Walker and Curtis Cups; Royal Dornoch is one of the top ten courses in the world. There are plenty of opportunities for juniors to play, too. If you prefer to be nestled in countryside with mountain views or at the coast with sea views and salty air, simply take your pick! We are surrounded by excellent courses at Hotel 1881 - the closest being Rothes which is only ten minutes away.

The Speyside Way links Spey Bay on the Moray coast to the Grampian mountains. Mainly following the River Spey, it’s one of Scotland’s four official Long Distance Routes. Along the way, walkers and cyclists can absorb the incredible unspoilt Highland scenery, passing by mountains and through woodlands, traversing moors and ending with splendid ocean views. Or the other way around! Walks can be adapted to suit all abilities. Moray Monster Trails offer cyclists single-track mountain bike routes in the Fochabers area. Routes range from easy to challenging to experts only need apply.

Just thirty minutes away from Hotel 1881 is the Moray Sunshine Coast with fine sandy beaches, idyllic coastal villages and dramatic cliff formations as far as the eye can see. However you want to travel - by foot, bicycle or on horseback - the natural beauty of this coastline is one of the crowning glories of Scottish scenery. If sailing is your passion, why not charter a yacht on Loch Ness or take to the open sea and view the coast from the water? Some of Scotland’s finest seafood is caught in these waters and sold to the world; thankfully, they save some for Restaurant 88.

Hotel 1881 is situated at the heart of Highland culture. Elgin Cathedral is only a 20-minute drive away and a finer example of medieval Scottish architecture cannot be found. The ‘Lantern of the North’ features an octagonal chapter house with ornate stone carvings and an imposing stone bishop stands in the the nave. Highland Games take place from spring through to summer and create an ideal opportunity to experience local traditions. Our nearest games take place in Aberlour and feature hammer throwing, caber tossing, Highland dancing, piping events and a variety of stalls selling everything from fine food to artisanal arts and crafts. If you like your sport to have a little more risk involved, Shinty might be the game for you. It's a fast-paced, highly competitive contact sport, a bit like hockey, but where the ball can be tossed overhead...beware! It’s history is thoroughly woven into Highland culture and heritage.

Thanks to Alba Fishing and Visit Scotland for the use of the photographs.