Whisky tends to take over in any whistle-stop guide to Moray & Speyside, but there's a whole lot more to this area.
Outdoor pursuits are available in abundance, and with a variety of terrain and a huge amount of green space, it's easy to see why this area draws visitors from all over the world at all times of year - whether or not they're whisky fans!
For lovers of hiking, there's the long-distance Speyside Way (around 85 miles, rising to just over 100 if the additional spur to Tomintoul is included), which connects with the Moray Coast Trail (72 miles) at Buckie. These are well-marked routes, both scenically stunning and peppered with lovely places to stop for food, drink and something to do. For those wishing to hike but not keen to take on a long-distance route, the area has a range of easier and shorter walks to consider. A few of our favourites are the short but stunning 2-mile circuit to Linn Falls from Aberlour, the Elgin Explorer trail taking in the main sights of this pretty Moray town, the Smuggler's Trail starting from the Glenlivet distillery, and the lovely and well-marked hike to the summit of Ben Rinnes.
Fishing is another popular pastime in Speyside - the River Spey is especially good for salmon and sea trout. Other good fishing spots include the River Findhorn, River Avon and River Livet. Moray Firth is great for sea fishing, with several firms offering shore angling or charter boat excursions to the best spots.
The many rivers in Speyside, which make it such a great location for whisky, also serve as excellent locations for watersports. Canoeing and white-water rafting are particularly good on the River Spey - G2 Outdoor (rafting) and Spirit of the Spey (canoeing) are two local providers offering advice, equipment and guided trips.
The forests and tracks of Speyside are great for mountain-biking too, and in fact, this is a great way to cover more distance on the Speyside Way if the route appeals, but you're too short of time to hike the whole stretch.
Finally, golf in Moray & Speyside is well overdue a mention - courses vary in difficulty and scenic appeal. A few firm favourites are the stunning seaside courses at Cullen Links, Moray Golf Club at Lossiemouth and the green and pleasant Rothes near Aberlour.