Culbin Forest

Culbin Forest is a large coastal woodland near Findhorn Bay, with miles of paths through Scots and Corsican pines and reclaimed sand dunes. Walk the signed Hill 99 Trail to a treetop viewing platform for views across the water towards the Highlands, or continue on quieter routes towards the beach. The trails suit both gentle walks and longer hikes, and some are accessible to cyclists. Look out for wildlife along the way, and bring a picnic if you want to stay longer.

Walking the forest trails

Culbin Forest stretches alongside the coast near Findhorn Bay, with an extensive network of paths and tracks. Scots and Corsican pines were planted here in the 1940s to stabilise shifting sands. The woodland has since grown over parts of the dunes, so you may spot sea-worn pebbles and shells among the trees.

Routes range from leisurely woodland strolls to longer hikes. A signed all-abilities route, known as Route 99, leads to the Hill 99 viewpoint. The trail is about 3.75 miles (6 km) and typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours. Benches and signed points along the path give you places to pause and help you follow the route.

Hill 99 and the coast

At Hill 99, a treetop platform rises above the forest canopy. On a clear day, the view reaches across the water towards the Highlands and the hills of Sutherland. The viewpoint is a highlight of the walk, though access to the platform has been reported as closed at times, so check conditions locally before setting out if reaching the top is your main reason for visiting.

The forest paths also lead towards the beach, where the woodland opens onto the coast. Birdlife and other wildlife can be seen around the forest and bay. Start from the Forestry and Land Scotland car park near Dyke, and take a Culbin Flyer map from an entry point to keep track of the numbered trails. Cyclists can use some of the tracks too.