Culbin Forest
Culbin is a large forest stretching from Nairn to Findhorn Bay in Moray, Scotland, consisting primarily of pine and birch woodland with varied habitats including moss-covered sand dunes, lichen beds, saltmarsh and mudflats around Findhorn Bay and Buckie Loch. The forest sits on sand dunes that rise to a maximum height of 99 feet at Hill 99 and is managed by Forestry and Land Scotland.
Area: 105.9 ha
Region: Near Forres
Address: Culbin Forest, United Kingdom
Website: forestryandland.gov.scot/visit/destinations/culbin
🧭 Get directionsOpening hours
Open year-round. Toilet facility scheduled to close 1 November 2024 and reopen April 2026.
Best for
Walking, hiking, cycling, horse riding, birdwatching and wildlife viewing. Gravel Pit Ponds Trail suitable for first-time visitors and those with limited mobility.
Wildlife
Diverse wildlife supported by varied habitats including salt-killed stands of pine trees, saltmarsh, mudflats, dragonfly ponds rich in wildlife, and lichen beds. Good for birdwatching from Nairn East Beach approach. Visitors advised to check for ticks and be cautious around open water.
History
Forest sits on sand dunes; Hill 99 is the highest sand dune at 99 feet elevation. Managed by Forestry and Land Scotland.
Reviews
Stunning forest and walk. Public toilets unfortunately not very nice, but the forest walk and viewing tower totally worth it.
Parking with a toilet block. Forest and Beach walks easily accessed and lengthy. Amazing views across the water to the Highlands. So much wildlife to lose your time watching. A genuinely area of calm and peace close to main roads and towns
Completed the Hill 99 Trail and it was breathtaking. (Physically and emotionally) Parking was easy, £4 for the day which is really good (no overnight parking) We grabbed some Culbin Flyers on our way out which had a useful map with trail numbers + points so you don't get lost. I can imagine its easy to get lost if you don't stick to the trails. The view at the top was absolutely worth it though, I will be returning to reach the bay next time. Shame it was the wrong time of year to see the dragon