Near Forres

Darnaway Forest

Darnaway Forest — Mixed woodland in Near Forres, photo 1 of 2Darnaway Forest — Mixed woodland in Near Forres, photo 2 of 2

Darnaway Forest is one of the best-known private woodlands in Scotland and has been part of the Moray Estates for many centuries. The extensive forests at Darnaway Castle date originally from the 18th century and were added to from the late-19th to the early-20th century. The estate manages approximately 4,050 hectares of commercial and amenity forestry. The forest generates high quality Douglas fir for local sawmills and is managed to balance both commercial and long-term environmental objectives.

🌲 Mixed woodlandDouglas Firℹ️ Visitor centre🥾 Waymarked trails

Area: 1,721.9 ha

Region: Near Forres

Address: Darnaway Forest, Forres, UK

Website: silviculture.org.uk/darnaway-forest-forres-scotland

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Best for

Walking with extensive footpaths and access routes. The estate hosts a range of events every year from small local activities through to major international events such as the World Orienteering Championships.

Wildlife

The forest includes SSSIs (Sites of Special Scientific Interest) and is a Special Protection Area for Capercaillie. It contains a wealth of biodiversity.

History

The forests at Darnaway Castle date originally from the 18th century and were added to from the late-19th to the early-20th century. Interpretation of the history of the Darnaway estate is displayed at the visitor centre at Tearie, two and a half miles west of Forres. The forest has a management history stretching back to the dawn of scientific forestry.

Reviews

★★★★☆4.3(12 reviews)View on Google Maps →
Tom Deignan★★★★★7 years ago

Beautiful walks in mature woods and along the river Findhorn.

Sonata Petrauskiene★★★★★5 years ago

The mix of the forest and the river makes the place and walking unique

Mintautas Deckus★★★★★6 years ago

Amazing forest near one of the most stunning rivers

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