Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival – about far more than just walking
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
More than 50 events are being staged during the Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival which is taking place over 10 days later this month.
And the message is you don't have to be super fit to enjoy the festival as many easy activities can be found, including wildlife and heritage trails.
Kath Todd, one of the organisers, said: "The event leaders are all experts in their field of interest.
"And every year the response is so positive, with 100% of the participants asked replying that the events were of a high quality."
Taking part in the festival will be groups and individuals with specialist knowledge of Moray’s history, archaeology, architecture, natural landscape and wildlife.
Highlights will include a 40-minute presentation at the Forres Tollbooth on the festival's opening evening – Friday, June 17 – by local writer Norman Thomson whose book – ‘The Moray Way Companion’ – is due to appear in bookshops this summer.
Meanwhile, naturalist Dan Puplett will be looking for birds, mammals, insects and more in Oakwood near Elgin.
Lise Olsen, the Moray Way's artist in residence, has worked together with and local storyteller Ben Hinnie to create a 'soundwalk' in Aberlour, which will allows walkers to listen to a mix of history, myths, and legends.
Wildlife writer and photographer Rebecca Gibson will be leading a gentle stroll and nature writing workshop along Burghead’s beautiful coastline.
Cullen Sea School will be offering sessions for paddle boarding and kayaking, while the Dorenell Ranger Service has organised a challenging walk which will take in Glenfiddich as well as Blackwater Lodge in the Cabrach.
The festival is organised by the Moray Way Association, which looks after the 96-mile circular trail as well as promotes walking in general.
All income generated will go towards helping other walking initiatives such as the excellent www.morayways.org.uk website
To see a full list of the festival's events, plus times and dates, see moraywalkoutdoorfest.co.uk
