Home / Explore / Locations / Culbin Sands

Culbin Sands

Culbin Sands is a vast area of pristine beach, spectacular sand-spits, and forested countryside that stretches from the town of Nairn east to Findhorn Bay. Known in Gaelic as Bar Inbhir Èireann, the long miles of Culbin Sands and the great forest inland make this the perfect destination for a family adventure.

While this beautiful area is now a haven for wildlife, it was once home to a farming township that vanished during a huge sandstorm in 1694. The many myths that sprung up following that sudden disappearance have cloaked Culbin in mystery, with local folklore linking the storm to everything from warlocks and witches to divine retribution against local smugglers. Culbin stories have fascinated generations.

Explore the mysteries of Moray

For centuries, the sand dunes were all there was to see at Culbin, but in the late 1800s tree planting begun. Then in 1922, the Forestry Commission started the forest we see today; creating this green oasis enjoyed by dragonflies, otters and ospreys, not to mention walkers, horse riders and cyclists.

Over the years, many historians have visited Culbin to dig up flint tools, bronze buckles and even a crashed WW2 fighter jet! What’s more, if the legends of Culbin don’t whet your appetite, just inland you’ll find Macbeth’s Hillock which is linked to one the most famous stories ever told. Located near Brodie, this natural knoll is said to be where Macbeth met the three witches who foretold his future.

“All hail, Macbeth, that shalt be king hereafter!”

The real Macbeth, who Shakespeare based his character on, was Mormaer of Moray from 1032. In 1040, he defeated Duncan in battle near Elgin and was crowned King of Alba. Over a thousand years later, Moray is much more welcoming to its visitors, Royal or otherwise. From historic castles and fine distilleries to the joys of fishing and golfing, this is a land calling out to you.

Plan your visit

Places to Stay

Things to Do

Food and Drink

A Local View

Get Inspired

Famous Visitors to the Royal Burgh of Nairn: Mary, Queen of Scots

Discover the story of Mary, Queen of Scots and her eventful trip to Nairn in the 16th century.

A oil portrait of Mary, Queen of Scots in white mourning wear

Nairn Public Hall

Discover the story of Nairn Public Hall, a historic centre for live music and entertainment.

A large grey stone building with three large windows. Two shops - Nairn Bookshop, on the left, and a barber shop, on the right, are housed in the building

Famous Visitors to the Royal Burgh of Nairn: Charlie Chaplin

Tread in the footsteps of stars in Nairn which was once a popular holiday destination for one of the most famous actors in the world, Charlie Chaplin.