Outdoors enthusiasts will be given a glimpse into one of Moray’s most historic and enchanting landmarks during an upcoming celebration of the region’s natural environment.
The Moray Walking and Outdoor Festival begins next week and residents and visitors will be able to sample some of the area’s most scenic surroundings during the 10-day event.
This year, for the first time, participants will have the opportunity to take in the countryside around the iconic Pluscarden Abbey.
As well as touring the area around the 13th century monastery, visitors will be given a talk by the monks who live there.
Yesterday, festival organisers assembled at the ancient venue to celebrate the launch of the programme.
Father Giles Conacher said: “People come from all over the world to visit the abbey and, as well as enjoying the peace here, they often remark on the beautiful countryside around about us.
“There are forest tracks, where people often spot birds, deer and red squirrels.
“After the walk, people will get to learn about the history of Pluscarden Abbey, and our plans for its future.”
The walk will take place at 3pm on Tuesday, June 21, and will be led by Elgin businessman Jim Royan.
Following the six-and-a-half mile jaunt, participants will receive a two-course barbecue at Pluscarden Hall.
Mr Royan added: “The Pluscarden valley is a hidden gem, it has an incredible history.
“The monks knew what they were doing in 1230 when they chose to establish the abbey here.”
The festival will commence on Thursday, with a plant identification walk outside Forres, and an opening talk at Elgin’s Drouthy Cobbler bar from mountaineer Alan Rowan.
While the majority of activities focus on walking, Moray watersports outfit Ace Adventures will stage some more fast-paced pursuits.
The group will organise whitewater rafting trips along the River Findhorn and cliff jumps at the Randolph’s Leap beauty spot.
And naturalist Dan Puplett will share his expertise on the region’s ecology during wildlife tracking walks.
Mr Puplett said that participants would be able to follow badger and fox tracks, and identify different types of birdsong.
Festival chairman Jim Thomson added: “We have a fantastic catalogue of 45 different events, and there’s a lot of variety.”
The programme will run until Sunday, June 26, and more detail is available at www.moraywalkingfestival.co.uk.