Car Hire in Elgin - Heart of Moray
Elgin, the administrative capital of Moray, is a handsome market town dominated by the magnificent ruins of its medieval cathedral - once Scotland's finest. Sitting at the heart of Scotland's malt whisky country, Elgin is the perfect base for exploring the Speyside distilleries that produce the world's most famous single malts. Beyond whisky, the area offers stunning coastlines at Lossiemouth and Cullen, the wildlife of the Moray Firth, and easy access to the Cairngorms. With a hire car from Elgin, you can follow the Malt Whisky Trail, discover hidden beaches, and explore castles throughout Moray.
Elgin and Moray
Elgin Cathedral
The 'Lantern of the North' - hauntingly beautiful medieval cathedral ruins. One of Scotland's most impressive historic sites.
Speyside Distilleries
Over 50 distilleries within easy reach including Glenfiddich, Macallan, Glenlivet, Cardhu, and many more.
Lossiemouth Beach
Two beautiful beaches - East and West - with RAF history, golf, and the birthplace of Ramsay MacDonald.
Brodie Castle
16th-century tower house with stunning daffodil displays in spring. NTS property with beautiful grounds.
Cullen & the Moray Coast
Picturesque fishing town famous for Cullen Skink soup. Stunning coastline with sea stacks and beaches.
Driving from Elgin
Main Roads
- • A96 - West to Inverness (40 mins), East to Aberdeen (1.5 hours)
- • A941 - South into Speyside whisky country
- • A98 - East along the coast to Banff
- • B9040 - North to Lossiemouth
- • A95 - Southwest to Grantown-on-Spey
- • B9010 - South to Dallas and the distillery road
Driving Tips
- • Whisky trail roads are quiet and scenic - take your time
- • Most distilleries require booking for tours
- • Moray coast road (A98) is beautiful but winding
- • RAF Lossiemouth jets are spectacular but loud
- • Winter driving south into the hills needs care
Parking
Town centre parking at St Giles and Batchen Lane car parks. Cathedral has nearby parking. All distilleries have visitor parking. Beach car parks at Lossiemouth are free.
Why Hire a Car in Elgin
- Essential for the Malt Whisky Trail - no public transport
- Explore beautiful Moray coastline
- Visit multiple distilleries at your own pace
- Access hidden beaches and fishing villages
- Easy reach of Inverness and the Highlands
- Perfect base for Speyside whisky touring
Nearby Destinations
Local Tip
Drive the 'secret' Speyside route via Dallas and Knockando - it passes several lesser-known distilleries including Cardhu and Knockando, and is far quieter than the main A95. Stop at Craigellachie for the famous whisky hotel.
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