The best family-friendly hikes and walks around Portknockie
4.5
(274)
1,949
hikers
10
hikes
Family friendly hiking trails around Portknockie are primarily defined by the dramatic Moray Firth coastline, featuring unique geological formations and extensive coastal paths. The region is characterized by rugged cliffs, picturesque fishing villages, and a network of trails that offer views of the North Sea. Inland, forested hills provide additional walking opportunities.
Best family friendly hiking trails around Portknockie
- The most popular family friendly hiking route is Bow Fiddle Rock & Portknockie Coast loop, a 1.9 miles (3.0 km)…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
4.6
(9)
17
hikers
2.99km
00:49
40m
40m
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.8
(56)
341
hikers
8.01km
02:07
80m
80m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(6)
39
hikers
16.7km
04:32
240m
240m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(3)
31
hikers
Easy hike. Great for any fitness level. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.5
(2)
13
hikers
10.3km
02:44
100m
100m
Moderate hike. Good fitness required. Easily-accessible paths. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Teetering on the side of a 15m high cliff, the castle is built out on a tiny headland, meaning access is only via a narrow strip of land. The first records of the castle relate to preparations for the Viking invasion by King Haakon in the 1260s. King Alexander Ill's military efforts to repel the invasion were inadequate and the Vikings ended up occupying the castle for some time. The present-day ruins probably date from the late 14 century and were built by Sir John Sinclair and modelled on Rosslyn Castle just outside Edingburgh, the stronghold of the Sinclair family. The path down to the castle is narrow and unstable, so it may be best to admire it from the viewpoint on the coastal path.
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Wonderful castle directly in the rock. Freely accessible. Caution when wet, risk of slipping! Parking on site, approx. 1km walk.
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Parts of the route follow the former Moray Coast Railway line. This includes the impressive viaducts at Cullen. The line went from Elgin to Portsoy, supporting local industries including fishing, whisky and agriculture. It closed in 1968. Unfortunatley the Spey Bay viaduct collapsed in December 2025, which necessitates a detour to the road bridge further south.
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A graceful rock arch which looks great from the shore and is even better to kayak through!
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This footbridge was opened to the public in Oct 2016 - see https://newsroom.moray.gov.uk/news/ribbon-cut-on-new-cullen-footbridge - and has replaced the previous 90-year-old bridge. PS: the photo of the (reflection of) the viaduct, which is attached to this highlight, was taken from the footbridge
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An icon of Moray! With a new gravel path running along the coastal trail.
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This statue of a watchful seated fisherman , on a raised stone plinth overlooking the picturesque harbour, was created by local sculptor Corenna Cowie in 1959. It was erected to commemorate the brave men of Findochty who were lost in the two World Wars, and paid for by public conscriptions.
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Findochty harbour, three miles east of Buckie, has two basins. Over 100 berths are available to accommodate the demand from a wide range of pleasure and fishing boats which mainly consist of creel boards and long-liners catching mackerel.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many family-friendly hiking trails are available around Portknockie?
There are 10 family-friendly hiking trails around Portknockie, offering a variety of experiences from easy strolls to more moderate adventures, perfect for families with children of various ages.
What kind of terrain can we expect on family hikes in Portknockie?
Most family-friendly trails in Portknockie follow the stunning coastline, featuring well-maintained paths, cliff-top sections, and sometimes old railway lines. You can expect a mix of paved and natural surfaces, offering dramatic sea views and unique geological formations.
Are there any easy circular walks suitable for families with young children?
Yes, for a gentle and scenic circular walk, consider the Bow Fiddle Rock & Portknockie Coast loop. It's just under 3 km and offers fantastic views of the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock, making it ideal for families with toddlers or those looking for a shorter outing.
What natural landmarks or attractions can we see along the family-friendly trails?
Many trails offer incredible sights. You can marvel at the iconic Bow Fiddle Rock, a unique sea arch, or explore the dramatic ruins of Findlater Castle perched on a cliff edge. The coastal paths also provide opportunities to spot marine wildlife like dolphins and seals.
Are dogs allowed on the family-friendly hiking trails in Portknockie?
Yes, many of the coastal paths and trails around Portknockie are dog-friendly. However, it's always recommended to keep dogs on a lead, especially near cliff edges, livestock, or nesting seabirds, to ensure safety for everyone and protect local wildlife.
What is a good moderate family hike that offers diverse scenery?
The Moray Coast Trail – Findochty Harbour loop from Portknockie is a great moderate option. This 10 km route takes you along the stunning Moray Coast, offering varied coastal scenery and leading to the charming Findochty Harbour.
Is there parking available near the trailheads for family hikes?
Yes, Portknockie offers various parking options, particularly near the harbour and along the coastal access points, making it convenient to start your family hiking adventures. Specific parking details can often be found on individual route descriptions.
What do other hikers enjoy most about the family-friendly trails in Portknockie?
The komoot community highly rates the trails in Portknockie, with an average score of 4.55 stars. Reviewers frequently praise the breathtaking coastal views, the unique geological formations like Bow Fiddle Rock, and the well-maintained paths that make them enjoyable for all ages.
Are there any family-friendly routes that connect to other villages or points of interest?
Absolutely. The Bow Fiddle Rock – Bow Fiddle Rock loop from Portknockie, while starting and ending in Portknockie, offers a longer coastal experience. You can also easily extend walks towards nearby Cullen Coastal Village and Beach, known for its beautiful beach and viaduct, by joining the Moray Coast Trail.
What is the best time of year to go hiking with family in Portknockie?
The spring and summer months (April to September) are generally ideal for family hiking in Portknockie. The weather is milder, days are longer, and the coastal scenery is vibrant. This period also offers the best chances for wildlife spotting, including seabirds and marine life.
Are there any trails that offer a good view of Portknockie Harbour?
Yes, the Portknockie Harbour – Moray Coastal Cycle Route loop from Portknockie is an excellent choice. This easy loop starts and ends at the picturesque harbour, allowing you to enjoy its charm and the traditional coastal atmosphere before heading out onto the scenic paths.
Most popular attractions around Portknockie
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