Seaside town
Nairn's reputation as a holiday destination grew during the 19th century, when travellers would visit the town for the warm weather and the fresh sea air. Today the blue flag beaches are still one of the main reasons to visit Nairn, whether you plan on relaxing on the sand with a good book or dipping into the water for a swim. The Moray Firth is home to a colony of dolphins and if you're lucky you might be able to spot some during your stay.
Golf
The area around Nairn boasts some world-class golf courses. There are two championship courses close to the town, The Nairn Golf Club and Nairn Dunbar Golf Club. The Nairn Golf Club was originally founded in 1887 and based on the southern shore of the Moray Firth. Nairn Dunbar Golf Club was founded in 1899 and is located behind the dunes of Nairn's East Beach. Also nearby is the 9-hole course at Cawdor Castle and the Castle Stuart Golf Links, featuring a luxury spa in addition to the course.
Castles
Nairn's highland location means that the town is within easy driving distance of a number of historical castles. Approximately five miles south of Nairn is Cawdor Castle, a 15th-century castle that belonged to the Clan Cawdor before being passed onto another family in the 16th century. Perfect for both family outings and romantic holidays, Cawdor Castle is a dramatic sight to behold and well worth a visit. Also close to Nairn is Brodie Castle, the ancestral seat of clan Brodie and now owned by the National Trust. Originally built in the 16th century, the castle underwent extensive renovations in the 19th century.
Further afield
If you're travelling with a car, journeying outside of Nairn will take you to some of the Highland's most famous attractions. A tour of the historical Glenmorangie Distillery will show you the traditional methods used to make Single Highland malt Scotch whisky, the Bronze Age burial site of Clava Cairns offers an insight into Scotland's prehistoric past and a visit to Culloden Battlefield and Visitor Centre will teach you the history of the Battle of Culloden.
