Things to see and do Elgin

Completed in 1224, this historic cathedral dedicated to the Holy Trinity did not suffer from the wars of independence, but was damaged by fire in 1270, 1390 and 1402. Its influence on the region was immense and its architecture among the most elaborate in the country. Now largely in ruins, its splendid west façade, the Stone Bishop statue in the nave, the Pictish cross and the largest tombstone in Scotland, five metres high and dedicated to the Anderson family, can still be appreciated today. Guided tours take place in July and August.

This stone, attributed to the Picts, is one of the most mysterious sites in Scotland. Indeed, no one has ever been able to know who built this building, when and what it was used for. The only certainty is that there was once a Pictish fort at Burghead, built between 2000 and 1500 BC. It has been said that this hollow was once a well. The current hypotheses are: a sanctuary for Celtic water deities, a place of ritual execution, an early Christian baptistry or a Pictish cult space.

Glen Moray whisky has been distilled on the banks of the Lossie River since 1897. While things have changed in a century, the ingredients, processes and skills have remained constant. This small, friendly and informal distillery is located in the heart of Speyside, Elgin once being its capital. Tours take place every day when the distillery is open, at 9:30am, 11:30am, 1:30pm and 3:30pm and are free for under 18s. Tasting sessions of 3 or 4 whiskies are available at the bar, between 10am and 4.30pm (from £35).

Residence of the Archbishops of Moray, Spynie Palace rose from the ground in the 12th century and remained occupied by its illustrious residents until 1686. David's Tower is the most imposing tower-house still standing in Scotland, 22 m high. The remains of the Great Hall are a reminder of its former grandeur. Although the whole site is now partly in ruins, it is still impressive and beautiful, both in its architecture and its privileged natural environment. Royalty often used this palace as a guest house.

Scotland's oldest independent museum, the Museum offers a diverse collection, taking visitors on a journey back in time to before the dinosaurs and into the present day. It holds 36,000 items (not all on display), including fish fossils dating back over 450 million years - its fossil collection is recognised as being of national importance - and archaeological finds from prehistory to the Middle Ages. It also has a number of works of art of local and international importance.

This small museum is run by passionate volunteers who are happy to present their superb cars and share their passion. Lovers of cars, especially English models, don't miss this visit. The museum is housed in an old mill. There are parked superb old cars and motorcycles, rare, and very rarely seen in France. Most of them drive and are used for various events such as the famous Goodwood Festival, well known to enthusiasts. At the end of the visit, each visitor notes in the guestbook his favourite vehicle.

This medieval fortress, now in ruins, belonged to the Moray family and is one of the most beautiful motte and bailey castles in the country. Mottes were common in the 12th and 13th centuries before being replaced by stone castles. These fortifications consisted of a wooden keep, placed on top of an artificial mound. Some also had an enclosed courtyard, or bailey, with additional wooden buildings. This proud castle was once one of the strongest in Scotland. It has, alas, been abandoned since 1705.