Forres Circular Cycle Ride
Spectacular views and some pleasant country lanes are the reward for this 10 mile circuit of Forres following cycle route 3. It is very convenient for guests and residents at Cluny Hill College (The Findhorn Foundation)
This is a council inspired route but sadly there is lack of signs in some places, especially at the beginning, either as an oversight or vandalism. However the route is easy to follow, so don’t be put off as this is a worthwhile ride.
The official start is Grant Park Car Park. Turn left and cycle past Grant Park and turn left again into South Street. This is signposted Rafford B9010. At the bottom of the hill there is a roundabout, take the first left up St. Leonards Road (also B9010) Pass Cluny Hill College, pass The Hospital and at the end of the houses pass Council Wood Car Park. About 100 yards further take the left fork and continue to a crossroads. Here the very first route 3 sign since the car park appears. Go straight on. From here until after Dallas Dhu Distillery the signs are in place. The road climbs up past a 
quarry and looking back there are good views of Findhorn Bay. At the next cross road the route is signed right but it really is worth a detour to Califer Hill viewpoint which is reached by going straight ahead for nearly one mile. Califer Hill is a picnic site and superb view point with extensive view to Findhorn and beyond. The climb is steep but if you pack a picnic and the day is fine this is good place to linger and drink in the view.
Return by the same way (very quick) and turn left at the cross roads and pass Blervie Castle ruin on your left, then freewheel all the way to Rafford enjoying extensive views of Darnaway Forest and the hills beyond.
At Rafford turn left at the route 3 sign by the war memorial and after the church turn right at the next route 3 sign, also sign posted to Dallas Dhu Distillery. Follow this road through pleasant woods until you reach the distillery. There is a shop, picnic area and tours of this historic building, which is now a museum, are possible. Go past Dallas Dhu bear right (there is a route3 sign) and after about 25 yards turn left (no sign, although I believe there was one) and follow this road to the main road. Route 3 sign here. Go straight across and follow the road past Whiterow Farm and keep on it to Forres where it once again reaches the main road. Turn left and continue until you reach a route 3 sign, also sign posted Swimming Pool. Turn right into Orchard Road and follow it to the roundabout at the end. Take the second exit (the first is no entry) into South Street and return to the starting point. If returning to Cluny Hill College take the third exit into St Leonards Road.
Maps. Explorer 423 and Landranger 27. You can also download a basic map from
www.morayways.org
