Wildfire risk
With wildfire risk currently extremely high, we urge visitors to take extra care by avoiding any activity that could start a fire and immediately reporting any signs of smoke or fire to 999 to help protect people and wildlife. Please note, some of our nature reserves are closed due to wildfires, please check before you travel.
Advice on wildfire preventionThu 30 July 2026 12:00 Days out
Loch Spynie
OakenheadOpenSee opening timesHead to Loch Spynie to see wildfowl in their element and admire peaceful loch-side views.
About
Loch Spynie is one of Moray’s hidden gems. A haven for wildlife and birdwatchers alike, head here for a chance to hear Water Rails squealing in the reedbeds, spot Osprey fishing in the loch, and Whooper Swans gathering on the water. Take a stroll along short trails and enjoy peaceful views of the loch from the hide, as well as the chance to spot year-round residents Red Squirrels and Otters.
The reserve doesn’t stop at the edges of Spynie loch, but takes in wet woodlands, fen meadow and the largest freshwater reedbed in Scotland – this make it the ideal spot for ducks, geese and swans. There’s also a nearby Scots Pine plantation whose wonderful old trees provide homes for creatures large and small.
At Spynie, RSPB Scotland works in partnership with the landowners, Pitgaveny Farms and Spynie Farms, to restore and maintain the wetlands and look after the water quality of the loch. The array of habitats at Loch Spynie is what makes this reserve so special. The loch is internationally recognised as an important home for wildlife through its designation as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and a Special Protection Area (SPA). It is also a Ramsar site. To find out more about these designations, head here.
At a glance
6 spaces 1 Blue Badge spaces There is a small car park with approximately six spaces. The surface is packed hardcore and can be muddy.
There is one unmarked space 15m from the hide for blue badge holders. This is reached by driving through the double gates and down the 250m track to the hide from the car park.
The car park is to the right at the end of a farm track, adjacent to working farm buildings. Please park responsibly and only in the car park.
There are no toilets here. the nearest public toilets are in Elgin or Lossiemouth, both around 3 miles away.
There are no toilets here. the nearest public toilets are in Elgin or Lossiemouth, both around 3 miles away.
Only for the adventurous.
Prior to your visit, please contact the reserve directly for detailed information.
There are no toilets here. the nearest public toilets are in Elgin or Lossiemouth, both around 3 miles away.
BBQs are a fire risk, endangering other people and the precious wildlife and habitats here. They are not permitted on the reserve at any time.
Dogs must be under close control due to presence of livestock and wildlife.
Assistance dogs are welcome in all parts of the reserve.
See what’s here
Contact Loch Spynie
strathbeg@rspb.org.uk Loch Spynie, Scarffbanks Farm, Elgin, Moray, IV30 5PQ 01346 532017