Forvie National Nature Reserve
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Forvie National Nature Reserve

4.8
·248 reviews·Collieston, United Kingdom

Explore vast sand dunes, witness seal colonies, and discover ancient history at this stunning Aberdeenshire coastal reserve.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nesting birds & blooming flowers

CrowdLow
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Forvie National Nature Reserve

Forvie National Nature Reserve

Best Time

Spring mornings

Nesting birds & blooming flowers

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Explore vast sand dunes, witness seal colonies, and discover ancient history at this stunning Aberdeenshire coastal reserve.

4.8
(248 reviews)

"A coastal gem with shifting sand dunes, abundant wildlife, and a hauntingly beautiful historical landscape."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Parking Pointers

Some car parks have barriers. The reserve building or Little Collieston Croft are often best bets.

🦭 Seal Spotting Etiquette

Observe seals from a distance; they need their space. Zoom in with your phone for close-ups!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Newburgh Seal Beach

Newburgh Seal Beach

Newburgh

Witness hundreds of seals basking and playing in the surf. A truly unforgettable wildlife encounter.

Hackly Bay Coastal Walk

Hackly Bay Coastal Walk

Coastal path from Forvie NNR

Stunning coastal views and a beautiful, often secluded, sandy beach perfect for a refreshing dip.

Shifting Sand Dunes

Shifting Sand Dunes

Throughout the reserve

Explore a unique landscape resembling the Sahara, with ancient cairns hidden beneath the sands.

Birdwatching Hotspot

Birdwatching Hotspot

Estuary and coastline

Home to breeding colonies of eiders, terns, and various wildfowl. A paradise for bird enthusiasts.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Forvie's Dunes & Wildlife

Forvie's expansive sand dunes and sensitive wildlife require mindful exploration. Stick to marked paths to protect nesting birds and seals, especially during breeding seasons. Parking can be tricky; check for height and width restrictions on some car parks before arrival.

Respecting the Reserve's Ecosystem

This National Nature Reserve is a haven for eiders, terns, and seals. Areas are often roped off to safeguard wildlife, so observe from a distance. The shifting sands and coastal environment mean conditions can change; always be prepared for wind and sea spray.

Best Times

When
Spring mornings
Why
Nesting birds & blooming flowers
Crowd
Low
When
Winter afternoons
Why
Seals with pups on beach
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer evenings
Why
Quieter walks, soft light
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

📍 Hackly Bay A beautiful dip with the most beautiful accessories from @wildswimmingsocks 🚗 There’s a few car parks to choose from here. We parked at Forvie National Nature Reserve, Little Collieston Croft, Collieston, AB41 8RU 🥾 We walked from the nature reserve, along the coastal path and ventured down to the beach. We had it to ourselves! 🤤 @trelliscoffeeshop and have a wee look at @the_lit...
aberdeenshire_explorers
390 likes • 10.4K views

🚗 Parking Pointers

Some car parks have barriers. The reserve building or Little Collieston Croft are often best bets. Reddit

🦭 Seal Spotting Etiquette

Observe seals from a distance; they need their space. Zoom in with your phone for close-ups! Reddit

Lovely walk to Hackley Bay at Forvie National Nature Reserve. I also walked on to the village of Collieston which is very cute. The beach along the coast is stunning 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿 #hackleybay #forvienaturereserve #rickiinscotland #aberdeenshire #visitscotland #visitaberdeenshire #placestovisit #beach #northsea #reels #lovescotland #walks #summer
ricki_in_scotland
29 likes • 1.7K views
Newburgh seal beach 🦭 Just 20 minutes north of Aberdeen, you find yourself at a wonderful sandy beach and home of an extensive sand dune system at the mouth of the Ythan River. Forvie National Nature Reserve is just 1 mile from Newburgh and is well worth a visit being home to eider ducks, diving terns and oyster catchers. A must see is the 400 strong colony of seals at the mouth of Ythan River...
ascotseyeview
118 likes • 3.7K views

👟 Dune-Friendly Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes for walking on sand dunes and coastal paths. Instagram

🗺️ Trail Navigation

Follow marked paths to protect nesting sites and avoid getting lost in the shifting sands. Reddit

It was a blustery day for some of our colleagues at Forvie National Nature Reserve last week!🌊 @Forvie.nnr A team of our volunteers from Scottish Water and ESD, along with members of public, got involved in a public beach clean organised by the East Grampian Coastal Partnership @ttptnortheast. A total of 109.5kg of marine litter was removed from the estuary and Rockend, helping to clean up and ...
scottishwater
47 likes • 1.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Parking Pointers

Some car parks have barriers. The reserve building or Little Collieston Croft are often best bets. Reddit

🦭 Seal Spotting Etiquette

Observe seals from a distance; they need their space. Zoom in with your phone for close-ups! Reddit

👟 Dune-Friendly Footwear

Wear sturdy shoes for walking on sand dunes and coastal paths. Instagram

🗺️ Trail Navigation

Follow marked paths to protect nesting sites and avoid getting lost in the shifting sands. Reddit

🌊 Coastal Weather Prep

Be ready for wind and sea spray; layers are recommended. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(248 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Forvie's stunning coastal scenery, abundant wildlife including seals and birds, and unique sand dune landscape. The reserve offers a peaceful escape with opportunities for exploration and photography. Some find parking challenging and note the need to respect wildlife protection areas.

"Beautiful estuary and dune system with walks and views. Areas roped off to protect nesting birds and seals - hurrah! Parking difficult, some car parks had height barriers, one had width barriers , but a small area had been left for larger vehicles, the easiest parking was at the reserve building ( even a £10 night stay for campers!)
The wildlife was wonderful - so many seals - safely lolling on the beach , but then several swam up to the accessible part of the beach and had a good stare at us odd creatures!! Birds and butterflies, flowers…. A stunning place."

Jo Gib

"Lovely little car park. Walks marked with paths easy to follow. Beautiful area and surprising coast views."

samantha bettison

"This was amazing we walked over the sand dunes and along to the sign where the seals are. (My phones zoomed in you can't get that close to them which is good) there's loads of signs and information plus wild animals need their space. Just make sure you don't park at the car park with the information centre as that's a different walk, we ended up doing an hour walk there before realising. Was nice but we drove 3hours to come to this bit"

stephanie bell

What People Like

Abundant seals and birds
Beautiful sand dunes
Peaceful coastal walks

What People Dislike

Tricky parking
Wildlife roped-off areas

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Forvie National Nature Reserve is located in Aberdeenshire, Scotland. Access is typically via car. Several car parks serve the reserve, though some may have height or width restrictions. The reserve building and Little Collieston Croft are often recommended parking spots. InstagramReddit

Public transport options directly to the reserve are limited. The nearest town is Newburgh, which may have bus services. From Newburgh, it's a walk or short taxi ride to the reserve. Instagram

Parking can be challenging. While some car parks have barriers, a small area is often designated for larger vehicles. The car park near the reserve building or at Little Collieston Croft are generally good choices. Reddit

Cycling is possible along local roads and designated paths. However, be mindful of the sandy terrain within the reserve itself, which can be difficult to cycle on. Instagram

While some main paths may be accessible, the sandy terrain and shifting dunes can make wheelchair access difficult in many areas. It's advisable to check with the reserve directly for the most accessible routes. Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Forvie National Nature Reserve is generally free to enter. There are no admission fees for exploring the natural landscape and wildlife. Reddit

As a natural reserve, Forvie is typically open year-round during daylight hours. However, specific areas might have temporary access restrictions to protect wildlife, especially during nesting seasons. Instagram

While not always advertised, guided walks or educational programs may be offered by local conservation groups or the reserve management. It's best to check their official website or local tourism information for any scheduled events. Instagram

Camping is generally not permitted within the main reserve areas to protect the fragile ecosystem. However, one review mentioned a £10 night stay for campers near the reserve building, suggesting limited, designated options might exist. Reddit

The Nature Centre near Collieston is worth visiting, especially with children. Information on entry fees, if any, would be available on-site or through local tourism resources. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

Forvie is renowned for its diverse wildlife. You can spot large colonies of seals, especially at Newburgh Seal Beach, and numerous bird species including eiders, terns, and oystercatchers. Butterflies and flowers are also abundant in spring. InstagramReddit+1

The reserve offers marked trails through sand dunes and along the coast. Popular walks include routes to Hackly Bay and Newburgh Seal Beach. Always stick to marked paths to protect the environment. InstagramReddit+1

Basic facilities may be available near the reserve building or at designated parking areas. It's advisable to bring your own refreshments and snacks, as dedicated cafes are not a prominent feature. Reddit

Beneath the sands lie historical layers, including the remains of Forvie Kirk and prehistoric round kerb cairns, hinting at ancient settlements and hunter-gatherer activity. Instagram

Absolutely! The dramatic sand dunes, coastal landscapes, abundant wildlife (seals and birds), and historical sites offer incredible photographic opportunities. The light can be particularly beautiful during sunrise and sunset. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

There are no formal restaurants or cafes directly within Forvie National Nature Reserve. Visitors are advised to bring their own food and drinks for picnics. Reddit

The nearby village of Newburgh offers a few local pubs and cafes where you can find refreshments and meals. Instagram

Yes, picnicking is a popular activity at Forvie. There are many scenic spots within the reserve where you can enjoy your meal, but remember to take all your litter with you. Reddit

For specific dietary requirements, it's best to check with the pubs and cafes in Newburgh beforehand. Options within the reserve itself are limited to what you bring. Instagram

The Aberdeenshire region is known for its fresh seafood, local produce, and traditional Scottish fare. You can expect hearty meals and local delicacies in the pubs and restaurants. Instagram

📸 📸 Photography

The shifting sand dunes offer dramatic landscapes, especially with the unique coastal light. Newburgh Seal Beach is fantastic for wildlife photography, and the ancient cairns provide a historical element. Instagram+1

Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best light for landscape photography, creating long shadows across the dunes. Wildlife is often most active during these times too. Instagram

A telephoto lens is highly recommended for capturing seals and birds from a respectful distance, ensuring you don't disturb them. A wide-angle lens is great for the expansive dune landscapes. InstagramReddit

Drone usage is often restricted in nature reserves to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment. It's crucial to check the latest regulations with the reserve management before flying a drone. Instagram

The weather can be unpredictable, with wind and sea spray common. This can add dramatic flair to photos, but be sure to protect your equipment. Overcast days can also provide soft, diffused light ideal for certain shots. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Forvie National Nature Reserve is a fantastic destination for families looking for an educational and adventurous day out. The chance to see seals at Newburgh Seal Beach is a major draw, offering an exciting wildlife encounter that children will love. Remember to maintain a safe distance and use binoculars or a camera zoom for closer views. InstagramReddit

The reserve's marked walking trails are generally easy to follow, making them suitable for little legs, though the sandy terrain can be tiring. The Nature Centre near Collieston is highly recommended for families, providing valuable information and interactive exhibits that can enhance the children's understanding of the local flora and fauna. Reddit

Practical tips for families: Bring plenty of snacks and drinks, as facilities are limited. Dress in layers to accommodate changing coastal weather, and ensure everyone wears comfortable, sturdy shoes for exploring the dunes. Consider visiting during calmer weather for a more enjoyable experience.

🚶‍♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers

Forvie National Nature Reserve is a paradise for anyone passionate about nature. Its status as a breeding ground for eiders, terns, and other seabirds makes it a prime location for birdwatching, especially during spring. Bring your binoculars and a good field guide to identify the various species. InstagramReddit

The diverse habitats, from shifting sand dunes to coastal heath and estuary, support a rich variety of plant and animal life. The presence of seals adds another significant wildlife attraction. The reserve's commitment to conservation means visitors can witness these species in their natural environment, often in large numbers. Reddit

Key recommendations: Explore the marked trails to discover different habitats. Visit during the recommended seasons for peak wildlife activity. Be prepared for all weather conditions, as this is an exposed coastal environment. Respect all signage regarding protected areas and wildlife.

📸 Photographers

Photographers will find Forvie National Nature Reserve a treasure trove of visual opportunities. The dramatic sand dunes create striking landscapes, especially when bathed in the soft light of sunrise or sunset. The ever-changing patterns of the sand offer endless compositional possibilities. Instagram

For wildlife photographers, Newburgh Seal Beach is an absolute must-visit. Capturing the seals in their natural habitat, playing in the surf or resting on the shore, provides incredible shots. Similarly, the seabird colonies offer dynamic subjects, particularly during their breeding seasons. Instagram+1

Photography tips: A telephoto lens is essential for wildlife. Consider a wide-angle lens for the expansive dune vistas. Be prepared for challenging weather conditions, as wind and sea spray are common, so protect your gear. Early mornings and late afternoons generally offer the best light and wildlife activity.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Wildlife Wonders: Seals and Seabirds

Forvie National Nature Reserve is a sanctuary for a remarkable array of wildlife, most notably its colonies of seals and diverse seabirds. Newburgh Seal Beach is a prime location to witness hundreds of grey seals, particularly during the winter months when pups are present. Visitors are advised to observe these marine mammals from a safe distance to avoid disturbing them. InstagramReddit

The reserve's estuary and coastline are vital breeding grounds for various bird species. Keep an eye out for eider ducks, known for their down, and the agile terns that nest in the dunes. Birdwatchers will also delight in spotting oystercatchers and other waders. Remember that many areas are roped off during nesting seasons to protect these vulnerable populations. InstagramReddit

Beyond the seals and birds, Forvie's unique ecosystem supports a variety of insects and plant life. In spring, the dunes burst with colour from cliff flowers, adding to the reserve's natural beauty. The presence of these species highlights the importance of conservation efforts within the reserve. Reddit

Exploring the Ancient Sands

The shifting sand dunes of Forvie National Nature Reserve create a dramatic and ever-changing landscape, often compared to the Sahara Desert due to its vastness and arid appearance. These dunes are not just visually striking; they hold significant archaeological treasures. Instagram

Beneath the sands lie remnants of ancient human activity, including prehistoric round kerb cairns and the foundations of lost settlements. These sites offer a glimpse into the lives of Mesolithic, Neolithic, and Bronze Age inhabitants who utilized this coastal area for hunting and gathering. Exploring these areas requires respect for the fragile historical context. Instagram

Walking through the dunes can be an immersive experience, with marked trails guiding visitors through this unique environment. The dynamic nature of the dunes means the landscape is constantly evolving, shaped by wind and tide. It's a place where nature and history converge, offering a hauntingly beautiful exploration. Instagram

Coastal Walks and Hackly Bay

Forvie National Nature Reserve offers a network of coastal walking trails that allow visitors to experience its diverse scenery. These paths wind through the sand dunes and along the dramatic coastline, providing breathtaking views of the North Sea. Instagram+1

A particularly popular route leads to Hackly Bay, a beautiful sandy beach that is often secluded, offering a peaceful escape. This bay is also a spot for those brave enough to take a dip in the North Sea, as highlighted by some visitors. The walk to Hackly Bay provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy the coastal air and stunning vistas. Instagram+1

When exploring these trails, it's essential to wear appropriate footwear due to the sandy terrain. Be prepared for changing weather conditions, as the coast can be exposed and windy. Sticking to marked paths is crucial for both your safety and the preservation of the reserve's delicate ecosystem. Instagram

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