Strathlene Beach

On the east side of Buckie, near the area of Portessie or "The Sloch" as it's locally known, lies the sandy beach of Strathlene on the rugged Moray Coast. It is a very picturesque little cove and was a popular destination in the 1930s due to its now-defunct outdoor swimming pool which has been reclaimed by the sea/coastal erosion.

Since the old north coast railway passed near Strathlene it made an ideal place for day-trippers to catch the train and stop off at Portessie Station for a paddle on the beach and a swim in the pool.

A mansion house also stands at the site and was formerly a hotel, but was converted to private accommodation in the 1970s.

Strathlene Beach today

Today Strathlene Beach is still a popular destination for locals and tourists. Near Strathlene House is a good-sized car park where you can stop for a picnic on the large grassy area. The old swimming pool can be explored and there are some interesting rocks here on the shore. There is a large informational board all about the seals who bask on the nearby Craigenroan Rock. The area is very popular for dog walking.

Strathlene has become a popular spot to photograph the Aurora Borealis too with some fine foregrounds on the beach or the unique seating enclosure.

A short distance away is the Bijou by the Sea restaurant which serves great food. Across from the road from Bijou is Strathlene Caravan Park with panoramic sea views.

Please see this link to a beautiful painting by Rob Wigham of Strathlene Beach.

Other beaches nearby

Moray is in no shortage of fine beaches along the Moray Firth Coast, with one of the best to the east of Strathlene at the village of Cullen. Further along the coast to the west, there are two fantastic beaches in Lossiemouth. The ever-popular Bow Fiddle Rock lies between Portknockie and Cullen and is well worth a look.

Wildlife at Strathlene Beach

Strathlene Beach is an amazing place to see wildlife on the Moray Firth and one of the best places to see seals on the Craigenroan Rock a short distance offshore. Dolphins have also been spotted here on many occasions and in recent years many Orca / Killer Whale sightings where they feast on the fat juicy seals. Basking sharks and Minke Whales have also been sighted here.

Strathlene Golf Course

Up on the hillside overlooking the beach and car park is Strathlene Golf Course which was founded in 1877 - and is one of the oldest golf clubs in Scotland. The course is 18 holes and includes a driving range and clubhouse with excellent facilities.

What else is there to see near Strathlene Beach?

The Moray Coast has a lot to offer depending on what you like but any of the following would make for a nice part of your day out.

• Bow Fiddle Rock
• Findochty Harbour
• Cullen
• Findlater Castle
• Boyne Castle
• Macduff Aquarium
• Portgordon seals
• Spey Bay & WDC Scottish Dolphin Centre
• Spey Viaduct

Conclusion

Strathlene Beach is a lovely place to stop off while walking the Moray Coastal Trail, or 6 harbour walk and an ideal spot for a picnic or to play on the beach. Buckie is a nice town with many food options and places to stay.  Read more on beaches in Moray.

Drone photos by John Luckwell.