Rinnes

Rinnes is a geographical name used for a rural upland area in Moray, Scotland. The term is most closely associated with Ben Rinnes, the highest peak in Moray, which rises to about 841 metres and dominates the surrounding Speyside landscape. The area lies in the north-eastern part of Scotland, with the Ben and its surrounding foothills visible from much of the surrounding countryside.

The landscape of Rinnes features a mix of conifer plantations on the lower slopes and open heather moorland at higher elevations. It is drained by streams and small burns that feed into the nearby river systems. The upland area is traversed by a network of tracks and paths that are used by walkers, hikers, and occasional mountain bikers. Wildlife typically includes red deer, ground-nesting birds, and a variety of small mammals, with the hill and forests offering habitats typical of the Moray uplands.

The name Rinnes is of Gaelic origin, with “rinn” meaning a point or ridge, a meaning reflected in the landscape’s rolling ridge lines. The plural form Rinnes is used in reference to the ridge system itself and to the surrounding high ground. The region has a rural, crofting-era heritage and remains notable for outdoor recreation, scenic views, and its role in Moray’s hill-country identity.

See also: Ben Rinnes, Glen Rinnes, Moray Hills.