Six miles southwest of Elgin in a sheltered valley of the Black Burn, Pluscarden Abbey is one of only two medieval monasteries in Britain still inhabited by monks — and the only one in the world where monks returned to a ruin and rebuilt it themselves. Founded in 1230 by King Alexander II, it was abandoned at the Reformation, fell into ruin over three centuries, and was re-occupied by Benedictines from Prinknash Abbey in 1948. They have been restoring it by hand ever since. The church is open to visitors and the monks welcome guests; there is something quietly remarkable about a medieval building that is neither museum nor ruin but a living place of worship. Gregorian chant at the daily offices is worth timing your visit around. Admission is free.