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Fifty Things to do in Perthshire A Hidden Scotland Guide -->

A Hidden Scotland Guide

Fifty Things to do in Perthshire

The Hermitage

Photography by @simonhird

Meikleour Beech Hedge

Black Spout Waterfall

Photography by @preston_tan

Faskally Woods

Cultybraggan Camp

Throughout all of Scotland, there is only one Second World War PoW camp open to the public, and it’s located just a mile outside of Comrie. Cultybraggan Camp had a holding capacity of 4000, and quickly gained a reputation for harsh conditions, even being dubbed the ‘Black Camp of the North’. Bought by the community in 2007, the camp is now divided up into several different spaces such as allotments, bakeries, and workshops.

Photography by @the_stonehouse_bakery

The Falls of Archarn

When exploring the Falls of Archarn, walkers traverse an enchanting pathway through a Victorian folly and climb one of Scotland’s iconic glens. The falls are found just outside the village of Kenmore, and the walk itself takes around an hour – but the views might make it last longer! As the fascinating Hermit’s Cave can be rather gloomy, it is recommended that a torch be taken for safety.

Glen Lyon Praying Hands

The Neolithic population of Scotland left future archaeologists and historians with countless uncrackable mysteries to puzzle over. One of these is the number of standing stones dotted across the country, such as this pair in Glen Lyon. Sometimes referred to as Fionn’s Rock, these stones are arranged similarly to a pair of hands praying towards the heavens.

Photography by @waldemarmatusik

Lochleven Castle

Like a prototype Alcatraz, Lochleven Castle sits atop an island in the centre of its namesake loch. While the isle and ruined castle lie peaceful now, in 1567, Mary Queen of Scots was imprisoned within the walls by William Douglas, who kept her in custody for eleven months. When Mary finally escaped in 1568, she would never return to Scotland again.

Photography by @caledonianino

Loch of Lowes

Cateran Trail

One of the more unique walking routes in the north, the Cateran Trail has no beginning nor end. Instead, this 103km (64 mile) track begins and ends wherever the walker decides, making it an incredibly flexible journey for tentative hikers. As the entire route is waymarked and continuously maintained by the local council, the Cateran Trail is a great way to explore the Perthshire landscape.

Beatrix Potter Garden

Although the author was born in London, Beatrix Potter was intrinsically connected with Perthshire following her family’s long holidays spent in the county. Stepping into the quaint cottage of Hill Top, there is undeniable magic at play, primarily thanks to the intrepid work of gardener Pete Tasker who has replanted the lawn back to Potter’s original vision.

Kinnoull Hill

Birnam Oak and Sycamore

Immortalised forever in the witches’ prophecy of Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the Birnam Oak and neighbouring Sycamore are all that survives of the legendary Birnam Wood. The sprawling limbs of the oak tree are an incredible site that pays tribute to its staggering age, dating back at least 500 years to the playwright’s Perthshire visit.

Phone Box Library

Operating from an obsolete phone box, the library in Bendochy is one of the smallest in the country. The villagers are firm believers in the sharing of literature, meaning the system works purely on trust, with individuals borrowing and donating books voluntarily. In the summer months, members of the community plant fruit and vegetables in the phone box, ensuring there is always a healthy and vibrant space in the village.

Dalmunzie Railway

A little over a century ago, the merchant Archibald Birkmyre constructed the Dalmunzie Railway as a means of escorting hunting parties up and down the hills of Glenshee. The lodge is now a ruin, yet the railway line still serves as a walking route for those in the area. Like the Royal Deeside line to its east, many of the community hope to see this hidden track restored to its former glory.

Cluny House Gardens

Gardening runs in the Masterton family’s veins. During the 1950s, partners Betty and Bobby began arranging what would turn into Cluny House Gardens around a few exemplar trees in the area. Now tended by their youngest daughter, the green space has only expanded over the decades, encompassing countless species of trees and smaller flora.

Scone Palace

Fittingly for the jewel in Perthshire’s crown, Scone Palace was the location of dozens of Scottish coronations over the centuries. The immense red sandstone castle is infused with more history than perhaps any other place in the country. However, there is more than historicity on offer at Scone: visitors can also traverse the pentangular hedge maze created by internationally acclaimed designer Adrian Fisher.

Huntingtower Castle

Representing one of the triumphs of Mary’s reign, Huntingtower Castle housed the Queen and her husband as they fought off the rebels’ Chaseabout Raid. The twin tower houses establish Huntingtower as a strange castle architecturally, with various hidden alcoves and secret spots used to shield some of the royals’ more precious artefacts. Dating from 1540, the beautiful hand-painted ceiling is another of the castle’s highlights.

Photography by @scotlands_stories

Tomnadashan Mine

Hidden deep within the fields northeast of Killin lies an abandoned mine, initially dug by men in search of precious materials such as sulphur and copper. Although these endeavours proved unsuccessful, Tomnadashan has nevertheless become famed for its alter-ego: the Cave of Caerbannog as encountered in Monty Python and the Holy Grail. Whether visitors confront a killer bunny or not, the location is not to be missed for fans of the Pythons.

Drummond Castle

The tranquil state of Drummond Castle belies its tumultuous history, with the building playing major roles in both Cromwell’s invasion and the Jacobite uprising. Although the privately owned castle is not open to the public, the opulent gardens are. The grounds encompass a huge amount of land, and every inch has been meticulously crafted to enchant visitors with dazzling colours and exotic flora.

Photography by @gisforgeorgina

Glen Tilt Walk

Lain across the very northern tip of Perthshire, Glen Tilt is a route formed on a fault line that stretches for around 11 miles. Glen Tilt is enclosed by the immense Atholl Estates, meaning that the surrounding areas are equally perfect for those searching for idyllic walks or cycles. Following the Glen’s path, walkers will often be accompanied by the beautiful River Tilt, whose rockpools and falls are simply enchanting.

The Fergusson Gallery

Located centrally within Perth’s city centre, the two-tiered cylindrical Fergusson Gallery is a celebration of one of Scotland’s most influential artists. J.D Fergusson, born in Leith in 1874, rapidly became a leading figure in the Scottish Colourist movement. This gallery holds his own immense collection of work and archival documents, all viewable free of charge.

Blair Castle

The chalk-white walls of Blair Castle stand out brilliantly against its surrounding sea of dark-green trees. The ancestral seat of Clan Murray, the castle passed through various hands since its construction began in 1269. Though still in private possession, the stately home offers tours and visits to tourists, giving people a chance to glimpse the truly opulent interior design of Scottish nobility.

Crocodile Rock

Bringing a small glint of fairy-tale whimsy into the Perthshire landscape, the ‘twinned’ stones lie some distance apart on the sides of the A85. Although it’s arguable just how lifelike the Frog stone is, the Crocodile stone bears significant resemblance to its namesake. Standing high above the motorway, the painting is thought to be around a century old and makes a wonderful landmark for the various walking routes in the area.

Dunkeld Cathedral

Even in the ancient era of the Picts, the Dunkeld area was held as a site of holiness. By the 7th century, Saint Columba was said to have established a monastery on the land, and even his bones were kept buried inside. Over the centuries, the cathedral evolved with the contemporary styles, meaning Dunkeld is a fascinating amalgam of varying architectural visions and movements.

Castle Menzies

First built in the 16th century, the spectacular Castle Menzies was restored into its current state during the 20th century after 500 years of warfare and weather damage. By 1957, the castle was a ruin, having been hotly contested during the Jacobite rebellion, until it was elevated by the Menzies Clan Society. Now in the hands of a charitable trust, the restored castle is freely available for public visits.

Blair Atholl Waterwheel

Although first turning in 1590, the Blair Atholl Waterwheel is a rare example of a working wheel in the 21st century. The mill produces a variety of flours and oatmeal, which in turn are crafted into delicious baked goods in the on-site café. The wheel is spun by water from the River Tilt, meaning it is one of only three operating waterwheels in the country.

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

There are fewer exports as intrinsically linked to Scotland than whisky. Scotch is part of the country’s lifeblood, and Dewar’s is one of the most celebrated producers. Aberfeldy was where Dewar’s first came into being, establishing their first distillery on the site in 1898. Visitors to the spot can join one of the frequent distillery tours that explore each step of the process (including the drinking).

River Garry

A few miles north of Pitlochry, the coursing flows of the River Garry begins its journey into the River Tummel. By extension a tributary of the River Tay, the Garry is not to be overshadowed by its larger family, especially given its scenic location and idyllic walking route. Queen Victoria, a noted lover of the Scottish landscape, commented that the river is “very fine, rolling over large stones, and forming perpetual falls”.

Birks of Aberdeldy

Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre

Pitlochry Festival Theatre

Built to keep up with the burgeoning performance art scene in the north, the Pitlochry Festival Theatre opened its doors in the late 1940s at the behest of promoter John Stewart. The theatre has remained a hotbed of up-and-coming performers, directors, and producers, who are constantly pushing the boundaries with cutting-edge scripts and breathing new life into old favourites.

The Scottish Crannog Centre

Croft Moraig Stone Circle

Travel northeast from the River Tay and down the rocky hillside and you will come across another set of enigmatic stones. Using shards of pottery found on the site, archaeologists date the circle to at least 2000BC, although they may have been arranged even earlier. There are various fascinating practices visible at Croft Moraig, from the traditional recumbent stone to what some theorize is a deliberate astronomical alignment.

Weem Wood Walk

Tucked away in the Perthshire forests, the cosy Weem Wood Walk takes visitors through the titular wood and around the surrounding landscape. This walk is excellent for viewing Perthshire from new perspectives, giving climbers fantastic panoramas of nearby Aberfeldy. The trail ends at St. David’s Well – a spring found at the back of a deep cave, where St. Cuthbert reportedly spent many nights praying.

Killiecrankie

The stunning autumnal beauty of Killiecrankie may give the impression of a tranquil area of countryside, but its dramatic history is anything but. The Battle of Killiecrankie was an incredibly violent episode in the Jacobite uprising, occurring on the 27th of July 1689. Visitors can also appreciate Soldier’s Leap – the 18-foot gap across the frothing River Garry that a Redcoat soldier cleared to escape certain death.

Elcho Castle

Castles in as good condition as Elcho are few and far between, especially ones dating back as far as the 16th century. Both the interior and exterior are fully explorable, standing as a testament to the architectural prowess of Scottish builders at the time. Even the decorative plasterwork can be viewed inside, as the incredibly fortified nature of Elcho meant little damage has stripped away the interior’s beauty.

Fortingall Yew Tree

The world’s leading botanists struggle to identify exactly how old the Fortingall Yew Tree is. However, at between 2000 and 3000 years, it is possibly the oldest living thing in Scotland. The Yew has changed shaped frequently over the centuries – in fact, its current state is far smaller than previously noted, with the trunk first being recorded as 52ft wide in 1769.

Comrie’s Earthquake House

Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre

One of the most expansive of its kind in the country, Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre has entertained locals and tourists alike for over a decade. From farmyard animals to more exotic creatures, there are over 50 species calling Auchinarrich their home, each with their own eccentric personality. Maxine and Shona, the park’s full-time keepers, are experts in the field and are always excited to teach visitors about their favourite animals.

Tummel Aqueduct

Maggie Walls Memorial

Kenmore lies at the natural end of the 14-mile River Tay, where all its dozens of tributaries coalesce into one pool. The town itself is a wonderful hub for exploring the rest of Perthshire, as well as for water-based activities across the River Tay. Elsewhere, visitors can try out some of the local golf courses or indulge in the seaside spot’s incredible fresh cuisine.

Schiehallion

Battle of Luncarty

Loch Katrine

In the shadow of the Trossachs lies the extensive freshwater Loch Katrine. At 13km long and 1km wide, the loch seems to stretch its way infinitely into the horizon, creating a gorgeous effect when viewed from afar. For those looking to explore the loch further, the Sir Walter Scott ship offers visitors a chance to sail up and down the water, letting the crisp fresh air blow away any stresses.

Loch Katrine Aqueduct

Kellie Castle

Kellie Castle is a wonderfully eccentric clash of two distant time periods. The exterior, looming over its rolling grounds of pristine green, remains faithful to its original 14th-century construction. However, falling a restoration and overhaul in the 19th century, its interior is a beautiful example of Victorian design, making Kellie Castle a must-see for anyone fascinated by unusual architecture.

Photography by @thejacobmurray

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Highland Perthshire

The Highland border cuts diagonally across Scotland from Dumbarton to Stonehaven, dividing the county of Perthshire into two distinctive regions. Highland Perthshire, spreading north of a line from Comrie to Blairgowrie, is a land of mountains, forest and lochs, with some of the finest scenery in the UK. The ancient city of Dunkeld, on the main A9 road from Perth to Inverness, is the main gateway to the region.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Highland Perthshire. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Blair Castle

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Scotland, magnificent Blair Castle – and its surrounding estates – is the seat of the Duke of Atholl, head…

Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre

Opened in 2017, this architecturally stunning visitor centre is perched above the dam on the River Tummel, and houses an exhibition that details the…

Edradour Distillery

This is proudly Scotland’s smallest and most picturesque distillery and one of the best to visit: you can see the whole process, easily explained, in one…

Dunkeld House Grounds

Waymarked walks lead upstream from Dunkeld Cathedral through the gorgeous grounds of Dunkeld House Hotel, formerly a seat of the dukes of Atholl. In the…

Dunkeld Cathedral

Situated on the grassy banks of the River Tay, Dunkeld Cathedral is one of the most beautifully sited churches in Scotland; don’t miss it on a sunny day,…

Pass of Killiecrankie

The beautiful, rugged Pass of Killiecrankie, 3.5 miles north of Pitlochry, where the River Garry tumbles through a narrow gorge, was the site of the 1689…

Castle Menzies

Castle Menzies is the 16th-century seat of the chief of clan Menzies (ming-iss), magnificently set against a forest backdrop. Inside it reeks of…

Aberfeldy Distillery

At the eastern end of Aberfeldy, the home of the famous Dewar's blend offers a good 90-minute tour. After the usual overblown film, there’s a museum…

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Highland Perthshire and beyond

How to visit: Perthshire

By: Author [email protected]

Perthshire is full of beautiful lochs, towering Munros, huge glens and the stunning ancient woodlands of the Trossachs – they don’t call Perthshire Big Tree Country for nothing. 

Most popular for its spectacular Autumn colours, you can discover this central region of Scotland by foot, SUP, kayak or even on horseback – Perthshire is a great destination for an adventure holiday. From the hills of Highland Perthshire to the city of Perth, here is my complete guide to things to do in Perthshire. 

Read more: things to do in the Trossachs

Things to do in Perthshire Map

You can view all the things to do in Perthshire on my Perthshire Map which you can save as a layer in Google Maps.

My 10 favourite things to do in Perthshire

• Take a stroll at the Hermitage, Dunkeld – walk in an 18th-century pleasure garden filled with giant Douglas Fir trees to Ossian’s Hall, where a viewing platform reveals the tumbling Black Linn Falls below.
• Climb up to Creag an Tuirc, Balquhidder – a simply stunning viewpoint high above the small village of Balquhidder. 
• Visit the Linn of Tummel, Garry Bridge – hike through pretty woodlands to a dramatic gorge. 
• Hike Ben A’an – climb this ‘mountain in miniature’ for an incredible view across Loch Katrine- one of the best in Scotland. 
• Climb Ben Ledi, Callandar – the mountain of God’ dominates the Trossachs town of Callander. Starting from the edge of Loch Lubnaig it is a steady walk up a good path. 
• Discover Loch Katrine – take a steam ship out on the pretty Loch Katrine – one of the sources of water for the city of Glasgow! 
• Visit Pitlochry in Autumn for spectacular colours at Killiekrankie and Faskally Wood.
• Hike The Birks of Aberfeldy , made famous by Robert Burns’ famous 1787 poem. 
• Visit the Deil’s Cauldron and Glen Lednock before climbing up to the Melville Monument.
• Drive to the end of Scotland’s longest Glen – Glen Lyon – to visit the Post Office and Tea Room.

The best walks in Perthshire – low level and short 

From loch-side strolls to waterfalls and forest, here are my favourite short walks in Perthshire.

• The falls of Acharn, Kenmore  – the falls at Acharn are a series of dramatic waterfalls above the banks of Loch Tay. 1.25 miles. Falls of Acharn, near Kenmore
• The Birks of Aberfeldy –  follow in the footsteps of a Robert Burns song to explore the waterfalls above Aberfeldy. 2.5 miles. Walk – The Birks of Aberfeldy
• The Birnam Oak, Dunkeld – explore the River Tay at Dunkeld to find the Birnham Oak, 00 year old oak tree mentioned in Shakespeare’s Macbeth. 3.75 miles. Walk Birnam Oak and the River Tay, Dunkeld
• The Deli’s Cauldron, Comrie – take a short walk up to the two viewing platforms for the waterfalls – the Wee Cauldron, and the more dramatic Deil’s (Devil’s) Cauldron or do the walk as a circuit through the glen, and climb up to the Melville Monument for a fine view across Perthshire. 2 miles (there and back) 4-mile circular. Walk – The Deil’s Cauldron and the Melville Monument, Comrie
• Kinnoull Hill, Perth – with dramatic wooded cliffs, and a fantastic romantic folly, Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park gives spectacular views across Perth and to the countryside beyond. Visit Kinnoull Hill .
• The Hermitage, Dunkeld – an 18th-century pleasure garden filled with giant Douglas Fir trees. The most popular is to walk to Ossian’s Hall, where a viewing platform reveals the tumbling Black Linn Falls below. 2 miles – The Hermitage and Braan Walk, Dunkeld
• Creag an Tuirc, Balquhidder – a simply stunning viewpoint high above the small village of Balquhidder. 1.5miles – walk Creag an Tuirc, Balquhidder
• Linn of Tummel, Garry Bridge – follow the River Tummel to a dramatic Linn (cleft through pretty woodlands. 6.75 miles. Walk Linn of Tummel circuit, Garry Bridge

Perthshire Munros and other mountains

Split by the Highland Boundary Fault, Perthshire’s Grampian mountains give great views over its many lochs. Why not bag a Munro in Perthshire?

Not hill walked in Scotland before? Read my beginners guide first before deciding to bag a Munro.

• Ben A’an – climb this ‘mountain in miniature’ for an incredible view across Loch Katrine- one of the best in Scotland. Distance. Climb Ben A’an .
• Ben Vrackie, near Pitlochry – an incredibly popular hill walk above the town of Pitlochry. Meaning ‘Speckled Mountain’ the walk up the hill starts just past the small hamlet at Moulin – spot the pub for your return! Climb Ben Vrackie.  
• Ben Ledi, Calendar – the mountain of God’ dominates the Trossachs town of Callander. Starting from the edge of Loch Lubnaig it is a steady walk up a good path.  4 hours. 879m. Climb Ben Ledi . 
• Schiehallion – meaning “Fairy Hill of the Caledonians” with a well-made path most of the way up the mountain, that is until you reach the legendary (and very hard!) boulder field at the top. Schiehallion route via Walkhighlands
• Ben Vorlich, Loch Earn – ‘The Hill of the Bay’ at Loch Earn (don’t mistake this one for the one at Loch Lomond) is one of the most popular beginners Munros with fantastic views down to Loch Earn and across to the Ben Lawers range on Loch Tay. Climb Ben Vorlich.
• Meall Nam Tarmachan – Gaelic for the ‘Hill of the Ptarmigan’, Meall Nam Tarmachan in the Ben Lawers Range above Loch Tay is a very quick Munro climb with rewarding views for very little work. For a full day out take the spectacular, but a lot more challenging, Tarmachan Ridge back down. Climb Meall Nam Tarmachan .
• Ben Lawers and Beinn Ghlas – Ben Lawers (1214m) might be the 10th highest mountain in Scotland, but thankfully you don’t have to climb all of it. It isn’t quite as hard as it seems… Starting at 400m at the Ben Lawers Nature Reserve you pop over the small Beinn Glass (1103m) before finally climbing up to the summit of Ben Lawers. Climb Ben Lawers .

Things to do Perthshire – the lochs

While better known as Big Tree Country, Perthshire also has 47 lochs to explore. Here are my favourites. 

Loch Tay – stretching from Kenmore to Killin, Loch Tay has gentle bankside walks to whisky tasting at Dewars Distillery and traditional buildings at the Scottish Crannog Centre . However, if, like me, you like to get up to something a little more adventurous, why not discover the loch on Loch Tay Safaris RIB, go paddle boarding from Taymouth Marina, hike in Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve  or go horse riding at Mains of Taymouth Stables. Stop for dinner in Killin where the Falls of Dochart tumble into the loch. Read more visit Loch Tay .

Loch Earn – visit the pretty Perthshire village of St Fillans on Loch Earn before going boating on the loch or climbing Ben Vorlich, one of Scotland’s more popular Munros. 

Loch Rannoch and Loch Tummel – the famous Queen’s View across Loch Tummel is one of Scotland’s most popular views – even if Queen Victoria once thought the view was named after her (hint, its not, it was named after Isabella, Robert the Bruce’s first wife, from 500 years before!) Nearby, climb the famous Schiehallion from the Braes of Foss – there is a great view of the mountain from Loch Rannoch.

Loch Voil – Ddep in the heart of Perthshire lies Loch Voil, a small loch just 8km in length. At the head of the loch is Balquidder (pronounced Balwhidder) sits a small village with a famous resident in the graveyard, Scottish folk hero Rob Roy McGregor. However, this was not always Red Robert’s land, for it was once Clan MacClaren country; the lands around the loch were a battleground for ownership with Clan MacGregor. For a true taste climb Creag an Turic above the village – it was once the rallying point for the Maclarens. You can see why it was used as a lookout – you can see for miles.

Loch Katrine – take a steam ship out on the pretty Loch Katrine or climb up Ben A’an or Ben Venue for a spectacular view of this loch – one of the sources of water for the city of Glasgow! 

Three lochs Forest Drive – closed to cars over winter, but open to cyclists all year round, the beautiful 7-mile Three Lochs Forest Drive visits Lochan Reòidhte, Loch Drunkie and Loch Achray and takes you over the beautiful Dukes Pass.

Places to visit in Perthshire – towns and villages 

Looking for a Perthshire town or village to make your base?

Things to do in Perth

Sitting on the banks of the beautiful River Tay, Scotland’s Fair City might be one of the smallest cities in Scotland, but this ancient place was once Scotland’s capital. Now the gateway to the Scottish Highlands and the heart of spectacular Perthshire, the city of Perth is one of the best places to visit in Perthshire in its own right. There are lots of things to do in Perth including Scone Place, Branklyn Garden and Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park.

Here are the best things to do in Perth Scotland

Things to do Callander, Strathyre and Doune

Callander is one of central Scotland’s ‘hubs’ and a great place to stop, stay or eat as you explore Perthshire. 

• Climb up to the stunning Bracklinn Falls and Upper Crags
• Hike up Ben Ledi, returning via the pretty Stank Glen 
• Grab fish and chips from  Mhor Fish or pies from Mhor Bread , or stop for longer at Mhor tearoom.
• Stop for cakes and coffee at Strathyre at the Broch Cafe  
• Visit Doune Castle – made famous by Outlander and Monty Python

Things to do Aberfoyle

A pretty village to make as a base for exploring the Queen Elizabeth Forest in Perthshire, Aberfoyle is also one of the prettiest places to visit in Perthshire.

• Take a steamer out on Loch Katrine from the Trossachs Pier
• Stroll the Doon Hill and Fairy Knowe walk
• Discover the Three Lochs Forest Drive
• Visit the The Lodge Forest Visitor Centre at Duke’s Pass

Things to do Pitlochry 

One of Perthshire’s biggest towns, and a hub for Perthshire activities, Pitlochry has hotels, restaurants and lots of beautiful walks.

• Visit Castle Menzies which was host to Bonnie Prince Charlie
• Climb Ben Vrackie
• Take in a show at Pitlochry Festival Theatre
• Visit the salmon ladder at Pitlochry Dam
• Visit the Blair Atholl distillery 
• Go shopping at the House of Bruar and walk up to the falls of Bruar
• Explore Faskally Wood – home to the enchanted forest light show in autumn and winter. 
• Go bungee jumping at the spectacular Killiecrankie Gorge  
• Explore the Black Spout Wood to find the impressive Black Spout waterfall.

Things to do Aberfeldy

One of the smaller places to visit in Perthshire, Aberfeldy has lovely walks and a great distillery.

• Hike The Birks of Aberfeldy , made famous by Robert Burns’ famous 1787 poem 
• Visit Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery for a dram or two 
• Catch a film at the Birks Cinema or pick up a book at The Watermill .

Things to do Dunkeld and Birnam

One of my favourite places to visit in Perthshire, Dunkeld is a lovely village from which to explore. Here is what to get up to in Dunkeld.

• Walk along the River Tay to the Birnam Oak 
• Visit the victorian Hermitage  with its lovely walks and waterfalls.
• See the ospreys at Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve
• Stroll around pretty Dunkeld to the Cathedral and pop into boutique shops
• Have a drink on the river at the Taybank Hotel 
• Visit the Beatrix Potter Exhibition and Garden at Birnam Arts Centre.

Things to do Crieff and Comrie

Stretching from Glen Lyon to Tyndrum, Balqhuider and Comrie, the beautiful Breadlebane or “Bràghaid Alban”(the High Ground of Scotland) area of Perthshire is mostly undiscovered by those who normally venture further north to Glencoe or the highlands. Comrie is located on the Highland Fault line and experiences more tremors than anywhere else in Scotland – giving it its name ‘shaky toun’. 

• Families will love Auchingarrich Wildlife Centre .
• Visit Cultybraggan Camp , a World War II prisoner of war camp.
• Explore the stunning Drummond Castle Gardens .
• Visit the Famous Grouse Experience at the Glenturret Distillery – now home to a Michelin starred restaurant.

Things to do Blairgowrie and East Perthshire

Beyond big tree country and heading to the hills of the Cairngorms is the busy town of Blairgowrie, otherwise known as Cataran Country.

• Hike the Cateran Trail, a long-distance foot-path from the main town in the region, Blairgowrie to Strathardle, to Spittal of Glenshee and then on to Kirkton of Glenisla and Alyth.
• Drive the 90miles of snow roads up into the Cairngorms to go sking or munro bagging.
• See the Meikleor Hedge, a 36m high and 530m long beach hedge – the highest in the world.

Where is Perthshire?

One of Scotland’s most central regions, Perthshire is split between the highlands and the lowlands, with the hills of the Grampian mountains to the north and the lowland city of Perth. Perthshire is around 1 hour north from Edinburgh and Glasgow.  

How to get to Perthshire, Scotland

• By car –  Perth sits on the M90 motorway and is around 1.5 hours north from the city to Edinburgh. The city is also on the A9 to Stirling, Glasgow and Inverness in the north. Other nearby towns include Crieff and Crianlarich, Blairgowrie and Braemar, and the A90 to Dundee and Aberdeen.
• By Train and Bus  – Perth has a mainline train station and is connected to the rest of Scotland by City Link and Stagecoach buses. The best way to book your train tickets in Scotland is with Trainline.com .

Where to stay in Perthshire 

The Meikleour Arms, Cateran Country – Built in 1820 as a coaching inn for those travelling from Edinburgh to Inverness, and then a fishing lodge, the Meikleour Arms Hotel has 11 bedrooms in the main hotel, cottages in the stables and steading, and a lovely French-Scottish farm to fork restaurant.

Comrie Croft, Breadlebane – With gorgeous views, quiet secluded woodland pitches, sunny camping fields, a hostel, Swedish katas, a friendly vibe, a great little cafe, mountain biking trails, as well a gold award for green tourism, it is safe to say that Comrie Croft ticks all the campsite boxes. 

Murrayshall House Hotel , nr Scone – Sitting in 365 acres of beautiful grounds, Murrayshall was built in 1664 and now has 40 bedrooms and suites all with stunning views of the grounds and out over the Perthshire countryside, a modern fine dining brasserie, a cosy cocktail bar and its own an 18-hole golf course.

Monachyle Mhor / Mhor 84 , Balquidder – located on the edge of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park, Mhor 84 and its big sister Monachyle Mhor just up the road, are stylish and vintage chic boutique hotels with a fantastic welcome, glamping options anc chic rooms, along with even more fantastic food. 

Grandtully Hotel  / Ballintaggart Farm – the Grandtully Hotel and Ballintaggart Farm are foodie boltholes in the heart of Perthshire, on the famous River Tay. Indulge in stylish rooms, farm to fork menus and great cocktails. 

More places to stay in Perthshire

• Old Manse of Blair – a luxury hotel with a rather good restaurant 
• Bankfoot Inn – stay in a traditional Perthshire Inn
• Stay at Huntingtower near Perth which sits in 6 acres of grounds
• Blackhill Farm Cottage a self-catering cottage near Scone Palace
• Riverside Cottage in Crief is perfect for exploring dog friendly Perthshire
• Burmieston has self catering accommodation and BBQ facilities
• The Auld Manse guesthouse sits on the banks of the River Tay
• Glencroft – a thatched cottage B&B

Like this? More Scotland regions to explore

Love, from Scotland x

The travel blogger and photographer behind Love from Scotland

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Genteel, attractive Perthshire is, in many ways, the epitome of well-groomed rural Scotland. An area of gentle glens, mature woodland, rushing rivers and peaceful lochs, it’s the long-established domain of Scotland’s well-to-do country set.

Highland Perthshire

Rannoch moor, outdoor activities in perthshire.

First settled more than eight thousand years ago, it was ruled by the Romans and then the Picts before Celtic missionaries established themselves.

The ancient town of Perth occupies a strategic position at the mouth of the River Tay. Salmon, wool and, by the sixteenth century, whisky, were exported, while a major import was Bordeaux claret.

At nearby Scone , Kenneth MacAlpine established the capital of the kingdom of the Scots and the Picts in 846. When this settlement was washed away by floods in 1210, William the Lion founded Perth as a royal burgh.

North and west of Perth, Highland Perthshire is made up of gorgeous and mighty woodlands, particularly along the banks of the River Tay. The area is dotted with neat, confident towns and villages like Dunkeld and Birnam, with its mature trees and lovely ruined cathedral, and Aberfeldy set deep amongst farmland east of Loch Tay.

Further north, the countryside becomes more sparsely populated and spectacular, with some wonderful walking country, especially around Pitlochry, Blair Atholl and the wild expanses of Rannoch Moor to the west.

Tailor-made travel itineraries for Scotland, created by local experts

20 days  / from 2994 USD

The Great British Road Trip

Get ready to explore Britain on this unique self-drive road trip. Choose the car of your liking before you hit the road: from the Cotswolds and its picturesque villages over the Beatle's favorite hang-out in Liverpool to Scotland's capital Edinburgh: this trip includes many highlights to be explored

6 days  / from 613 USD

Festive Feelings around Christmas in Scotland

Experience the magic of Christmas in the heart of the Scottish Highlands! Lovely Christmas Markets and winter festivals await visitors during the winter months, but this itinerary can also be turned into a summer festival hop!

11 days  / from 1070 USD

Scotland's Wildest Natural Scenery

Want to lose yourself in Scotland's wildest natural scenery? This itinerary is a breath of fresh air and perfect to explore the most enchanting landscapes of the Highlands. It will allow you to get to know the wildest landscapes of Scotland, its fast-paced history and its amazing traditions.

North of the Tay valley, Perthshire doesn’t discard its lush richness immediately, but there are clear indications of the more rugged, barren influences of the Highlands proper. The principal settlements of Pitlochry and Blair Atholl, both just off the A9, are separated by the narrow gorge of Killiecrankie, a crucial strategic spot in times past for anyone seeking to control movement of cattle or armies from the Highlands to the Lowlands. Pitlochry aso features in our reader survey of the most beautiful places in Scotland .

Greater rewards, however, are to be found further from the main drag, most notably in the winding westward road along the shores of Loch Tummel and Loch Rannoch past the distinctive peak of Schiehallion, which eventually leads to the remote wilderness of Rannoch Moor.

Rannoch Moor occupies roughly 150 square miles of uninhabited and uninhabitable peat bogs, lochs, heather hillocks, strewn lumps of granite and a few gnarled Caledonian pine, all of it more than 1000ft above sea level. This has earned Rannoch Moor a vote to one of the most beautiful places in Scotland by Rough Guides' readers.

Perhaps the most striking thing about the moor is its inaccessibility: one road, between Crianlarich and Glen Coe, skirts its western side, while another struggles west from Pitlochry to reach its eastern edge at Rannoch Station.

The only regular form of transport is the West Highland railway, which stops at Rannoch and, a little to the north, Corrour Station, which has no road access at all. From Rannoch Station it is possible to catch the train to Corrour and walk the nine miles back. It is a longer slog west to the eastern end of Glen Coe, the dramatic peaks of which poke up above the moor’s western horizon.

Determined hillwalkers will find a clutch of Munros around Corrour, including remote Ben Alder (3765ft), high above the forbidding shores of Loch Ericht.

• Where to stay
• Best for a little luxury and stunning views: Loch Leven Hotel & Distillery
• Best for families: Springwell Croft Cottages
• Loch Ossian Youth Hostel: A mile from Corrour train station on the shores of Loch Ossian. This comfortable, cosy – and remote – eco-hostel is a great place for hikers seeking somewhere genuinely off the beaten track. Good wildlife-watching opportunities, too.

In Perthshire, outdoor activities range from gentle strolls through ancient oak forests to white-knuckle rides down frothing waterfalls. The variety of landscapes and relative accessibility from the central belt has led to a significant number of outdoor operators being based in the area: the tourist board’s Activity Line can give advice and contacts for more than thirty companies who comply with the Adventure Perthshire Operators’ Charter.

• Highland Adventure Safaris: An inspiring introduction to wild Scotland in which you’re taken by 4WD to search for golden eagle eyries, stags and pine martens.
• Nae Limits: Canyoning, cliff-jumping, bungee jumping and sphere-ing (which involves tumbling down a hillside inside a giant plastic ball) for adrenalin junkies.
• National Kayak School: Everything from whitewater kayaking courses to sea-kayaking holidays.
• Splash: Rafting on larger craft through the best rapids on the Tay at Grandtully.

Discover more places in Scotland

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written by Rough Guides Editors

updated 26.04.2021

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Four Seasons . More Reasons

to Pitlochry

Pitlochry is one of Scotland's most beautiful and vibrant places to visit.

In the heart of Scotland with real hospitality, clear sparkling air, beautiful scenery, rich clan history, fine food, plenty of space and lots to see and do. Pitlochry is primarily a holiday destination, which caters for the holiday maker year round in its own special way.

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There is always something happening in Pitlochry whatever the time of year. Come along and experience our events and festivals.

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Welcome to Pitlochry

We look forward to welcoming you to Pitlochry and Highland Perthshire. Come and enjoy the magnificent scenery, lovely walks, woodland trails and the abundance of places and things to see, do and visit.

We continue to have a thriving busy town centre, lots of new businesses have opened up and we wish them all good luck for the future.

Pitlochry Festival Theatre is now fully open this year and later Explorers Garden will re-open. Local events, Highland Nights, Pitlochry Highland Games, The Enchanted Forest, live music and community events are all taking place and you can check for details on our Events page to see our What's on page.

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Etape Caledonia Event

Now with 85, 55 & 40 mile route options, and open to riders aged between 18 and 80, it is Britain's first mass closed-road cycling event and traverses some of the most beautiful parts of Highland Perthshire.

A Highland Night is an evening of traditional entertainment, full of Scottish Music and Dance, hosted by the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band. The evening begins at about 19:30 with the Pipe Band marching.

The Ladies Highland Open

Play in Scotland's most Iconic Ladies Open Amateur Weeks. A week of Golf and social events second to none. Pitlochry Golf Course is proud to welcome you to the home of the Highland Open.

The Mens Highland Open

Play in Scotland's most Iconic Gents Open Amateur Weeks. A week of Golf and social events second to none. Pitlochry Golf Course is proud to welcome you to the home of the Highland Open.

The Pitlochry Market

The Pitlochry Market will run on every 3rd Saturday from April to October. We also intend to run a weekly market during the 3 main school holiday periods. Easter, Summer and October Holidays.

The Enchanted Forest

With dazzling visuals and innovative design set against an original music score explore the stunning autumn woodland setting of Faskally Wood near Pitlochry. Scotland's premier sound and light experience.

Pitlochry Highland Games

These games were first held on the 10th September 1852 and have been held annually on the 2nd Saturday in September except for the period of the World Wars. Gates open 9.30 am Games from 10.30am to 5.30pm

Scottish County Dancing

Come along and join us on the dance floor, or watch and listen to the music provided by some of Scotland's best bands. Everyone is welcome to attend. Admission: Dancer: £7, Spectator: £2

The Winter Words Festival is held every February in Pitlochry Festival Theatre. Highlights of some of the names in previous festivals include Gregor Fisher, Michael Palin, Neil Oliver, Christ Bonnington & Vince Cable.

Taking place every year in March, the festival takes place in Pitlochry's town hall and McKay's Bar

New Year's Day Street Party

1st January 2025

The New Year celebration was started by Pitlochry's Community Council to mark the new millennium. It was such a success that it has continued and grown year on year, with some 3,000 people participating each year.

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All The Pitlochry Local Groups and Culture Events

Known affectionately by many as the “Theatre in the Hills”, Pitlochry Festival Theatre (PFT) is a focal point in Highland Perthshire life, offering a varied and exciting programme of events all year round.

Welcome to another packed programme of plays, concerts and workshops at Scotland’s Theatre in the Hills. Plan your trip to see one or more of these fabulous productions this Summer season.

The Pitlochry Winter Lighting Scheme starts in early October and runs until late February each year. The town is illuminated with over 60 winter LED lights and lighting features across the dark winter months.

Pitlochry Station

Pitlochry is very proud of its busy Station. Direct links to Inverness, Edinburgh and London Kings Cross make for pleasant travelling and enjoying the stunning scenery.

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One of Pitlochry's real strengths as a town is that it has a large number of volunteer groups and organisations, all working for the good of the town each has its own particular area of specialism. Every group contributes something to the town in some way or another, working together, to help to make Pitlochry what it is today, a successful vibrant highland town.

Groups include Pitlochry in Bloom, the Bowling Club, the Atholl Players and the Community Choir to name just a few.

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Cateran Trail Tour

Explore the Cateran Trail, a stunning 103km circular walking route through Scotland's heartland, featuring diverse terrains from farmlands to mountains. Dive into history on paths once trodden by drovers, and enjoy breathtaking scenery across charming villages. Perfect for adventurers of all levels, tackle it in stages for an unforgettable journey. Ready for an adventure?

>>>Start your Cateran Trail journey today<<<

Visit Perthshire’s Cateran Country

The highlands, the lowlands and everything in between, visit cateran country.

Perthshire’s Cateran Country is in the heart of Scotland, making it an ideal base for a touring trip or for a holiday for all the family. We look forward to welcoming you to this stunning part of the world to see and experience for yourself just how much our area has to offer, whether you are looking for a mini-break or a longer stay in one of Scotland’s last remaining undiscovered secrets.

There’s always a lot going on in east Perthshire, and as most people know, we love a good celebration here in Scotland.

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Scottish food and drink is amongst the best in the world, and Blairgowrie’s reputation as the ‘Berry toon’ puts east Perthshire and its wonderful local produce firmly at the heart of that.

Eat and Drink

Cateran Country is located in Perthshire, the heart of Scotland, and is an ideal base for a touring holiday or as a destination in its own right.

Getting Here

There is so much to see in east Perthshire that you are spoiled for choice. From rolling fields, beautiful glens, impressive mountains, rivers, lochs and waterfalls and centuries old trees, we have it all in terms of scenery.

Planing your adventure?

Whether you are looking for a stylish hotel break in Blairgowrie – the largest town in Perthshire – a luxury boutique guest house stay, self-catering in picturesque cottages, log cabins or treehouses, a stay in a historic Scottish castle, an off-grid shepherd’s hut experience, or a night under the stars in a tent, you can find it all in Cateran country.

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East Perthshire is home to the largest town in Perth and Kinross, Blairgowrie, as well as a number of other smaller villages such as Alyth, Meigle, Coupar Angus and Kirkmichael – as well as the beautiful and stunning glens, Glenshee and Glenisla.

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Highland Perthshire is fast becoming one of the most popular holiday destinations in Scotland, with a variety of accommodation providers, attractions and eateries available to the tourist. With wonderful small towns such as Pitlochry and Aberfeldy , with a vast array of attractions, from distilleries and breweries to loch fishing and boating, there is something in Highland Perthshire to suit all ages and pockets!! Highland Perthshire is probably most famous for its wonderful scenery; lochs, glens and forests are laced with interesting walks and hiking trails, as well as a wealth of scottish wildlife and fauna.

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Autumn travel guide for perthshire: 9 things to do in perthshire in autumn.

Nowhere does autumn quite like Perthshire! The region also nicknamed Big Tree Country is famous for its extensive woodlands, numerous lochs and rivers, and towering Highland mountains – and of course its autumn colours. In this post, I tell you more about my favourite places to immerse yourself in the seasonal display and enjoy autumn in Scotland.

This post contains affiliate links from which I may make a commission. Find out more here . All opinions are my own.

Autumn is a fantastic time to travel around Scotland, especially if you love witnessing the change of seasons, going for walks and stepping on crunching leaves, or settling down in a cosy armchair with a good book and a hot beverage.

This post contains everything you need to know for an autumn trip to Perthshire, including where to stay and eat, what to see, the best road trips, events and hikes for the seasons.

Table of Contents

Autumn Travel in Perthshire

Where is perthshire.

Perthshire is a region in the heart of Scotland – quite literally, the geographic centre of mainland Scotland is located a few kilometres off Schiehallion mountain. The city of Perth is the main hub of the region, but there are several other smaller towns and villages perfect as a home base, such as Pitlochry, Aberfeldy or Crieff.

Pitlochry lies about 1.5 to 2 hours drive from Glasgow or Edinburgh, making it an easy destination for a day trip, a weekend getaway or a longer holiday in Big Tree Country.

You can also reach Perthshire by train – for example, stations in Pitlochry or Dunkeld and Birnam for The Hermitage – and utilise the local bus system; but a car will give you the most flexibility and reach.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: Practical Guide to Hiring a Car in Scotland

Reasons to Visit Perthshire in Autumn

Autumn is arguably the best time to visit Perthshire because the woodlands of the area light up in all shades of yellow, red and orange. The autumn display in the forests is really quite spectacular! 

Of course, the colours of nature are not the only reason to visit Perthshire in autumn. Despite its famous autumn foliage, Perthshire is off the beaten track and offers a relaxed environment for a trip to the Scottish Highlands.

Furthermore, there are many events at this time of the year, such as the Scottish Tree Festival and The Enchanted Forest near Pitlochry (see below).

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 10 Reasons to travel to Scotland in Off-Season

Things to do Perthshire in Autumn

There are a lot of things to do in Perthshire and most of these are fun to do at any time of the year. But there is really no better time to experience the woodlands, quirky villages and hikes in Perthshire than during autumn!

Photograph Autumn Foliage at Killiecrankie Gorge

Killiecrankie is a beautiful wooded river gorge along the River Garry. There are many places of interest to visit here: from the picturesque footbridge near the B8019 to woodland walks through the gorge and Soldier’s Leap – the spot where a Redcoat soldier leapt 18 ft across the raging River Garry, fleeing the Jacobites.

At Killiecrankie Visitor Centre you can learn more about the Battle of Killiecrankie in 1689.

PS: You can bungee jump from the bridge at Killiecrankie gorge – can you spot them in the picture below?!

Road Trip to Queen’s View

It’s easy to think that Queen’s View over Loch Tummel was named after Queen Victoria – like so many other places in Scotland. She even believed so herself, when she visited this spot in 1866. It is very likely though, that Queen’s View was named after Isabella, the first wife of King Robert the Bruce.

The drive up to Queen’s View is narrow and winding, so take your time for the drive. The reward at the end is this stunning view of Loch Tummel, the mountains of the Highlands in the distance, and a steamy cup of tea from the Queen’s View Visitor Centre .

Go hiking at The Hermitage

The Hermitage is one of the most popular woodland areas for walks to see autumn colours in  Scotland! The Douglas firs in this forest are among the tallest trees in the UK and red squirrels still road these woodlands plentiful.

A particularly special place to visit is Ossian’s Hall from where you can get a magnificent view of Black Linn Falls . Find out more here .

Visiting the charming town Pitlochry

Pitlochry is a picturesque Victorian town in the heart of Perthshire, right on the shores of River Tummel. There are a lot of things to do in and around Pitlochry – enough to warrant its own blog post one day. Whether you stop for just a few hours or spend several nights here, Pitlochry is one you will always remember. 

The bustling high street is lined with cafes, restaurants and shops. I recommend Hettie’s Tearoom for lunch or afternoon tea – they have over 100 kinds of tea to choose from and several vegan-friendly sweet & savoury food items on the menu.

There are two whisky distilleries offering tours, Blair Atholl Distillery and Edradour Distillery . From the centre of Pitlochry, it is a short walk to River Tummel and walking paths each side of the water.

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 20 Beautiful Towns to Visit in Scotland

The Enchanted Forest

The Enchanted Forest is a fixture in Scotland’s autumn calendar. Every year for a month, Faskally Wood near Pitlochry turns into a fascinating world of lights and sounds. This year’s theme is Cosmos and the forest provides a natural backdrop for the award-winning light installation.

Note that the 2020 show has been cancelled due to the Covid-19 pandemic. However, tickets for 2021 will go on sale soon – make sure you book yours fast as tickets are likely to sell out even quicker than usually!

TOP TIP S Wrap up warm and bring waterproofs , just in case. Bring cash for the food & drink outlets – credit cards won’t work due to lack of reception. Leave your car in Pitlochry and take the shuttle bus to Faskally Wood – there is no access for private vehicles or taxis (apart for disabled access). Make a weekend out of it and stay overnight if you can ! That way you can avoid traffic and maximise your autumn experience in Perthshire.

Climb a Munro

There are numerous Munros in Perthshire – that’s a mountain over 3,000ft – and many of them are pretty beginner-friendly.

Just make sure you read my beginner’s guide to Munro bagging to know what you’re getting yourself into.

Thanks to its perfect cone-like shape, Schiehallion is one of the most well-known Munros in Scotland. The hike starts at the Braes of Foss car park near Tummel Bridge.

The first part of the path is very easy to follow, but the terrain gets tougher up on the ridge. The views from the top are worth the effort though. You can see the surrounding lochs (Tummel, Rannoch and Dunalastair Reservoir), and peaks of Glencoe in the distance. The hike descends the same way down. It takes approximately 4-6 hours in total. Find out more here .

Another Munro with a straight-forward path is Ben Chonzie near Crieff. The hike starts from the tiny Ben Chonzie car park in Invergeldie.

The majority of the hike follows a wide track through the holly moorland. The last bit of the trail leads through sometimes boggy heather before crossing the plateau to the summit. It takes approximately 4-5 hours to complete. Find out more here .

Finally, for a fairly easy double-Munro day, consider climbing Beinn Ghlas and Ben Lawers in the Lawers Range. The hike starts from the Ben Lawers car park near Killin.

The path up the first peak is steep but straight-forward to follow. There is a slight dip between the two summits, but you will barely notice thanks for the stunning views all around. It takes 4-6 hours to complete this hike. Find out more here .

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: 13 great Munros for Beginners

Immerse yourself in Scottish Poetry at the Birks of Aberfeldy

Aberfeldy is another great hub in Perthshire and offers many things to do and see, just like Pitlochry. There is a whisky distillery ( Dewar’s ), an epic book shop with a great cafe ( Watermill Bookshop ) and a bunch of cafes, shops and eateries to browse on a crisp autumn day. 

The circular walk around the Birks of Aberfeldy is an absolute highlight. The path leads through the beautiful woodlands in the outskirts of the village and past a series of stunning waterfalls in all sizes. At the top of the gorge, the path crosses over the Falls of Moness. The Birks of Aberfeldy was named after one of Robert Burns’ poems and along the path, you can find signs with inscriptions of his words.

Plan about two hours for this walk and make sure you wear proper footwear, as it can get slippery near the waterfalls. Find more info here .

You might also like: How to celebrate Burns Night with all its traditions

Walk to the Falls of Bruar

The walk to the Falls of Bruar leads through a beautiful moss-covered forest and along the gorge carved by the Bruar Water. You can park up by the House of Bruar shopping complex -great to get some Scottish souvenirs or a bite to eat – and start the walk there.

It takes about 10-15 minutes to walk to the Lower Falls on an easy path. You can continue walking towards the Upper Falls, but the path is becoming more challenging as you progress. 

Road Trip down Glen Lyon

If you are looking for a scenic drive in Perthshire, look no further than Glen Lyon. A narrow single-road track road leads deep down into the valley. The road is lined by tall mountains and Munros such as the Lawers range in the south and Carn Gorm, Meall Garbh, Carn Mairg and Creag Mhor in the north. At the eastern entrance to the glen, visit Castle Menzies and the Fortingall Yew Tree , one of Britain’s oldest trees.

Deeper down in the glen, stop for lunch at the Glen Lyon Post Office & Shop or take a detour on the mountain road to Ben Lawers nature reserve .

YOU MIGHT ALSO LIKE: The Most Scenic Road Trips in Scotland

Perthshire Travel Guide

Where to stay in perthshire.

There are many great places to stay in Perthshire.

Hotel | All the vegans out there will love to hear that there is a vegan hotel in Pitlochry, opened in June 2019, called Soarsa 1875 . They offer several rooms in a beautiful Victorian house in the heart of Pitlochry.

B&B | On my most recent trip to Perthshire, we stayed at Ashbank House B&B , a traditional bed and breakfast in Pitlochry. It lies just a 10-minute walk from the town centre but overlooks the forest in a very quaint location. It offers everything you’d expect from a traditional B&B – warm Scottish hospitality, great amenities and a delicious cooked breakfast. There are three rooms and you can book here !

Self-catering Cottage | On another trip to Perthshire, we rented a rustic cabin in Glen Lyon – half an hour west of Aberfeldy, but what feels like miles away from the bustling town. It’s available here ! We had a wood stove to keep us warm, a skylight to watch the stars above and a woodland with trails and paths at our doorstep. It would make for the perfect stay for an autumn getaway!

Vegan-friendly places to eat in Perthshire

Here are some of my favourite vegan-friendly places to eat in Perthshire:

Saorsa 1875 Hotel in Pitlochry | The hotel is open to non-residents, but booking is essential – no walk-ins. There is one dinner sitting with a 5-course tasting menu, Thursday to Monday. I can’t wait to try it on my next trip! 2 E Moulin Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5DW, +44 1796 475217, website .

269 Vegan in Perth | This vegan cafe – the only of its kind in the city of Perth – serves delicious food in a very cool environment. The interior looks like the beach house you’ve always dreamt of! 37A S Methven St, Perth PH1 5NU, website .

Hettie’s Tearoom in Pitlochry | This tearoom offers over 100 kinds of tea and a wide selection of lunch items as well as afternoon tea. They always have some vegan options available, both sweet and savoury. 95 Atholl Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5AB, +44 1796 473991, website .

The Watermill Book Shop in Aberfeldy | This quirky independent book shop offers a wide selection of handpicked books upstairs and a cosy cafe downstairs. They have vegan options on the menu, including cakes and hot drinks. Mill St, Aberfeldy PH15 2BG, +44 1887 822896, website .

Atholl Arms in Dunkeld | At the Atholl Arms Hotel in Dunkeld, you can choose from a riverside restaurant, the bistro and the bar. They offer traditional Scottish cuisine but also have a separate vegan menu. Bridgehead, Tay Terrace, Dunkeld PH8 0AQ, +44 1350 727219, website .

Fern Cottage Restaurant in Pitlochry | This restaurant is located in the centre of Pitlochry and has a separate vegan menu with several delicious options. Ferry Rd, Pitlochry PH16 5DD, +44 1796 473840, website .

As you can see, there are many ways to immerse yourself in the autumn colours in Perthshire and enjoy an autumn trip to Scotland!

Ready to indulge in the changing seasons?

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Perthshire Scotland

Perthshire is fast becoming one of the most popular holiday destinations in Scotland, with a variety of accommodation providers, attractions and eateries available to the tourist.

In this site we list a variety of accommodation providers, from hotels and guest houses to caravan parks and self catering properties. Attractions and restaurants are also listed, so you can plan your entire holiday in Highland Perthshire on this site!

Highland Perthshire is probably most famous for its wonderful scenery; lochs, glens and forests are laced with interesting walks and hiking trails, as well as a wealth of scottish wildlife and fauna.

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Perth granted coach friendly status

A press release from Perth & Kinross Council announced Perth’s status as a leading tourist destination has been given a major boost after it was granted Coach Friendly Status this week (8 May).

Granted by The Confederation of Passenger Transport Scotland, the accreditation encourages more coach travel companies to visit an area, increasing visitor numbers, boosting the economy and helping to reduce congestion and improve air quality.

One coach carrying 50 people can prevent at least 20 individual car trips while carbon emissions from one modern coach is six times lower per passenger than private car travel.

The accreditation was presented by Phil Smith of CPT Scotland to Perth and Kinross Council leader Councillor Grant Laing outside Perth Museum.

Caroline Warburton of VisitScotland, Phil Smith of CPT Scotland, Grant Laing - Perth & Kinross Council Leader, and Councillor Eric Drysdale of Perth & Kinross Council ,  outside Perth Museum. 

Achieving Coach Friendly status is fantastic news for Perth and the wider region, and reflects the investment and great work that has been done to cater for coaches, part of the city’s commitment to welcoming group travel. The group travel market has an important part to play in Scotland’s sustainable tourism ambitions. Not only does it offer an alternative to travelling by car, but planned itineraries are an excellent way for visitors to explore the region. Caroline Warburton, Destination Development Director, VisitScotland

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More than half of international visitors use these kind of travel intermediaries to plan and book their holiday.

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Scotland’s tourism stars celebrated at Perthshire holiday park

MSP Murdo Fraser helped fly the flag for Scotland's tourism industry this week when he visited a popular Crieff holiday park during Scottish Tourism Month note-0.

Mr Fraser was at Braidhaugh Holiday Park which sits alongside the River Earn and takes a special pride in its work to help protect the area’s rich and varied wildlife.

The MSP, who represents the Mid Scotland and Fife region, was a guest of Largo Leisure which owns six highly regarded holiday parks in Scotland.

He was met by group operations director Alison Watson who took Mr Fraser on a tour of the park’s grounds with the company’s Steven Willett and Joseph Comrie.

On the itinerary was a secluded area of the park on which 14 new luxury holiday homes are being sited as part of the company’s continuing investment in its guest facilities and accommodation.

The 50-plus pitches in total on the park also include top-end glamping pods with fire-pits, plus facilities for campers and the owners of touring caravans and motorhomes.

There are also holiday homes to own, and which can be used for breaks and longer stays throughout the four seasons, and are popular with families from both sides of the Scottish border.

David Bellamy Conservation scheme

Alison Watson told Mr Fraser how Braidhaugh worked closely with the David Bellamy Conservation scheme to help sustain the many animal, bird and plant species in its grounds.

The park’s work includes the planting of native trees and hedgerows to provide wildlife habitats, and maintaining areas of wild flowers on which honey bees and butterflies can forage.

Mr Fraser, a former deputy leader of the Scottish Conservative party, was also shown the park’s five-star amenity block with power showers, and its popular Riverside Café.

Alison Watson said that she and the park’s team were delighted that their MSP was able to take time out to celebrate Scottish Tourism Month at Braidhaugh.

“Murdo Fraser clearly recognises the importance of tourism to rural Scotland, and is aware of the many challenges as well as opportunities faced by businesses such as ours,” she said.

“I know that many other businesses in the Crieff area benefit from the spending of our guests, and which in turn supports the jobs they provide – and we are very proud of this.

“Interest in the type of away-from-it-all holidays we provide is extremely strong, and we are grateful for the backing and encouragement of our MSP," added Alison.

Mr Fraser commented: “I thoroughly enjoyed my visit to Braidhaugh Holiday Park. Tourism is vital to the Perthshire and Scottish economy and it is important that is supported.

“Braidhaugh Holiday Park plays a role in helping our tourism industry in Perthshire,” he added.

Scottish Tourism Month is designed to put the spotlight on the country’s hospitality and tourism industries, and the way in which they sustain rural economies.

Mr Fraser paid his visit to the park during March’s Scottish Tourism Month which is supported by the British Holiday & Home Parks Association of which Braidhaugh is a member.

According to a recent independent economic survey, said Alison, the parks sector to which Braidhaugh belongs generates just over £991 million in visitor expenditure each year in Scotland, and supports almost 18,500 FTE jobs.

There is more information about Braidhaugh Holiday Park at www.largoleisure.co.uk , and the findings of the recent economic survey can be read at www.ukcca.org.uk

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9 Best Things to Do in Buenos Aires May 2024

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10 Best Places to Visit in Scotland in May 2024

Scotland is a land of breathtaking beauty, rich history, and captivating culture. In May, when the landscape is at its most vibrant, there are countless incredible places to visit. From iconic cities to charming towns, stunning natural wonders to historic castles, here is our guide to the 10 best places to visit in Scotland in May 2024.

As you plan your trip, remember that May is a popular time to visit Scotland, so it’s advisable to book your accommodations and tours in advance. The weather in May is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from 10 to 15 degrees Celsius. However, it’s always a good idea to pack layers of clothing as the weather can be unpredictable.

1. Edinburgh

No trip to Scotland would be complete without a visit to Edinburgh, the country’s captivating capital city. With its iconic castle, charming Old Town, and vibrant cultural scene, Edinburgh offers an unforgettable experience. In May, the city comes alive with the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the world’s largest annual arts festival, which features everything from theater to comedy to music and more.

2. The Isle of Skye

The Isle of Skye is a mystical island off the west coast of Scotland, renowned for its stunning landscapes and dramatic scenery. In May, the island is at its most beautiful, with vibrant wildflowers blooming and the air filled with the sound of birdsong. From the jagged peaks of the Cuillin Mountains to the serene beauty of the Quiraing, the Isle of Skye offers endless opportunities for exploration and adventure.

3. Loch Lomond

Loch Lomond is the largest lake in Scotland, and its stunning beauty has inspired poets and artists for centuries. Surrounded by rolling hills and majestic mountains, Loch Lomond offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, cycling, sailing, and fishing. In May, the loch is particularly beautiful, with the water sparkling in the sunlight and the surrounding landscape bursting with color.

Glencoe is one of the most dramatic and picturesque glens in Scotland. Its rugged mountains, cascading waterfalls, and deep lochs create a landscape that is both awe-inspiring and unforgettable. In May, the glen is alive with the sound of running water and the vibrant colors of wildflowers, making it an ideal destination for hiking and nature lovers.

5. The North Coast 500

The North Coast 500 is a legendary road trip that takes you along the breathtaking coastline of northern Scotland. Spanning over 500 miles, the route passes through stunning landscapes, including sandy beaches, rugged cliffs, and enchanting villages. In May, the weather is generally mild, making it an ideal time to experience the beauty of the North Coast 500.

6. Perthshire

Perthshire is a beautiful region in central Scotland, known for its rolling hills, picturesque villages, and historic castles. In May, Perthshire is at its most beautiful, with the countryside bursting into bloom and the air filled with the scent of wildflowers. From the elegant Scone Palace to the stunning Gleneagles Hotel, Perthshire offers a wide range of attractions for visitors of all ages.

7. Aberdeen

Aberdeen is a vibrant city on the northeast coast of Scotland, known as the “Granite City” for its impressive granite architecture. In May, Aberdeen comes alive with a variety of events and festivals, including the Aberdeen International Youth Festival and the Aberdeen Jazz Festival. The city also offers excellent shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, making it a great destination for a city break.

8. The Cairngorms National Park

The Cairngorms National Park is the largest national park in the UK, and its stunning landscapes offer a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, climbing, skiing, and wildlife watching. In May, the park is particularly beautiful, with the heather-clad mountains blooming in purple and the rivers and lochs teeming with wildlife. The Cairngorms National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

9. The Hebrides

The Hebrides is a group of islands off the west coast of Scotland, known for their unspoiled beauty and rich Gaelic culture. In May, the Hebrides are at their most vibrant, with the islands awash in wildflowers and the air filled with the sound of birdsong. From the rugged beauty of the Isle of Lewis to the tranquil charm of the Isle of Barra, the Hebrides offer an unforgettable escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

10. Stirling

Stirling is a historic city in central Scotland, dominated by the imposing Stirling Castle. In May, Stirling comes alive with the annual Stirling Highland Games, a vibrant celebration of Scottish culture and heritage. The city also offers excellent shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, making it a great destination for a day trip or a longer stay.

At WyandotteDaily, we love sharing information about travel destinations around the world, inspiring your next adventure.

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Botched Brian Low murder scene in Aberfeldy ‘not typical’ of Scotland’s rural police units, says top cop

• Graham Mann , Crime Reporter
• Published : 13:20, 13 May 2024
• Updated : 13:21, 13 May 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

JO Farrell insists the botched handling of the probe into the death of Brian Low isn’t typical of cops who operate in Scotland’s rural areas.

Cops had initially deemed the 65-year-old’s death on Saturday February 17 on the outskirts of Aberfeldy, Perthshire, as non-suspicious.

But days later they had to return to the crime scene when pathologists discovered he’d been blasted to death by a shotgun.

The stunning revelation sparked ongoing investigations by the Police Standards Department and Police Investigation and Review Commissioner.

Both probes are running alongside the hunt for the mystery killer with no motive yet established.

Ms Farrell insisted the apparent failure to notice Mr Low had been murdered was not typical.

MORE ON BRIAN LOW MURDER

Inside mystery murder case that's rocked sleepy Scots town

Cops admit they have no suspects two months on from shotgun murder mystery

The Chief Constable, 55, said: “It is not a response that typifies Police Scotland and its ability and the expertise and professionalism of our officers.

“It’s subject of an investigation by the independent watchdog of policing so it’s not something I can talk about in detail or speculate about unfortunately.”

Asked if she had made contact with Mr Low’s family, she said: “I haven’t spoken to them.

“They are being supported by our family liaison officers and the investigation into the murder is ongoing.”

Most read in The Scottish Sun

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We told how cops probing the shooting have yet to make a breakthrough more than two month s on.

Detectives revealed they have searched 500 buildings and watched 2,400 hours of CCTV footage.

But the massive manhunt has drawn a blank - amid intense pressure after officers initially wrongly said he had died of natural causes.

We first revealed police had launched a murder probe when they issued an appeal for witnesses through the media on February 27 - ten days after the killing.

They later said at a tense press conference the initial assessment at the scene didn’t reveal anything suspicious.

It was only later after a post mortem that red flags were raised, sparking a rush back to the crime scene which had remained open to the public for days on end.

Detective Superintendent Lorna Ferguson later said 31 officers are working on the investigation - carrying out inquiries at 478 homes and analysing information from around 800 questionnaires.

In a fresh plea for information, she said: "We are committed to tracing the person responsible and have detectives from our Major Investigations Teams across the country assisting local officers.

"We understand the significant impact this has had on the local community and thank everyone for their help so far.

"I am confident that key information in this investigation lies within the local community. Somebody knows something.

Read more on the Scottish Sun

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"Even if you feel the information you hold is not important, we still ask you to contact us. It could be crucial.”

Police Scotland has also set up a Major Incident Public Portal which can be accessed  online .

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Electrical Engineering 2024 Graduate Programme

• Closing at: Jun 9 2024 at 23:55 BST

Start Date: 23 September 2024 

Base Locations: Scotland, England & ROI

Salary:  £33,000 / €35,500 per annum + a range of other benefits to support your family, finances, and wellbeing. 

Working Pattern:   Permanent | Full Time |  Flexible First  options available 

Degree Disciplines: Electrical / Electronic / Electrical Power, or Power Systems Engineering Degree

What is the Role?

Upon joining SSE as an Electrical Engineering Graduate, you'll be leading the way in contributing to an improved energy landscape for future generations.

You will benefit from exposure and real life experience, alongside first-class guidance to develop your technical skills and our Graduate Programme will provide the supportive, yet challenging, environment to allow you to excel to reach your full potential. In doing so, this will provide the foundation for you to become our next technical, experienced, and driven future leaders - vital on our journey towards net zero. 

It is important you read about our different business areas using the links below as we will ask you to select a preference when you reach the application form. This will help us to support your career ambitions and understand your preferences. 

You may be interested in pursing a role within our SSEN Distribution business , where you will contribute to some exciting projects where you'll be at the forefront of developing, improving, and maintaining our network. You'll be involved in projects and activities that help us ensure our network is not only running effectively, but also is considering innovative new technologies and efficient ways of providing energy to all customers. You can read more about the Graduate Programme here .

Perhaps our Thermal business captures your attention, where you will experience the opportunity to spend time across the wider Thermal business, including Project Engineering, Operations, Project Delivery and Asset Management. You can learn more about the Thermal Engineering Graduate programme here .

Our Renewables business is a leading developer and operator of renewable energy generation. Joining our Renewables business, you could have exposure and the opportunity to work in onshore and offshore wind, hydro, or innovative technologies such as hydrogen and battery storage. If this captures your interest, you can find out more about the programme here .

What do I need to join?

You’ll have a minimum of a 2:2 BEng in Electrical / Electronic / Electrical Power, or Power Systems Engineering Degree. Please note, you must be willing and able to independently relocate to the role location prior to the start of the programme.

At SSE we're proud to celebrate difference. We all have different skills, experience and backgrounds and we strive to have a friendly and inclusive culture where you can be yourself. Safety is at the heart of everything we do at SSE, and you should show alignment with our core values and have a genuine passion and interest in the energy sector.  

Throughout our recruitment process, we are looking for individuals who can demonstrate the ability to; decide and initiate action, work with people, relate and network, adapt and respond to change, create and innovate, learn and research, adhere to principles and values, and show signs of entrepreneurial and commercial thinking. 

What’s in it for you? 

Our programmes are accredited by the IET, ICE and IMechE and offer a route to Professional Registration.

You'll also receive an excellent package with 34 days holiday entitlement, enhanced maternity/paternity leave, discounted healthcare, salary sacrifice car leasing and much more, click here to view our full benefits package.

We've listened to our previous graduates, and understand the importance of maintaining a work-life balance. When you join us, you can benefit from our  Flexible First  approach, and this will be unique to your own circumstances. This might mean a hybrid work pattern, or flexibility across the working week, but between you and your manager, you will work together to find the most suitable approach. 

You will also have the choice to be involved in our Education and Employability outreach events, as well as a range of volunteering opportunities to help inspire the next generation of engineers. In addition to this, some of our existing graduates are involved in the recruitment process which we find incredibly rewarding!

We kindly ask that all applications should be submitted online.

As an equal opportunity employer we actively encourage applicants from all protected characteristics and commit to providing any reasonable adjustments required during the application, assessment and upon joining SSE. If you would like to discuss any working differently requirements or adjustments you may require throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact [email protected] . If you would prefer a call to discuss adjustments let us know by email and we can arrange a call for a time that suits you. You can visit  ‘Inclusion & Diversity at SSE’  to find out more about our commitments to being an inclusive employer.

Before commencing employment with SSE, you'll be required to fully complete our pre-employment screening process consisting of a basic criminal records and credit check. 

Please note, due to recent immigration rule changes to the Skilled Worker route, this role falls below the minimum “New Entrant” salary threshold and therefore does not meet the requirements to allow for sponsorship.

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• Sharesave Scheme
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• Option to purchase up to 10 days holiday
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