A Roadtrip Through Highland Perthshire
Written by Graeme Johncock
When it comes to spending a day in Highland Perthshire, you’re spoilt for choice! While people are often in a rush to head up the main road towards Inverness, I prefer to take my time and explore some of the scenery and history in this special part of Scotland. You might be surprised at what you find down a few of those side roads!
Birnam Oak
On the banks of the River Tay, often overlooked for it’s larger neighbour Dunkeld, there’s one thing very special about Birnam. A short walk from the main road takes you to the historic Birnam Oak. This gnarled tree is around 600 years old, with a hollow trunk to hide in...
Discover Dunkeld Cathedral
Dunkeld isn’t a large town, but it’s got a lot to offer. Aside from the shops, eateries and scenery, it’s Dunkeld Cathedral that draws my attention. One of the oldest and most historic churches in Scotland, there’s an added surprise hidden inside. Right at the back of the church, behind...
Killiecrankie Visitor Centre
This area of Perthshire is often called “Big Tree Country” and there are plenty of woodlands perfect for a wander. Killiecrankie is one of my highlights, with the River Garry tumbling through the pass and an epic story to go with it. In 1689, an outnumbered Jacobite army won a...
Blair Castle
The ancestral home of the Dukes of Atholl and Clan Murray, Blair Castle is a shining white guardian of this crucial route through the Highlands. The oldest part of the castle dates all the way back to the 13th century and there are centuries of history to uncover as you...
Lunch at House of Bruar
The House of Bruar is famous as a luxury mall, but aside from the shopping, there’s a great restaurant for lunches. Local produce goes into delicious food with an especially good carvery on Sundays.
Queen’s View
For sweeping vistas, there aren’t many that can compete with Queen’s View – made famous by Queen Victoria although often claimed to be named after one of Robert the Bruce’s wives. Looking out along the length of Loch Tummel, the pointed summit of Schiehallion can be seen clearly.
The Scottish Crannog Centre
A beautiful drive takes you to a fascinating reconstruction on the banks of Loch Tay. A visit to the Scottish Crannog Centre lets you wander through an Iron Age village, learning all about the life, traditions and crafts of Scotland’s ancient people. Crannogs were wooden roundhouses built either on stilts...
St Mary’s Grandtully
St Mary’s at Grandtully is one of my favourite hidden gems in all of Scotland. As you first approach, the building looks like an old cow byre, but step through the door and you’re met with something extraordinary. This old chapel dates back to the early 1500s, but it’s the...
Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier
A sweet treat is the perfect way to end the day and the Highland Chocolatier more than has that covered. Frequent winners of “World’s Best Truffle”, the selection of flavours is amazing. Aside from those, my personal favourite is the Dark Chocolate Frozen Ganache. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed!
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