25 things to do in Perthshire

Perthshire, located in the heart of Scotland, is a region that boasts an incredible blend of history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty. Known as the “Big County” due to its vast size, it offers visitors a plethora of activities and sights ranging from serene lochs and towering mountains to historic castles and vibrant cultural festivals. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat in nature, Perthshire has something special for everyone. This guide aims to help you discover the best things to do in this stunning part of Scotland.

Explore Historic Castles

Perthshire is home to some of Scotland’s most beautiful and historically significant castles. Blair Castle, with its white turrets standing proudly against the green landscape, offers a glimpse into Scottish history dating back 700 years. The castle’s gardens and grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll. Another must-visit is Scone Palace, once the crowning place of Scottish kings. Its lush gardens and unique collection of artifacts make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts.

Discover Serene Lochs

The region is dotted with picturesque lochs that offer breathtaking views and tranquil settings for relaxation or activities such as fishing and kayaking. Loch Tay is one of the largest lochs in Perthshire and provides opportunities for water sports and boat tours to see ancient crannogs—historic lake dwellings. Meanwhile, Loch Tummel is famed for its scenic beauty, especially during autumn when the surrounding forests display vibrant colors.

Hike Through Majestic Landscapes

For those who love the great outdoors, Perthshire’s landscapes provide ample opportunities for hiking and walking. The area around Ben Lawers National Nature Reserve offers trails with stunning views over Loch Tay and beyond. Schiehallion Mountain is another popular spot among hikers for its distinctive cone shape and panoramic vistas at the summit.

Visit Charming Towns

The towns of Perthshire are full of character and charm. Pitlochry is known for its Victorian architecture and as a gateway to the Highlands; it’s also home to the famous Salmon Ladder at Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre where visitors can watch salmon leap upstream. Aberfeldy boasts quaint shops, art galleries, and The Watermill—a bookshop housed in a beautifully restored mill that also serves as a café.

Enjoy Local Festivals

Perthshire’s calendar is packed with festivals celebrating everything from traditional Scottish music to contemporary arts. The Pitlochry Highland Games showcase Scottish athletic prowess alongside bagpipe competitions and Highland dancing. For literary enthusiasts, the Aberfeldy Festival brings together writers, musicians, and artists for performances in various venues around town.

Taste Whisky at Distilleries

No visit to Scotland would be complete without sampling its world-famous whisky. Perthshire hosts several distilleries where visitors can learn about whisky production and taste unique single malts directly from the source. Edradour Distillery stands out as one of Scotland’s smallest traditional distilleries offering intimate tours that delve into centuries-old whisky-making techniques.

Bike Along Scenic Trails

Cycling enthusiasts will find plenty of scenic routes crisscrossing Perthshire’s diverse landscapes—from gentle rides along riverbanks to challenging mountain bike trails through forests. The Cateran Trail offers particularly stunning scenery on its 64-mile circuit that takes riders through both lowland valleys and upland moors.

Golf on Historic Courses

Golf has been played in Perthshire since the 15th century, making it one of Scotland’s premier golfing destinations today with over 40 courses available throughout the county. Gleneagles Hotel’s King’s Course is renowned worldwide but there are many other hidden gems offering spectacular views alongside challenging play.

Things You Wouldn’t Want To Miss In Perthshire:

  • A walk through Big Tree Country – Explore some of Britain’s biggest trees in this network of woodland paths.
  • Tasting freshly smoked salmon from Dunkeld Smoked Salmon – A true taste of Scotland.
  • An evening at Pitlochry Festival Theatre – Known as ‘Scotland’s Theatre in the Hills’, offering an array of plays throughout the year.
  • The Enchanted Forest – An annual sound-and-light show held in Faskally Wood near Pitlochry that transforms it into an ethereal wonderland.
  • A drive along Queen’s View – Offering one of Scotland’s most iconic panoramas overlooking Loch Tummel.
  • A day trip to Drummond Castle Gardens – Renowned for their spectacular formal gardens which date back to the 17th century.
  • Fishing on River Tay or River Earn – Some of Europe’s best salmon fishing spots.
  • Skiing or snowboarding at Glenshee Ski Centre during winter months – For snow sports enthusiasts looking for adventure.

In conclusion, whether you’re drawn by its rich history, enchanted by its natural beauty or excited by outdoor adventures; Perthshire promises an unforgettable experience filled with moments worth cherishing forever.

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