Perfect Perthshire
The country’s most renowned romantic novelist, Sir Walter Scott, declared it ‘the fairest portion of the northern kingdom’ but Perthshire is often overlooked as a Scottish travel destination. Hood took a turn off the A9 to fall in love with one of Scotland’s most beautiful regions.
From lush and verdant rolling glens, forests, woodlands and moors to the mountainous Schiehallion and Ben Lawers, Perth and Kinross is also home to 47 lochs and 16 rivers creating the most breathtaking scenery from almost every viewpoint. The area’s incredible landscape means it plays host to Scotland's most iconic species including; the highland cow, majestic red deer stag, red squirrel, pine marten, and soaring osprey and perhaps if you are very lucky, a golden eagle.
It's as picturesque as can be, with plenty of outdoor activities to keep you entertained all summer long. Pop on a life jacket and try kayaking on Loch of Clunie (outdoorexplore.co.uk) located between Dunkeld and Blairgowrie. The small, still loch is perfect for beginners and wildlife fans alike. More brave of heart? How about white water rafting, canyoning or trying out the latest water sport trend of river bugging where you sit in a one-person craft that looks like an inflatable armchair and hurl yourself down the River Tummel (rafting.co.uk).
Had your fill of adrenaline? Let us share the most luxurious places to lay your head…
Bestowed its name by Queen Victoria (no less) this small yet totally charming hotel nestles in Comrie, near Crieff, amidst the splendour of Strathearn and the Southern Scottish Highlands. Its current owners’ aim of creating ‘a beautiful, intimate, small hotel in Scotland’ has been achieved making this the perfect choice for a special break away. Each of the 11 bedrooms is cosily decorated in soft hues, filled with rich fabrics and antiques to provide a restful haven.
For those truly wishing to switch off from the modern world, consider Guardswell Farm your sanctuary. Found on a 150-acre grassland idyllically nestled between Abernyte and Kinnard, the farm has a choice of self-catering options, from romantic cabins for two, to a rustic-chic farmhouse that can sleep 10. There’s no wifi on-site, so instead bring with you books to read by candlelight, and whisky to toast with your nearest and dearest into the wee hours.
Set beneath the Ochil Hills, in the heart of Perthshire, Gleneagles has been the must-go destination for travellers for nearly a century. Beginning its life in the glamorous age of travel when guests arrived in great style at Gleneagles’ very own train station, the 850-acre estate epitomises the natural beauty for which Scotland is famed. With its Glorious Playground of country pursuits and activities, the resort has entertainment for all the family.
This elegantly presented self-catering bolt hole offers a perfectly luxurious retreat in Crieff. Equipped with a roll-top bath, sauna and all the five-star mod cons you could ever need, it’s the ever-changing backdrop of Torlum Mountain and views out towards the Trossachs National Park that are the main attraction here.
Killiecrankie House, near Blair Atholl, is a fine dining restaurant first, serving a ground-breaking tasting menu of innovative Scottish cuisine that celebrates the cultural and gastronomic bounty of the country. But the five beautifully designed bedrooms for those looking to stay the night are no lacklustre add-on. All rooms have four-poster beds, freestanding baths, and walk-in showers – a masterpiece in chic, modern Scottish hospitality.
Situated in the historic, must-visit village of Dunkeld, the Atholl Arms is the perfect location for those looking to explore the lochs and walks of the area. Relax on the terrace and partake in a tipple or two on the bank of the River Tay. Comfy beds, hearty breakfasts and warm hospitality give this small hotel timeless appeal.
Be sure to stop by Redwood Wines for a cheese or charcuterie board and a glass of something refreshing, we happily spent a few hours making our way through the extensive and well considered wine list.
Leave room for a sweet treat though, as Dunkeld is also home to the beautiful Aran Bakery.
The Grandtully Hotel by Ballintaggart
A chic outpost run by the same family who own Ballintaggart Farm – a cookery school with rooms a few miles off the beaten path – The Grandtully is certainly deserving of its reputation. Perfectly positioned between picturesque Pitlochry and the market town of Aberfeldy, this stylish, cosy and comfortable hotel boasts rooms as beautiful as the food you’ll find on its plates.