Explore Nature

Pitlochry

Rising to 2,757 ft (841m) above Pitlochry, Ben Vrackie (or the “Speckled Mountain”) is a gorgeous mountain and a must-do for mountaineers visiting Perthshire. This Corbett is a moderate to challenging walk over a well-maintained path, with steeper sections towards the end which might be difficult for beginners, but the effort is more than repaid with sweeping views across the highland.

Before setting off, The Bakery Pitlochry is ideal for stocking up on fresh baked goods, sandwiches and sweet treats for the journey.  Afterwards, McKays Hotel, Bar and Restaurant offers a menu full of Scottish pub classics to satisfy your post-hike hunger.

If you’re planning a stay in Pitlochry, Milton of Fonab caravan park is the place to be. It's about a 20-minute walk from the town centre and provides a relaxed base, with both touring pitches and static caravan options alongside useful on-site facilities.

Blairgowrie

The Cateran Ecomuseum is the museum without walls – set in the beautiful and dramatic countryside, all the sites are outside!

Located on the 500-million-year-old Highland Boundary Fault – the natural divide between Highlands and Lowlands – it reveals a landscape rich in human history, with traces of settlement stretching back to the Neolithic period. Pre-designed routes guide you through glens and farmland, uncovering stories woven in the hills, from Pictish stones and glacial landscapes to Victorian mills and legendary tales of King Arthur and Fionn mac Cumhaill.

Before taking to the trail, head into Blairgowrie and put together a picnic. Prime spots for picnic classics include the Cornerstone Deli, Greens of Blairgowrie, Ewarts Butchers, Taystful, and Gowrie Bakers, all of which use local produce.  

After a day on the trail, Glenshee Glamping provides a unique place to unwind, with luxury pods, huts and cabins — some even featuring hot tubs for tired walking legs.

Kinross

The Loch Leven Heritage Trail is a 21km (13-mile) circular route that showcases the natural beauty and wildlife of Kinross. As a National Nature Reserve protected by the RSPB, Loch Leven is home to rare plants, insects and thousands of breeding and migrating birds throughout the year – including the UK’s largest nesting duck colony.

The largely flat route is ideal for cycling, with bikes available to hire from the family-run Sinclair Cycles at Loch Leven’s Larder, making it suitable for all abilities.

Along the trail, you’ll spot the island-based Loch Leven Castle, where Mary, Queen of Scots was imprisoned in 1567–68. Boat trips to the castle run regularly throughout the day.

After exploring, Loch Leven’s Larder is the perfect place to refuel. The magical Food Hall shines a spotlight on local produce and farm-fresh foods, with mouth-watering pastries, cheeses, breads and salads to tempt your taste buds.

Treat yourself with a stay at Maycroft Retreat’s two luxury glamping pods, complete with hot tubs, wellness facilities and even afternoon tea deliveries for a peaceful countryside escape.

Crieff

Ben Chonzie, the highest peak in the moorlands north of Crieff, is often considered one of the more accessible Munros for beginners. Standing at 3,054 ft (931m), the summit rewards walkers with sweeping views across the Ben Lawers range, the hills of Atholl, Loch Turret and beyond. Alternative trails allow experienced mountaineers to add length and difficulty to their hike.

What’s better than pizza after a long day walking? Delivino in Crieff is the perfect place to unwind, serving Mediterranean-inspired dishes, authentic Italian pizzas and carefully selected wines.

For an overnight stay immersed in the countryside, Comrie Croft offers a range of unique accommodation, from eco-lodges and Nordic Kata tents to traditional camping and campervans. 

Perth

Overlooking the city of Perth, Kinnoull Hill is the tallest of the five hills within Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park. A network of paths suitable for all abilities winds through woodland of oak, beech, Scots pine and spruce before reaching the 728 ft (222m) summit, where panoramic views across Perthshire await. For an even more scenic approach, begin the walk from the railway bridge over the River Tay.

At the summit you’ll also find a striking 19th-century folly perched dramatically on the cliff edge, inspired by the watchtowers of Germany’s Rhineland.

Back in Perth, the city centre offers a wide variety of restaurants serving flavours from around the world, with options to suit every taste and dietary requirement. Use our city centre restaurant blogs to help you choose the best place for you!

For an overnight stay close to nature, the campsite at Scone Palace provides a peaceful setting within the historic grounds of Scotland’s ancient crowning place. Surrounded by trees and wildlife, the site caters for tents, caravans and motorhomes, with spacious pitches and facilities for a range of budgets.

Aberfeldy

Step outside your comfort zone and experience the thrill of white-water rafting in Aberfeldy, where expert guides lead you along a six-mile stretch of the River Tay from Aberfeldy to Grandtully. A mix of calmer waters and exciting rapids - including the famous Grandtully rapids - makes the adventure suitable for both beginners and experienced rafters.

For a gentler pace on the water, introductory sessions in canoeing, kayaking and paddleboarding are also available on nearby lochs, with expert guidance provided throughout.

After an active day outdoors, The Three Lemons is a popular spot to refuel, serving favourites such as fish and chips, burgers and pizzas alongside a selection of wines, with takeaway options also available.

For a peaceful stay in the countryside, Errichel Farm offers secluded cottage accommodation with sweeping views across the Tay Valley and the distant Grampian Mountains, the perfect place to relax and unwind.