There is no shortage of things to do in Perthshire. Experience the unspoilt character, charm and warm hospitality of this small market town. Surrounded by the mountains and glorious landscapes of Highland Perthshire, Aberfeldy nestles in a bend of the River Tay some 30 miles north of Perth. The town and surrounding rural communities have a thriving yet gentle pace far removed from the noise and stress of the outside world. As well as supermarkets the town offers a pleasing variety of independent shops each with an individual character where traditional service still prevails. They provide specialist foodstuffs, clothes shoes, books and gifts and in addition there are numerous restaurants, hotels, cafes, bars and bistros. Folk nights and Scottish ceilidhs ("kay-lees") are regular features in local bars. For the gourmet, there are numerous good quality country house hotels and restaurants, all within a 15-20 minute drive from Aberfeldy.
Visitors enjoy Highland Perthshire in summer when it has a lush verdant countryside but it also holds a special special attraction in our woodlands in spring, autumn and winter i.e. the blazing red and gold leaves of October, or the delicate web of frost covered branches in January. Highland Perthshire has some of the most remarkable trees, woodlands and country gardens in Europe and is stunning at any time of year. During winter you can't beat an early morning walk through the crisp frost covered woodlands of the Birks of Aberfeldy or an atmospheric stroll through mist enshrouded trees of the Hermitage at Dunkeld.
Exploring on foot or bike is a great way to get closer to our native birds, mammals and wildflowers. It’s easy to stop and smell the bluebells, watch a butterfly or listen to the wistful song of a willow warbler. Such encounters with wildlife will leave you feeling much more alive. Another way to experience the extent nature’s bounty is to climb aboard an award winning land rover safari for an exclusive adventure-experience of secret Scotland at heights of nearly 3000 feet with the chance of seeing eagle, deer, arctic hare, red grouse and much more. You can also enjoy heart warming strong local refreshments from your kilted guide as you marvel at the scenery in a land steeped in history, legend and folklore. For lovers of such traditional fayre, Aberfeldy offers Dewar's World of Whisky www.dewarswow.com which celebrates a courageous spirit. Here a series of themed presentation areas tells the Dewar's Story and takes you back in time to learn the secrets of the fine blended whisky.
Angling around Aberfeldy is renowned as is its golf. Fishermen can obtain permits for fishing on the River Tay and for stocked moorland lochs. Golfers can chose from challenging 18 holes around the magnificent Taymouth Castle, the new 18 hole layout at Aberfeldy with its unique all plastic bridge crossing the Tay or the attractive 9 holes at Kenmore and Strathtay. Within a half-hour drive there are a further 5 splendid 18-hole golf courses; at Pitlochry, Crieff, Killin, Dunkeld and Blairgowrie (Rosemount). St. Andrews is one hour away via Dundee. Other local amenities in Aberfeldy include all weather tennis courts, putting, and a bowling green, children's play area, a skate board park, and indoor recreation centre with a 25m pool, snooker, squash, fitness suite, sauna and spa pool. High adrenaline activities are not far away however and two centres on Loch Tay offer a wide selection of water sports including canoeing, white water rafting, windsurfing and water skiing. River running is virtually as old as civilization itself, but rafting and kayaking as recreational activities are relatively new. A river journey is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the rural areas and natural environments of any country.
The district around Aberfeldy is rich in natural heritage and folklore, typified by the picturesque thatched cottages of Fortingall where it is rumoured that Pontius Pilate was born and here in the churchyard a 3000-year-old yew tree is believed to be Europe's oldest living thing. Close by is Glen Lyon the longest enclosed glen in Scotland stretching some 34 miles in length, where guided nature walks are available.
Aberfeldy has an abundance of big trees and green heritage. Wonderful walks are plentiful, ranging from the woodland glade and cascading waterfalls of the Birks of Aberfeldy, through forest walks at Weem and Drummond Hill, to serious high level walking, within many munroes around Glen Lyon and the hills of Breadalbane. Nearby the mighty Ben Lawers, Perthshire's highest and most fascinating mountain stands 3984ft. tall. The National Trust now protects the mountain that is home to possibly the finest selection of Alpine flowers. Views from the summit are incredible as it overlooks Loch Tay, which is some 14 miles long. Today it is hard to believe that ancient settlers once lived on Loch Tay on their very own man made islands or crannogs. Your imagination is brought to life at the Scottish Crannog Centre; a wonderfully reconstructed crannog which paints a fascinating picture of early Iron Age life.
Just outside Aberfeldy close to Weem lies historic Castle Menzies. Two gardens are open to the public, one nearby at Bolfracks, noted for its flowering bulbs and stream garden, and another at Cluny House which is one of Scotland's best woodland gardens. Two pony trekking centres are nearby and mountain bike hire is available locally. The three main Scottish ski resorts are each within one hours drive. Pitlochry (only 15 miles) boasts the famous Festival Theatre producing a wide range of plays during the summer season.
Dunkeld (17 miles) offers good shopping, restaurants and an historic cathedral; nearby the Loch of the Lowes provides habitats for a great variety of wildlife including ospreys.
Aberfeldy Gallery established in 1981 as a showcase for the work of local artists and craftsmen. Since that time the Gallery has become well known for the high quality of artwork on display and artists from all over the country are now regular exhibitors. Increasing demands for the paintings, sculptures and pottery ensures a steady turnover of work and a constantly changing exhibition. The Gallery concentrates on original artwork and shows paintings of both a traditional and contemporary nature, oil paintings, photography and new items of pottery. There is therefore something for everyone.
The district around Aberfeldy is rich in natural heritage and folklore, typified by the thatched cottages of Fortingall. Look out for the 3000-year-old yew tree in the churchyard- the oldest piece of growing vegetation in Europe. The pre-reformation church was pulled down in 1901 and totally rebuilt. Inside the church is a rare Celtic bell, characterised by its lack of a clapper. And would have been rung by being struck from the outside. In 1886, Sir Donald Currie commissioned the architect James Maclaren to rebuild the village creating a village of great beauty and architectural interest. Here you are also at the mouth of Glen Lyon, the longest enclosed glen in Scotland. Some of Perthshire's finest scenery can be captured here.
Near the top of the glen, at Bridge of Balgie stands the mighty Ben Lawers, Perthshire's highest and most fascinating mountain, home to a world-beating selection of alpine flowers. The magnificent mountain overlooks Scotland's largest loch, Loch Tay, on whose eastern shores lies the picturesque village of Kenmore.
Associated Web Sites:
Dewar's World of Whisky
Aberfeldy Water Mill
Golfers Paradise
Taymouth Castle
Indoor Recreation Centre
High adrenaline activities
Menzies Castle
Cluny House
Fortingall
Glen Lyon
The Birks of Aberfeldy
Ben Lawers
Loch Tay
Scottish Crannog Centre
Pitlochry Festival Theatre
Loch of the Lowes
Below are some of the deals at visitor attractions and outdoor activities that Aberfeldy Cottages have negotiated on your behalf:
The Crannog, Kenmore
2 for 1 on event days www.crannog.co.uk
The Crannog is a type of ancient loch dwelling found throughout Scotland and Ireland dating from 5,000 years ago, built out in the water as defensive homesteads and represented symbols of power and wealth. The Scottish Crannog Centre at Kenmore features a unique reconstruction of an early Iron Age loch dwelling.
The Scottish Crannog Centre, Kenmore, Loch Tay, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2HY 01887 830583 info@crannog.co.uk
Perthshire Paintball www.perthshirepaintball.com
10% Discount on gold panning.
If you are looking for an exciting challenge and an exhilarating and adrenalin packed day filled with activities, Perthshire paintball is a fantastic facility located near Aberfeldy (note paint balling not suitable for children or families).
Contact: Jon Wheeler, Perthshire Paintball Ltd 33 Tayside Crescent, Aberfeldy, PH15 2AR 01887 829 407 info@perthshirepaintball.com
Dewars World Of Whisky www.dewarswow.com
Two for the Price of One
Visitors can explore one of the greatest brands of Scotch whisky ever created in an innovative and interactive five star exhibition that educates and entertains. The experience includes a guided distillery tour where you can see the Aberfeldy spirit being produced and afterwards, the chance to taste a selection of whiskies in the nosing and tasting bar. Outside the adventure continues with a nature trail that is also home to the red squirrel. Relax in the centre's coffee shop and enjoy delicious home baking whilst enjoying the spectacular scenery. Emerse yourself in Scotland’s culture and heritage at
Dewar’s World of Whisky, Aberfeldy Distillery, Aberfeldy, PH15 2EB. 01887 822010 Fax 822012 worldofwhisky@dewars.com
National Kayak School, Aberfeldy www.nationalkayakschool.com
Mid week discounts available
Look forward to a great day white water kayaking, sea kayaking, inland touring and inflatable kayaks with staff who are chosen for their ability to understand you, entertain you, teach you and pass on their overwhelming enthusiasm for kayaking and the great outdoors.
National Kayak School, Wade House, Weem, Perthshire, PH15 2LD 01887 820498 info@nationalkayakschool.com
Splash White Water Rafting www.rafting.co.uk
1 free per 4 for rafting (not Saturday)
This half-day trip is about six miles in distance, and starts from Aberfeldy. The river winds along the Tay valley, through rolling hills and stunning scenery. This is an area with a diverse wildlife, which is best seen from the river.
Canyoning - Kids go free with 2 paying adults (Thurs only…. April to Oct)
This sport is growing at a massive rate as more and more people enjoy the wonders of exploring gentle gorges to full on adventure canyons.
Splash White Water Rafting, Dunkeld Road, Aberfeldy, PH15 2AQ 01887 829706 Fax 01889 820303 (0)7793 754853 info@rafting.co.uk
Killin Outdoor www.killinoutdoor.co.uk
Canadian canoe and mountain bike hire 4 hours for the price of 2 (to be pre booked)
Canoeing, mountain biking, skiing and hill walking equipment for hire in the village of Killin. Local route advice and activity information is available from the staff that all have a good local knowledge and participate in the activities.
Killin Outdoor Centre and Mountain Shop 01567 820 116 shop@killinoutdoor.co.uk
Freespirits, Aberfeldy www.freespirits-online.co.uk
£5 of all activities, including abseiling, canyoning, cliff jumping, and rafting.
Set your spirit of adventure free with one of Free Spirits white water rafting excursions or take up the challenge of canyoning, cliff jumping, abseiling and mountain biking. Freespirits, The Riverside Inn, Grandtully, by Aberfeldy, PH15 0PL 0845 6444755 contact@freespirits-online.co.uk
Highland Off Road, Dunkeld www.highlandoffroad.com
10% discount
Experience the exhilaration, fresh air and adventure of exploring some of Perthshire's most beautiful scenery from a quad bike. Highland Off Road offer hourly treks through the forests of the 280-acre estate of Dunkeld House Hotel.
Highland Offroad, The Steading, Dunkeld House Hotel, Dunkeld,
PH8 0HX, 01350 728700, Fax 728848 info@highlandoffroad.co.uk
Highland Adventure Safaris www.highlandadventuresafaris.co.uk
10% Discount
These award winning Land Rover Safaris and are a unique and exciting way to experience the freedom, challenge and exhilaration of the scenic and fascinating environment around Aberfeldy and a chance to actually pan for real Gold and Gem stones at the safari lodge.
Highland Adventure Safaris, Drumdewan, Aberfeldy, PH15 2JQ. Tel/fax 01887 820071 info@highlandadventuresafaris.co.uk
Ardeonaig Outdoor Centre, by Killin. www.ardeonaig.org
A free place per family of four on sailing, ropes adventure course, kayaking, crate climbing, gorge exploring, open canoeing, orienteering, team challenges, high ropes course plus free archery with every ropes course.
Qualified instructors ensure safety and personal achievement.
Abernethy Trust, Ardeonaig, By Killin, FK21 8SY, 01567 820 523 fax 820 955
AT@ardeonaig.org
Scottish Quads, Strathbraan, Dunkeld www.scottishquads.co.uk
10% Discount on all activities
Scottish Quads provide quad bike sessions, archery, clay pigeon shooting and 4x4 off-road driving.
Scottish Quads, Milton Farm, Amulree, Dunkeld PH8 0EB 0845 260 1745 Fax: 0845 260 1746 Mob: 07702 235078 ruaridh@scottishquads.co.uk or info@scottishquads.co.uk
Nae Limits, Ballinluig www.naelimits.co.uk
10% Discount on all activities
An adventure experience which is fun, safe and pushes your own personal boundaries including cliff jumping, white water rafting, duckie trips, paintballing, canyoning, river bugs, abseiling/rap running, quad biking, clay pigeon shooting, sphere-ing.
Nae Limits, Unit 1,Ballinluig, PH9 0LG 08450 178177 info@naelimits.co.uk
Girvans of Aberfeldy www.girvans.net
10% off MOUNTAIN BIKE RENTAL: Fancy exploring the lovely countryside surrounding Aberfeldy? Why not do it by Mountain Bike. We have 10 Mountain Bikes by Giant. Explore and enjoy the beauty of Loch Tay or cycle up the Crieff road to Griffin Forestry park, once there you can take a variety of routes back to Aberfeldy take a picnic and enjoy our lovely area.
Girvans of Aberfeldy Dunkeld Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2AF 01887 820254 mailto:info@girvans.co.uk or mailto:blair@girvans.net
Aberfeldy & Perthshire Sites of interest
Aberfeldy Gallery Range of art work by Scottish artists
Aberfeldy Golf Course In a scenic Perthshire location
Aberfeldy Weather - A jaunty look at local weather
Big Tree Country - Perthshire for forests and walks
Country Comfort Ladies & gents apparel
Crieff Highland Games One of Scotland's Premier Games
Drummond Trout Farm Try you hand at fishing
fishingnet.com Fishing in Perthshire, trout & salmon
Highland Adventure Safaris Aberfeldy based activities
Aberfeldy.co.uk
Mountain Innovations Walking and climbing Scotland
Perthshire Tourist Board Local TB Site
Perthshire-Scotland.co.uk Aberfeldy, Pitlochry, Perth
Pinocchio's of Comrie - Traditional wooden toys & games
Pitlochry Festival Theatre A unique cultural experience
Safe Journeys Rambling Holidays in Scotland and Nepal
Scottish Crannog Centre Reconstructed lochside dwelling
Strathearn & West Perthshire Local Guide to Crieff area
The House of Menzies Scottish fayre & New World wines
Virtual Birks of Aberfeldy Trip round beautiful nature trail
Garth House, Aberfeldy - Self Catering Apartments
Glassie Farm Bunkhouse - Affordable accommodation.
