Perthshire Travel Guide: Where to Go and What to See

Perthshire is often called “Big Tree Country”, and it is easy to see why. Woods spill down hillsides, rivers run clear over stones and the land rises steadily into the Highlands. For visitors, it offers something unusual: proper Scottish scenery without the long journeys needed to reach the far north or west. This Perthshire travel guide gives you a practical overview of the main areas, what to do in each and how to arrange a trip that does not feel rushed.

A note on detail: opening times, prices and seasonal arrangements change, so we have kept specifics general and marked where you should check current information.

Getting your bearings

Perthshire is a large area, broadly spanning lowland farmland in the south and east and Highland scenery in the north and west. The county town is Perth, and the main road and rail routes run north towards Inverness through places such as Dunkeld and Pitlochry.

It helps to think of three zones:

1. The Highland edge: Dunkeld, Birnam, Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and the glens that lead from them.
2. The central and western lochs: Loch Tay and the villages along it, plus Loch Earn and Crieff to the south.
3. The lowland and eastern area: Perth itself, Scone, Blairgowrie and Strathmore.

Most visitors who want a countryside break base themselves in the first two zones, then make day trips as the weather allows.

Dunkeld and Birnam

Dunkeld is a small, attractive town on the River Tay, known for its cathedral ruins, riverside walks and surrounding woodland. Across the river, Birnam has links to Shakespeare’s Macbeth and, separately, to Beatrix Potter’s time in the area.

Things to consider:

• Riverside and woodland walks. Paths near the town lead through mature trees and along the water. They suit most abilities.
• The Hermitage. A well-known woodland walk to a folly beside a waterfall, managed by the National Trust for Scotland. Check conditions and access before going.
• Independent shops and cafes. Good for a lazy afternoon.
• Wildlife. The nearby Loch of the Lowes reserve is known for ospreys in the breeding season. Check with the reserve for current visitor information.

Pitlochry

Pitlochry is a busy but friendly Victorian-era town that works as a hub for visitors. It has shops, pubs, restaurants and a theatre, plus a good number of places to stay.

Things to consider:

• The river and dam. A walk along the Tummel and past the hydro-electric dam is a popular outing, with a fish ladder visible at certain times of year.
• Distilleries. The area has a number of whisky distilleries offering tours. Booking can be wise in peak season.
• Queen’s View. A famous viewpoint over Loch Tummel, a short drive from town.
• Walks. From gentle riverside strolls to hill walks, there are options for most abilities.
• Theatre. Pitlochry has a well-known theatre with a regular programme. Check what is on during your stay.

Pitlochry can be crowded in summer, so a morning start helps if you want quiet paths.

Aberfeldy and Loch Tay

Aberfeldy sits in a lovely stretch of the Tay valley, with a pleasant town centre, riverside walks and a historic bridge. Further west, Loch Tay is a long, narrow loch ringed by hills, with villages such as Kenmore at one end and Killin near the other.

Things to consider:

• Loch Tay views and shoreline walks. Quiet roads on either side let you choose your route.
• Ben Lawers. One of the better-known high hills in the area, popular with experienced walkers. Mountain weather can change quickly, so check conditions and be properly equipped.
• Water activities. Kayaking, paddleboarding and boat trips are available in places. Check with local operators about safety and seasons.
• Crannog Centre. The area has a well-known reconstruction of an ancient loch dwelling, but check current status before planning a visit.
• Fortingall and Glen Lyon. A long, scenic glen that suits a slow drive and a picnic.

Crieff, Loch Earn and the south

Crieff has a traditional main street, nearby hills and easy road links. Loch Earn is popular for water sports and walks, and the surrounding countryside is good for cycling.

Gleneagles, Auchterarder and Comrie are nearby and well-known as destinations in their own right.

Perth, Scone and the east

Perth is a good place for a day of shops, museums and riverside paths. Scone Palace, near Perth, is a historic site with grounds and gardens that are associated with Scottish coronations. Check opening times and events before you go.

Blairgowrie and the glens beyond reward visitors with raspberry fields, quiet back roads and hill scenery, although the character of the area changes through the year.

Walking in Perthshire

Walking is one of the main reasons people come. Some ideas by type:

• Easy and flat: riverside paths at Dunkeld, Aberfeldy or Pitlochry.
• Woodland: forest tracks and paths around Birnam and Dunkeld.
• Hill days: Ben Lawers and other hills for those with experience and equipment.
• Lochside: short walks along Loch Earn or Loch Tay.

For detailed ideas, see our guide to highland walks and short hikes near cottages. Remember that conditions vary, hill weather can change fast and you should carry appropriate clothing, food, water and a map. Tell someone your plans if you are going into remote country.

Food, drink and local producers

Perthshire has a strong food scene, from farm shops and delis to restaurants using local ingredients. Whisky distilleries and craft producers offer tours and tastings in places. If you are driving, remember that drink-driving limits apply and consider designated drivers or taxis.

Stocking your cottage from a farm shop or butcher can be one of the pleasures of a self-catering stay.

Wildlife and nature

The woods and rivers support a range of species. Visitors often hope for red squirrels, deer, birds of prey and salmon in season. Respect wildlife by keeping your distance, keeping dogs on leads where needed and following local guidance. Our tips on how to spot wildlife on a Highland holiday give practical advice.

When to visit

• Spring: fresh green woods, longer days and quieter trails.
• Summer: the busiest time, with long daylight and lively towns.
• Autumn: a favourite for the colours of the trees. Perthshire’s woodland can be spectacular in October.
• Winter: peaceful, with potential for snow and frosty walks. Check road conditions.

For a broader look at timing, see our guide to the best time to visit Scotland.

Sample two-day plan

Day one: Morning walk at Dunkeld and the Hermitage, lunch in the town, an afternoon drive to Pitlochry for the river walk and a distillery visit if it appeals.

Day two: Head west to Aberfeldy and Loch Tay. A gentle shoreline walk, lunch at a local cafe and a slow drive back along the loch as the light changes.

Adjust to the weather. Perthshire has plenty of indoor options as well.

Rainy-day options

Perthshire weather is changeable, so keep a few indoor ideas up your sleeve. Distillery tours, small museums, cafes, bookshops and the theatre in Pitlochry all work well when the hills are in cloud. Many woodland walks are also pleasant in light drizzle, as the tree cover gives some shelter. Pack waterproofs, not hope.

Where to stay

A cottage base lets you explore at your own pace. Look for properties within a manageable drive of the places you most want to visit. Our guide to choosing a self-catering cottage covers what to ask before booking, and the Highlands cottage planning guide takes a wider view.

How to Choose the Right Self-Catering Cottage
Best Walks and Short Hikes Near Highland Cottages

Frequently asked questions

How many days do I need in Perthshire?

A long weekend allows a taste of one or two areas. A week gives you time to explore different parts without rushing and to allow for weather.

Is Perthshire suitable for families?

Yes. There are woodland trails, rivers, wildlife and attractions of various kinds. Choose short walks and build in rest stops.

Do I need a car in Perthshire?

A car makes things much easier, especially for lochs and glens. Train and bus services connect some towns, but rural coverage is limited.

What is the best time to visit Perthshire?

It depends on what you like. Autumn is popular for colour, summer for long days and winter for quiet and atmosphere.

Conclusion

This Perthshire travel guide only scratches the surface, but a good approach is to pick one or two areas and explore them well. Mix woodland walks, small towns and lochside drives, leave room for weather and check current details before visiting. Perthshire rewards slow travel.