Perthshire is centrally situated for touring Scotland. It is a popular tourist destination in its own right because of the natural beauty of the countryside.
Pitlochry is a Perthshire town that attracts tourists in their droves to enjoy the walks, view salmon making their way up the fish ladder (mid May is a good time to visit, we saw over a dozen salmon), fish or just relax on Loch Faskally in a rowing boat. It's a feel-good place. The small town centre has a choice of restaurants, pubs, cafes, carry-oots (take-aways), hotels and shops. People relax outside in the evenings, talking, drinking and creating a lively atmosphere. The Festival Theatre provides nightly entertainment and even teas during the day, all in a very pleasant setting. Scottish folk music and ceilidhs can be found at one of the many hotels.
Fourteen miles to the south of Pitlochry, is Dunkeld. It's historic cathedral overlooks the river and has lovely wooded gardens for a stroll or just to laze and watch the river flow by. The National Trust has restored the exteriors of twenty or so houses that destroyed in 1689 when Jacobite forces lay siege to Dunkeld. There are at least three antique shops in the town if you like a browse through old china and furniture.
To the east, just out of Dunkeld is Craig Wood with its carpet of bluebells (in mid May). Further east along the same road, is the Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Centre (Tel: 01350 727337) with binoculars on hand and TV camera bringing nature close up to you. You may be fortunate and spot an otter, or great crested grebe or even an osprey.
A Beatrix Potter exhibition is to be found just south of Dunkeld with a children's play area, gardens and tea shop. If Benjamin Bunny makes you feel sentimental then add this to your itinerary (Tel: 01350 727674).
Further south, along the A827, Aberfeldy, with its water mill and Black Watch memorial is a quieter and simpler town. There is a very nice tea shop in the high street with truly scrumptious diet defeating cakes, a good gift shop, some walks, but not much else in the way of visitor attractions. The town looks in need of a good coat of paint and some TLC. It's main attraction appears to be the river rafting trips which range from easy to wild and crazy. Trips take a half or full day, and look really good fun (Tel: 01887 829706).
Last here, but first for many, is the world famous Gleneagles golf course and 5 star resort. Scotland has many notable golf courses on offer but if you want to satisfy your dream of playing at Gleneagles then check out some of the self-catering accommodation that will provide a comfortable place to lay your head and dream of birdies, and eagles, and your own personal success on the course.
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