Perthshire is where the Lowlands become the Highlands. The landscape shifts as you head north from Perth: forests thicken, rivers widen, and mountains appear on the horizon. It is often driven through on the way to Inverness, which is a shame because Perthshire deserves time of its own. Ancient trees, dramatic waterfalls, handsome villages and some excellent whisky.
The Hermitage
Just outside Dunkeld, The Hermitage is a short woodland walk through enormous Douglas fir trees to Ossian's Hall, a folly overlooking the Black Linn Falls. The trees here are some of the tallest in the UK and the effect is cathedral-like. It takes about 30-40 minutes and is one of the best short walks in Scotland.
Dunkeld
A charming village on the River Tay with a part-ruined cathedral and good walks along the river. The main street has independent shops and cafes. It feels unhurried and is a natural stop on the A9 corridor.
Pitlochry
Pitlochry is a Victorian resort town that still draws visitors. The dam and fish ladder let you watch salmon leaping upstream (best in autumn). The Pitlochry Festival Theatre runs a seasonal programme. Blair Athol distillery is in town, and the high street has plenty of places to eat and browse.
Blair Castle and Killiecrankie
Blair Castle, seat of the Atholl Estates, is a white-walled castle with 30 rooms open to the public and extensive grounds. The Atholl Highlanders, the only legal private army in Europe, are based here.
Killiecrankie gorge, just north of Pitlochry, is where the 1689 battle took place. The Soldier's Leap, where a government soldier reportedly jumped 5.5 metres across the gorge to escape, is a short walk from the visitor centre.
Falls of Bruar and Queen's View
Falls of Bruar are a short walk from the car park at House of Bruar (which is also an excellent food hall and country clothing shop). The upper falls are well worth the climb. Queen's View at Loch Tummel is one of the classic Highland panoramas, looking west along the loch towards Schiehallion.
Whisky
Edradour near Pitlochry is Scotland's smallest traditional distillery, a cluster of whitewashed buildings in a little glen. The tour is intimate and charming. Blair Athol distillery in Pitlochry town centre is well set up for visitors and produces a solid Highland malt.
Why Perthshire works as a touring stop
Perthshire sits on the Edinburgh to Inverness corridor. If you are doing a transfer between Edinburgh and Inverness, a half-day in Perthshire transforms a drive into a touring day. The Hermitage, a distillery visit and lunch in Pitlochry is a natural combination. See our full Perthshire guide for more.
Frequently asked questions
Is Perthshire worth a full day or just a stop?
Either works. A half-day stop at The Hermitage and Pitlochry is lovely as part of an Edinburgh to Inverness transfer. A full day lets you add Blair Castle, Killiecrankie, Falls of Bruar and a distillery.
How far is Pitlochry from Edinburgh?
About an hour and forty minutes by car via the A9. It sits roughly halfway between Edinburgh and Inverness, making it an ideal stop on a transfer day.
Are there speed cameras on the A9?
Yes. Average speed cameras cover most of the A9 between Perth and Inverness. Stick to the limit, relax and enjoy the scenery. Or let us drive you.
Can you visit Edradour distillery without booking?
You can sometimes walk in, but booking ahead is recommended. Edradour is Scotland's smallest traditional distillery and tours are small groups, so places fill up.
