Explore a captivating landscape of glens, lochs, forests and moors when you visit Perthshire. This green-covered county in central Scotland boasts a beautiful natural environment, outdoor sports and wildlife. It is known as big tree country for its more than 200,000 acres (80, 937 hectares) of woodland. Beyond the countryside are attractive towns and villages in stunning settings.
Kickstart your outdoor adventures by hiking through nature reserves such as Loch of the Lowes and Balnaguard Glen, which is noted for its juniper woodland. Walk through the Birks of Aberfeldy, an area of woodland and waterfalls immortalized in a song by poet Robert Burns. Follow paths through Rannoch Forest, part of which comprises remnants of the ancient Caledonia pine forest. Go on a highland safari, a four-wheel drive trip into the Perthshire mountains.
Consider timing your visit to coincide with the Enchanted Forest's sound and light show, which takes place around October. Paths through Faskally Wood are lit a variety of colors at night accompanied by an original musical score.
Give in to your adventurous side with an extensive range of outdoor sports options. Go rafting on the Tay River, bungee jump off the 131-feet (40-meter) Garry Bridge in Killiecrankie and try canyoning in Bruar Canyon. During the winter, make tracks for Glenshee, which lays claim to being the largest skiing and snowboarding resort in the country.
For more leisurely pursuits, play golf on the championship courses of Gleneagles and tour historical buildings such as the 13th-century Blair Castle and Scone Palace. For centuries this was the crowning place of Scottish monarchs, including Robert the Bruce, who was crowned here in 1306.
Visit towns and villages such as Perth, the county's capital. Crieff is a market town that has developed a reputation for the choice and quality of its food and drink. Try international and traditional Scottish cuisine such as haggis, neeps and tatties.
Reach Perthshire by flying into Edinburgh or Glasgow, then drive or take a bus or train from either of these cities. Travel around the picturesque green country by car or bus.
