Make your journey the start of your holiday - at Dunkeld
Whether you’re in need of a leg-stretch, or somewhere to fuel-up before checking in, we recommend a pit-stop at Dunkeld, en route to the Cairngorms National Park.
The picturesque town of Dunkeld is situated just off the A9, nestled on the banks of the River Tay and is a handy place to stop and enjoy some delicious scran before arriving at your Love Cairngorms destination, approximately an hour and a half away.
The Scottish Deli
Situated in the heart of Dunkeld the Scottish Deli is a must for filling your belly or stocking up on tasty treats for your stay. The shop itself has lots of original features and bags of character and is a treasure trove of delights. As one of Scotland’s leading specialty food retailers, they offer a huge variety of quality produce from all over Scotland, a large range of traditional deli produce from all over the world and a great variety of wines, beers, and spirits. The staff are a very friendly bunch and more than happy to share their knowledge of Scottish food.
Their daytime sandwich menu is something quite spectacular, with over 20 different gourmet sandwich ideas (which can be served on a variety of different breads, or as salad) you really are spoilt for choice! They have a great range of gluten free, vegetarian and vegan options plus they are fully licensed so if you’re not the designated driver, you can enjoy a wee glass of something with your lunch.
“The Scottish Deli in the Evening” is open for dinner offering a delicious menu of Scottish/Spanish tapas and deli treats, along with a great range of delicious wines, beers and gins. Best to call ahead to check opening times and make a booking to avoid disappointment!
Highchairs available for the littlest of companions and four-legged friends welcome!
On street parking is available along with a large public car park at the north end of the village, just 5 minutes’ walk away.
The Hermitage
Protected by the National Trust for Scotland, The Hermitage is designated as an area of outstanding natural beauty due to the vast stretch of ancient forest that covers the landscape from Blair Atholl in the north to Crieff in the south, with the town of Dunkeld somewhere in the middle.
Once an 18th Century recreation ground for the Dukes of Atholl, The Hermitage really is a breath-taking woodland walk all year round, with a 1.5 mile trail to explore. The huge, majestic Douglas Firs tower high above you as you follow the path along the River Braan to the roaring Black Linn waterfall, crashing on the rocks below. While you stop to take in these sights, there is plenty of wildlife to spot too. Look out for the red squirrels dashing about and keep your eyes peeled for salmon leaping up the waterfalls as they make their way to their spawning grounds in November and December. You might even be lucky enough to spot beavers popping up in the water.
Nestled in the woods, the amazing Ossians Hall is really worth a visit. Built in 1757 as the focal point of the forest, the National Trust for Scotland has restored the hall back to its former glory and provides a fantastic viewing platform to gaze down at the magnificent Black Linn Falls.
How to get there
The Hermitage is located just off the A9 around 30 minutes’ drive north of Perth and 5 minutes after the turnoff to Dunkeld.
There is a car park on site which is £3 for the day and there is partial pushchair / wheelchair access.
For more information before you visit, click here.
*banner photo credit: Ben Wicks @profwicks