Aberfeldy Adventures

This blog was written for us by Susanne Arbuckle of Adventures Around Scotland about her visit to Perthshire in May 2022 when she was staying at Brae House B&B (one of Scotland's Best B&Bs).

Aberfeldy is a great base for exploring Highland Perthshire and beyond, but you may prefer to keep your adventures more local as there is a wide variety of fun and unique activities on the doorstep of this bustling town. From iconic native wildlife encounters to the production of world class chocolate, you might be surprised at the diversity of experiences available. Although this blog covers 5 of my recommended things to do in and around Aberfeldy, this list is just a taster of what is available when you book a break in this glorious part of Scotland.

1. Go on an off-road adventure with Highland Safaris

The landscape around Aberfeldy looks exactly like the Scotland many people imagine - rolling hills, misty glens, thick forests, glassy lochs, tumbling waterfalls and a backdrop of mountains. It has inspired writers and poets, including Robert Burns, and continues to dazzle visitors today. There are many options for getting outside and immersing yourself in the scenery including walking, cycling and canoeing, but there is also a fun alternative to the more traditional outdoor pursuits.

Hop in one of Highland Safari’s off-road vehicles and your knowledgeable guide will transport you across dirt tracks and up hills to various vantage points where you can spot local wildlife, including red deer, and admire extensive views across the surrounding countryside. Each trip includes a local dram in a traditional Scottish bothy with a few stories thrown in. If you’re looking for a local tour with a difference, this ticks the boxes.

2. Enjoy a close-up encounter with red squirrels at Cluny House Gardens

Did you know Scotland has a ‘Big 5’ list of wildlife species that can be spotted on your travels around the country? The list includes red deer, golden eagles, otters, harbour seals and red squirrels. Apart from seals, all these iconic creatures can be found around Perthshire, although as with most wildlife it takes a bit of effort, patience and luck to secure a sighting.

Luckily there is one place you can go near Aberfeldy where there is a high chance of a close-up encounter with not just one red squirrel but several of them. Cluny House Gardens has set up several feeders that are frequented by the resident squirrel population living among the garden’s coniferous and deciduous trees. The best time to visit is around 9 - 9.30 am when the food is put out and they appear in numbers, although it is possible to see them at any time of the day.

Although the squirrels are a highlight, a stroll around the pretty garden is rewarding in its own right.

3. Book a chocolate tour at The Highland Chocolatier visitor attraction

Scotland may be famous for producing first-class whisky and highly sought-after haggis, but thanks to Master Chocolatier, Iain Burnett, it can also lay claim to some of the world’s best chocolate. Don’t just take my word for it, his chocolates have won over 40 prestigious awards and his truffles have twice been awarded the best in the world.

At his 4-star tourist attraction in the village of Grandtully near Aberfeldy, you can take a self-guided audio tour which covers the entire chocolate-making process from selecting the best cocoa to creating the perfect end product which you can then sample in the Chocolate Lounge as part of the tour. Enjoy a selection of Iain’s creations during a tutored audio tasting session and then browse the well-stocked shop which is heaven for any chocolate lover. I can guarantee you will leave with a whole new appreciation for handcrafted chocolate.

4. Join a whisky tasting with a difference at Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

As mentioned above, whisky is one of Scotland’s most famous products and distillery tours are a ‘must-do’ activity for visitors to the country and locals looking to increase their knowledge of Scotland’s national drink. At Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery you could opt to join one of their standard tours, but I would personally recommend booking in to one of their special events for a whisky tasting with a difference.

How about combining a tour with a whisky and artisan chocolate tasting, or discover how music affects your whisky drinking experience, or how different cask finishes influence the flavour of whisky. Their events change throughout the year and recently they even held a whisky and doughnuts evening, so it is worth checking out their upcoming calendar to discover what unique experiences are on during your stay.

5. Discover the history of Castle Menzies

Take a self-guided tour of this 16th century castle, home to the Chiefs of Clan Menzies for over 500 years. After the last family owner, Sir Neil Menzies, died in 1910 without any heirs, the Menzies estates were auctioned off and it subsequently fell to ruin before being taken over and restored by the Menzies Clan Society.

Today visitors can explore many of the rooms, including the room where Bonnie Prince Charlie is said to have stayed for 2 nights on his way to Culloden. Just four days after he left, the castle played host to a detachment of Government troops as the Menzies Chief aimed to take a neutral stance during the second Jacobite Rising.

Although some of the rooms remained unfurnished, many of the building’s original features have been retained and there are some significant objects on display including the Clan Chief’s chair believed to have been made in Italy during the early 16^th century.

Entry to the castle also includes access to The Menzies Mausoleum which can be organised with the castle manager. Located in the nearby Old Kirk of Weem, it is a very atmospheric place and worth the short excursion to get there.

All photos copyright Susanne Arbuckle 2022.

Accommodation

Brae House B&B is one of Scotland's Best B&Bs. This 4 Star GOLD Bed and Breakfast sits on the edge of Aberfeldy and has 2 guest rooms.