Birnam, near Dunkeld in Perthshire
From Perth and the south, take A9 north approx 12 miles. Take the first turn on the right signposted Birnam and Dunkeld. From Pitlochry and the north proceed approx 12 miles south and take the 2nd turn on the left signposted Birnam and Dunkeld. There are breathtaking views of Birnam Hill to enjoy its a peaceful area where you can listen to the birds sing and look out for red squirrels.
Dunkeld and Birnam are charming little villages nestled in 'Big Tree Country', Scotland's gateway to the Highlands. Throughout the seasons the peaceful beauty of Perthshire explodes in colour, from the fresh shades of green in the ancient woodlands in spring, to the hues of purple heather in the hills of late summer to the feast of glorious colour in autumn and the lovely fresh snows of winter, Perthshire is spectacular all year round!
The area has an extensive range of activities for all tastes - you can choose from walking, hiking, bird/wildlife watching (nesting ospreys at the Loch of the Lowes), cycling (excellent on and off road tracks), golf (over 40 courses in Perthshire alone) with Dunkeld itself having a great course, fishing on the Tay and local lochs, canoeing and swimming - to name but a few! For those who are more adventurous there are 'extreme sports' based locally including white water rafting, bouldering etc with Nae Limits. Also off road driving, archery, and quad biking. Skiing and snowboarding are about 45 minutes away at Glenshee.
Perthshire is full of historic places of interest: lots of castles with beautiful gardens to sit and relax in (Blair Castle, Scone Palace), Dunkeld Cathedral by the tranquil River Tay, The Scottish Crannog on Loch Tay and many museums and art galleries to visit.
Dunkeld itself hosts a range of interesting shops, restaurants and pubs, and is a haven of inspiration to authors, musicians and artists alike. Events include Dougie Maclean's Amber Festival and the Neil Gow Festival. The local Birnam Arts Centre has art exhibitions, concerts, plays and the Beatrix Potter exhibition. Beatrix Potter spent holidays here as a child and was inspired to write the story of Peter Rabbit here in Dunkeld!
Birnam is an excellent base to explore the glories of this wonderful county. Come back to the warm of a self-catering holiday cottage and relax with a bottle of wine or a wee dram while enjoying the breath taking views of Birnam Hill.