Pitlochry-Perthshire-Central Scotland
Families Central Scotland-Pitlochry
Luxury fun packed getaways in Pitlochry with a hint of adventure
Introduction
Pitlochry, also known as the ‘Mini Edinburgh’ is famous for its picturesque scenery and idyllic highland countryside and is a fine base for exploring Highland Perthshire. With its own festival theatre, stunning surrounding countryside, a high street crammed with arts and craft shopping, restaurants and pubs, Pitlochry is the perfect place for a luxury brake away.
One of the most attractive features of Pitlochry is its prominent shield of mountains. They may not be amongst Scotland’s highest, but include Pitlochrys own Ben Vrackie standing at 841m tall.
Even if you’re not into shopping or climbing, there’s still a great deal of activities to do ranging from pony trekking and 4×4 driving to visiting both the whisky and beer distilleries. However you decide to spend your time in Pitlochry is sure to be a memorable one.

Pitlochry countryside
Hotel/Accommodation
Birchwood Hotel in Pitlochry is located in the heart of the beautiful Perthshire countryside, surrounded in its own two acre woodland. The surrounding area of Pitlochry is full of wildlife ranging from roe deer to buzzards and red squirrels providing a refreshing and tranquil stay in the majestic Scottish countryside. This stunning Victorian house is the perfect base for a luxury adventure weekend away with the family.
Or
The Macdonald Loch Rannoch Hotel is hidden away in 250 acres of breathtaking Perthshire countryside and with its comfortable lounges, sumptuous bedrooms and stunning views is a reminder of gentler less hurried times. The Macdonald Loch Rannoch Hotel is perfect for those families looking for a weekend getaway with an abundance of attractions for all to en joy. Whether you want to walk the beautiful highlands of Perthshire, go rock climbing or test your abilities at horse riding then, you’re sure to have a perfect family weekend in Scotland

Birchwood Hotel
Friday Evening
After you have settled down and unwound in your hotel, why not head to Opus 1 for a truly magical dining experience which is sure to add a sparkle to your night. The restaurant has a contemporary style which is comfortable and elegant, with a friendly yet polished service. Opus1 offers a fantastic culinary experience using the best fresh local and seasonal produce, artfully presented, innovative and memorable.
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If you’re looking to enjoy an exquisite meal in a dramatic but tranquil setting then The Port-na-craig Inn is the place to go. The restaurant is set on the banks of a river providing an idyllic setting for al fresco dining in the summer months, however you won’t be disappointed in winter as the ambience inside the restaurant is truly sublime. Port-na-craig offers a mouth-watering menu with emphasis on fresh local produce using the finest Perthshire vegetables, herbs and local seafood.
Alternatively branch out into Perthshire and choose from a selection of family friendly restaurants which are sure to cater for everyone’s needs.
Saturday Morning-
Why not wake up with a difference and head to Perthshire’s River Tay for a white water rafting experience. Put on your wet suit and try your hand at what has become the most popular and most social of all the adrenalin sports. Take a deep breath, inhale the fresh air and absorb the epic views of Perthshire before tackling your way down the rapids, its sure to add some excitement to the start of your day.
If water sports are not for you and your family then why not take an off-road adventure in a 4×4. Forge your way along forest tracks through mountain burns and up heather clad slopes. You will learn new skills on how to handle different terrains, so whether negotiating steep slopes, driving in snow, fording streams or crossing marshy ground you will be able to tackle the problem.
Built up an appetite? Then choose from a selection of restaurants, bars and cafes Perthshire has to offer. If you’re looking for something a little special then head to Victoria’s Coffee Shop and enjoy a blend of quality in relaxing surroundings. Victoria’s Coffee shop caters for those in need of simple, speedy light meal or snacks but with assurance of quality cuisine and first class service. Whether it be a delicious homemade Victoria special burger or a generously filled warm ciabatta you can be assured of a memorable top quality experience.
Or choose from a range of Perthshire’s extensive cafes, bars and restaurants
Saturday Afternoon-Arts, crafts and more shopping
Pitlochry is host to a mixture of high street shopping outlets and unique independent shops appealing to both the young and old alike. Expect to find a range of shops from pottery, art, crafts, furniture, gardening, bookshops, clothing plus many more. It should be said that some of the best antique shops can be found here selling a wide range of porcelain, paintings, silver, clocks and furniture to interest the enthusiastic beginner and the specialist collector. Whatever shopping experience you have you’re sure to find some hidden gems and something a little bit different in Pitlochry.
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A trip to Pitlochry is not complete without a trip to Blair Castle, the magnificent ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl. A tour of the castle is sure to do down well with the family as there’s a range of attention-grabbing displays sure to indulge everyone interests. You will be able to sample 30 rooms jam-packed full of treasures and alive with personalities of bygone era. Features of particular interest include an impressive ballroom, a superb china room and an ornamental armoury which includes targes and muskets used at the Battle of Culloden.
However it’s not just the insides of the castle that will impress, Blair Castle is at the hub of a breath-taking historic landscape featuring a magnificent nine acre walled garden and red deer park. To make family visits extra special Blair Castle is hosting weekly family friendly days packed full of activities for the family to enjoy.
Finish the perfect afternoon off with a refreshing visit to a local coffee shop. Whether you grab a hot chocolate, wake up with an espresso or indulge in a freshly made pastry, it’s a great way to take a ten minute break and ponder the day’s events.
Return to your luxury hotel for some pampering and get ready for the theatre and fine dining.
Saturday Evening
Relax and unwind after an action packed day and head to one of Pitlochry’s spectacular restaurants. Head to The Loft Restaurant, located in Pitlochry. The Loft is a great pre theatre dining destination which offers areas for both formal and informal dining, so whatever the occasion you’re sure to find the right ambiance setting for you and your family. The menu is sure to delight with a strong focus on fresh local Scottish ingredients skilfully prepared with a creative touch.
Whether the season is autumn, winter, spring or summer a trip to the theatre won’t disappoint as the Pitlochry Festival Theatre is a hive of activity hosting an all year round schedule of entertainment with style. Whether you decide to enjoy the ballet, contemporary dance, opera or musical plays you’re sure to have a fantastic time with the family
Sunday Morning & Early Afternoon- The perfect day for a trek.
After a welcoming lie in, why not finish off an enjoyable getaway to Perthshire with a horse riding and pony trekking adventure. Take a superb scenic route up into the spectacular Scottish Highlands and tackle the great outdoors whether you’re a novice or professional. Dependent on your horse riding ability you may opt for a beginner’s instructional trek along a woodland path or a full day adventurous hack negotiating the rugged highland terrain. Whatever you decide you and your family are sure to have some stories to tell by the end of your Perthshire adventure.
This entry was posted on Friday, November 6th, 2009 at 2:51 pm and is filed under Families Luxury. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.

