Things to Do in Perthshire: Top Attractions Near Dunkeld, Pitlochry & the A9

Callum Murray
Sep 4
4 min read

Perthshire, often called the “Big County”, is where Scotland’s landscapes gather in one place: lochs and rivers, forested hills, historic towns and rich cultural heritage. Stretching from the Lowlands to the Highlands, it is a region celebrated for its beauty and variety. For travellers exploring Scotland, Perthshire’s location makes it an ideal stop, and for those seeking things to do near Dunkeld and Pitlochry, it is a treasure chest of activities.

Set just off the A9, Dowally Caravan Park is a quiet, family-run base in the heart of Highland Perthshire. With both self-catering lodges in Perthshire and static caravans near Dunkeld, it is perfectly positioned for guests to explore castles, distilleries, trails and wildlife before returning to a comfortable base each evening.

A Short History of Perthshire

Perthshire’s story stretches deep into Scotland’s past. Ancient kings were crowned at Scone, once the seat of Scottish monarchy. In Dunkeld, the cathedral on the banks of the Tay became a centre of early Christianity and remains a symbol of resilience through centuries of change.

The glens around Killiecrankie echo with Jacobite history, where the Battle of 1689 saw Highland clans clash with government troops. Centuries later, poets and novelists such as Robert Burns and Sir Walter Scott drew inspiration from the county’s wooded hills and dramatic rivers. Today, Perthshire’s history lives on in its castles, churches and storytelling traditions, ready to be explored by curious visitors.

Best Things to Do Near Dunkeld & Pitlochry

Walks & Viewpoints

The Hermitage: A National Trust woodland near Dunkeld, where towering Douglas firs frame Ossian’s Hall and the rushing Black Linn Falls. An easy, family-friendly walk in all seasons.
Ben Vrackie: Rising above Pitlochry, this 841-metre hill offers panoramic views of the Cairngorms on clear days. A well-marked path makes it a rewarding half-day hike.
Queen’s View, Loch Tummel: One of Scotland’s most famous vistas, said to have charmed Queen Victoria. A short drive west of Pitlochry, with a visitor centre and café on site.

Wildlife & Nature

Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve: Just outside Dunkeld, this Scottish Wildlife Trust reserve is home to ospreys from April to September, red squirrels and wintering wildfowl. Hides make it easy to spot animals year-round.
Tay Forest Park: Covering much of Perthshire, it offers waymarked trails, picnic spots and scenic lookouts. Ideal for walkers and cyclists who want a taste of Highland wilderness.

Heritage & Culture

Blair Castle: Seat of the Dukes of Atholl, with opulent interiors, armoury collections and extensive gardens. Seasonal events make it a lively family visit.
Dunkeld Cathedral: A riverside landmark mixing ruin and restoration, telling the story of Perthshire’s religious and cultural history.
Killiecrankie Gorge: Site of the 1689 battle and the legendary “Soldier’s Leap”, where history meets natural drama.

Food & Whisky

Edradour Distillery: Scotland’s smallest traditional distillery, offering intimate tours in a farmstead setting near Pitlochry.
Blair Athol Distillery: A classic Highland single malt experience in Pitlochry, pairing heritage with whisky-making craft.
House of Bruar: Known as the “Harrods of the North”, it is a destination for Scottish produce, clothing and art, plus a food hall bursting with local flavours.

Adventure

White-Water Rafting on the Tay: Operators in Aberfeldy and Grandtully offer rafting, kayaking and paddleboarding, with options for both families and thrill-seekers.
Cycling & Scenic Drives: From gentle rides along lochside paths to the sweeping roads across Rannoch Moor, Perthshire is perfect for pedal power or scenic motoring.

Planning Your Trip

Perthshire is a year-round destination. Spring brings wildflowers and osprey returns, summer offers long daylight hours for hillwalking, autumn blazes with woodland colour and winter reveals crisp views and festive charm.

Driving is straightforward: Dunkeld is just over an hour from Edinburgh and Glasgow, while Pitlochry is a short hop further north on the A9. Many attractions sit within a 10–30 minute drive of Dowally Caravan Park, making day trips simple.

Why Stay at Dowally Caravan Park?

After exploring Highland Perthshire attractions, the comfort of a welcoming base makes all the difference. Dowally Caravan Park offers:

Self-catering lodges in Perthshire with decking and modern amenities.
Static caravans near Dunkeld providing affordable, cosy accommodation.
Free Wi-Fi, efficient heating and private parking.
A peaceful setting with easy access to Dunkeld, Pitlochry and the wider Highlands.

With a caravan park near Pitlochry as your base, you can balance days of adventure with evenings of relaxation, knowing everything you need is close at hand.

Perthshire’s blend of history, nature and culture makes it one of Scotland’s most rewarding regions to visit. From cathedral towns and castles to lochside trails and whisky tours, every day brings a new discovery.

Stay at Dowally Caravan Park to enjoy both comfort and convenience. With self-catering lodges in Perthshire and static caravans near Dunkeld, we offer accommodation near the A9 that puts you close to the best things to do near Dunkeld and Pitlochry. Plan your trip today and book your stay at our caravan park near Pitlochry for a Highland holiday to remember.

FAQs

What are the best walks near Dunkeld?

The Hermitage offers easy riverside trails, while Ben Vrackie near Pitlochry provides a more challenging hillwalk with rewarding views.

Is Perthshire good for family holidays?

Yes, families can enjoy wildlife at Loch of the Lowes, gentle forest walks, castle visits and activities such as rafting or cycling.

Where should I stay near Pitlochry on the A9?

Dowally Caravan Park is a quiet, family-run site offering lodges and caravans just minutes from Pitlochry and Dunkeld.

What whisky distilleries can I visit in Perthshire?

Popular stops include Edradour, Scotland’s smallest distillery, Blair Athol in Pitlochry and Dalwhinnie within an hour’s drive.

What is Perthshire famous for?

Known as the “Big County”, Perthshire is famed for its forests, rivers, castles, whisky distilleries and as a hub for outdoor adventure in Scotland.

Aerial view of self-catering lodges at Dowally Caravan Park near Dunkeld and Pitlochry, overlooking the River Tay and surrounding Perthshire hills. — Self-catering lodges at Dowally Caravan Park with views across the River Tay in Highland Perthshire.