Perthshire Holiday Vacations
Tuesday, May 29th, 2007Perthshire, sometimes acknowledged as the ‘Gateway to the Highlands,’ is a historic county located in central Scotland. With its stunning backdrop, enchanting rural beauty, rolling hills, gleaming lochs, sparkling rivers, and thriving towns, Perthshire is considered one of the best tourist destinations in the UK. Steeped in traditions, the county was once the economic as well as political base of the old Scots parliament. Further, Perthshire was a prominent battleground during the 18th century. This article further elucidates some of the significant towns and tourist attractions of the county.
Perth City is perhaps the most important town in the county. The city now stands at the place where once the Romans built a fort at meeting point of the Tay River and the Almond River. Perth City boasts of such attractions as Elcho Castle – built during the 16th century; Huntingtower, otherwise known as the House of Ruthven, which consists of two tower houses; and Scone Palace, displaying a superb collection of paintings, porcelain, and antique furniture. Places of tourist interest also include Branklyn Garden, one of the finest in the country; Caithness Glass Visitor Centre, which provides opportunities to enjoy glass making skills; Noah’s Ark – a play barn particularly designed for children below 12; and the Bell’s Cherrybank Centre, which boasts of the largest collection of heathers in Europe. In addition, the capital town is also home to a chain of shops, museums, and festival theater, apart from a leisure pool.
Another prominent town is Crieff, which was once a favorite holiday spot of Queen Victoria. Few among the attractions here are Macrosty Park, Lady Mary’s Walk, Artery Gallery, Auchinggarich Wildlife Centre, Drummond Castle Gardens, and Highland Heathers. Significant towns in Perthshire also include Dunning whose focal points are the 9 ft Dupplin Celtic Cross and an Iron Age Fort, which was a Roman camp during the 1st century AD and the tower of St Serf during the 12th century. Other worth mentioning areas in Perthshire are Pitlochry, wrapped by mountain scenery and home to attractions like Fish Ladder and Pitlochry Dam; Auchterarder, which boasts of the longest street in Scotland; Blackford, which is famed for its Highland games and springs; and Blairgowrie, on the shores of the River Ericht and which is highly regarded for its Glamis Castle and enchanting views of the Glenshee Mountains.
Apart from scenic and historic attractions, Perthshire is mecca to a host of recreational activities. No matter visitors want to enjoy white water rafting or kayaking, Perthshire offers endless opportunities for water sports. Likewise, for horse lovers, great options are available for horse riding and racing. In addition, with a plethora of world-class golf courses, Perthshire renders wonderful facilities for golf. Also, Perthshire hosts a range cultural event, such as Pitlochry Festival. Since a secluded destination tucked away among tall trees and excellent scenery, Perthshire provides excellent options for weddings and honeymoons.
Above all, Perthshire is within easy reach of almost all great tourist destinations. For instance, Perthshire is only an hour’s drive from such prominent places as Edinburgh and Glasgow.