How To Visit Perthshire, Scotland

Visiting Perthshire, Scotland

Every time we visit Perthshire, I’m reminded how beautiful it is. This is a region I visit again and again, every time discovering a new highlight.

Sitting between the Lowlands and the Highlands, Perthshire is best known for its forest walks and postcard-perfect villages. But what struck me was the food scene, which is easily one of Scotland’s best - a seemingly endless list of artisan bakeries and destination dining restaurants, inns, and bistros, all rooted in seasonality and local produce.

Then there are the hotels. What can we say, other than the boutique accommodation scene here is on another level. You can choose from stylish farmhouses, cosy cottages, luxury hotels and design-led inns, all sitting amongst glorious countryside or historic towns.

There is also plenty to see and do in Perthshire away from the eateries and boutique stays.

Distilleries, craft breweries, historic castles, beautiful gardens, woodland walks, mountain hikes and Munros, waterfalls, wildlife tours and scenic drives sit close to the main routes, making it easy to shape days that blend nature, culture, and history.

All that is to say, Perthshire is the perfect standalone destination for anyone looking for a countryside-focused weekend getaway. Though it also makes a scenic pause on a longer journey between Edinburgh and the Highlands.

Perthshire Guide

Sitting in the heart of Scotland, Perthshire is made up of distinct areas, each with its own character and charm.

There are many ways to build a Perthshire itinerary, and a trip here can easily fill an entire weekend or longer. But it’s a vast region, so generally it's best to split your itinerary into one or two areas. This approach avoids backtracking and gives you time to enjoy both the countryside’s slower rhythm and Perthshire’s wildlife, food, and historic villages without rushing.

Towns in the popular east near the A9 corridor include Pitlochry, Dunkeld, Aberfeldy, and Grandtully. Notable villages further west include Comrie, Crieff, Gleneagles, and Muthil. To the south of Perthshire is Kinross and the nearby city of Perth. To the north are the rolling hills around Loch Tay and the picturesque villages of Killin and Kenmore.

Browse the guides below to plan your time in Perthshire, Scotland.