THINGS TO DO
Here are some suggestions of things you can do around Crieff, Edinburgh and further afield. It is worth noting that August is a busy time of year, so try to plan in advance. Also, sometimes the tourist hotspots can become less enjoyable, so going off the beaten track is best!
EDINBURGH
If you have time, spending a couple of nights in Scotland's capital is very worthwhile. There are a wide range of hotels to choose from. We would strongly recommend:
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climbing Arthur's Seat or Carlton Hill for spectacular views across the city,
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heading to Stockbridge for the lovely boutique shops and Botanical Gardens/Inverleith Park,
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meandering along the Water of Leith to Dean Village,
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trying a full Scottish breakfast with haggis, at least once!
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visiting the Royal Mile, Victoria Street, Grass Market and Edinburgh Castle.
There are some great restaurant options from fine dining to street food. Just ask if you want any help!
ROADTRIP
If you have time, a quick road trip can give a chance to see some of Scotland's breathtaking scenery.
Driving from Edinburgh, via Blairgowrie to stay a night near Braemar/Ballater through the Cairngorms. Then up to Inverness where you can explore Loch Ness, Dunrobin Castle, etc.
If heading west, you could head via Loch Lomond, Glencoe (for the views) and on to a sometimes less visited area, Arisaig/Mallaig where you will go past the Glenfinnan Viaduct famous from the Harry Potter films. There are some amazing beaches and we would recommend MW Guiding for hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking - he knows the area very well.
The Isle of Skye is very popular and has some dramatic areas to explore.
If you have longer, you can do a loop to take in all these areas! If you are seriously considering a road trip, please ask Andrew's advice as where you go can completely depend on what your interests are and what you want to do!
GOLFING
Scotland is famous for its golf courses. However, it is a busy time of year, so we recommend booking in advance. Luckily, it stays light enough to play late into the evening.
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Gleneagles is located 20 minutes from Crieff with three championship courses.
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Crieff and Comrie are both more local and friendly courses.
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St Andrews, Carnoustie and Kingsbarns are all 1hr 15mins east from Crieff.
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Heading north, Royal Dornoch, Castle Stuart and Nairn are lovely links courses near Inverness, 2hrs 30 mins - 3hrs 30 mins north.
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If you are staying near Edinburgh, Gullane and North Berwick are both fabulous courses 40 mins from the City Centre.
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If you head west, towards Fort William, make the drive to play nine holes at Traigh Golf Course - worth a google just to have a look!
If you have any questions, please get it touch!
WALKING
Whether you would like a gentle stroll or a more adventurous walk, there is something for everyone. It is a great time of year to see lots of amazing wildlife too, so we would encourage you to get out and about!
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The nearest Munros (mountains over 3,000 feet), are Ben Vorlich by Loch Earn or Ben Chonzie by Loch Turret both within 30 mins drive with 5-7hr hiking.
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The Knock of Crieff is around 6km, 1-2hr walk on well-marked tracks and paths with lovely views.
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There are extensive walking/hiking options in the Cairngorms, by the coast - some of the beaches on the west coast you could mistake for the Carribean (until you get in the water).
If this is something you are interested in, please let us know as we are passionate about making sure you see the best of this beautiful country!
We can also put you in contact with a walking, hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, bagpiping guide if you want a professional steer!
CULTURE
Most places of cultural interest are in Edinburgh and Glasgow. However, dotted throughout Scotland are various interesting options.
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There are whisky distilleries all over Scotland. Just by Crieff is The Glenturret Distillery (Scotland's oldest working distillery) where you can enjoy a tour and tasting - just be careful if driving as there is a zero tolerance on breathalyser tests. There is also a two Michelin star restaurant at the distillery.
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The V&A in Dundee, 1 hr from Crieff, has interesting exhibitions and is right next to RRS Discovery, the ship that took Scott and Shackleton to Antartica in 1901.
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If you're into crafts, 15 minutes from Edinburgh Airport is Araminta Campbell's Atelier, where you can see traditional handwoven tartans and tweeds being made (appointment required).
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For those interested in the military, The Black Watch Museum in Perth (40mins from Crieff) explores the history of Scotland's oldest highland regiment.
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Culloden Battlefield is located just outside Inverness - for all the Outlander fans.
CASTLES & GARDENS
There are lots of stunning gardens and interesting castles you can visit - here are but a few suggestions!
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The Japanese Gardens at Cowden are a 30 mins' drive from Crieff. A further 30 mins drive and you'll arrive at Falkland Palace and Gardens.
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Stirling Castle is situated between Edinburgh and Crieff and worth a stop to look across where William Wallace once battled at Stirling Bridge.
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Glamis Castle, home of the late Queen Mother. is just over an hour's drive.
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For those that head north to Inverness, it is worth visiting Dunrobin Castle although it is a further 1hr drive.
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Edinburgh Castle has an interesting museum and great views of the city.
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If you go to Skye, both Eilean Doran and Dunvegan are worth a stop.