The Hermitage
An 18th-century pleasure garden where mirrors, falls, and towering firs create theatrical wonder in the Scottish wilderness.
Step into an 18th-century pleasure garden where towering Douglas firs frame the dramatic Black Linn Falls. The Hermitage showcases Ossian's Hall, a whimsical folly adorned with mirrors and designed to create theatrical illusions of wonder. Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, this woodland sanctuary along the River Braan offers immersive walks through some of Britain's tallest trees, with glimpses of leaping salmon in autumn and hidden forest treasures. A masterpiece of Georgian landscape design, it remains one of Scotland's most enchanting natural attractions.
A brief summary to The Hermitage
- Old Military Rd, Dunkeld, PH8 0JR, GB
- +447548757060
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Budget
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 3 out of 5
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit in autumn to witness salmon leaping the Black Linn Falls as they migrate upstream to spawning grounds—a spectacular natural display that complements the designed landscape.
- Allow at least 1.5 to 2 hours to fully experience the site, including the walk through the Douglas Fir forest, exploration of Ossian's Hall, and time to contemplate the falls from multiple vantage points.
- Look up frequently—the Douglas Firs here are among Britain's tallest trees, and the canopy creates dramatic light and shadow effects throughout the day.
- Wear waterproof clothing or bring a rain jacket; the mist from the falls and woodland dampness are part of the authentic experience, and Scottish weather can change rapidly.
- Explore the marked trails beyond the main path to discover hidden features including a totem pole in the woods and opportunities to spot red squirrels in the tree tops.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By Car
From Edinburgh or Glasgow, take the A9 northbound toward Dunkeld. As you approach Dunkeld village, follow signs for The Hermitage, located just off the A9 on the left side as you travel north. The journey takes approximately 1.5 hours from Edinburgh or 2 hours from Glasgow. Two large car parks are available at the site entrance with a £2 per vehicle parking fee. Parking is on a level, tarmac surface with accessible spaces for visitors with mobility needs.
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By Train and Taxi
Dunkeld & Birnam Station offers regular rail connections from Perth, Edinburgh, and Glasgow. The station is approximately 3 kilometres from The Hermitage. From the station, arrange a taxi for the short journey to the site entrance, typically costing £8–12 and taking 10–15 minutes depending on traffic.
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By Bus
Stagecoach buses operate regular services between Perth and Dunkeld, with the journey taking approximately 45 minutes from Perth. From Dunkeld town centre, The Hermitage is approximately 1.5 kilometres away. Local taxi services or a short walk through the village can connect you to the car parks, though the walk includes some road sections without dedicated pavements.
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Walking from Dunkeld Village
From Dunkeld town centre, it is possible to walk to The Hermitage car parks via Old Military Road, a distance of approximately 1.5 kilometres. The route follows country roads with variable pavement availability and includes some gentle inclines. Walking takes 20–25 minutes and is suitable for those comfortable with road walking, though a vehicle is recommended for visitors with limited mobility or those carrying substantial gear.
The Hermitage location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Hermitage
A Theatrical Vision in the Wilderness
The Hermitage emerged from the creative ambitions of John Murray, 3rd Duke of Atholl, who envisioned this stretch of Perthshire forest as an elaborate pleasure garden in the mid-18th century. Built between 1757 and 1758, the site was designed to heighten guests' sense of thrill and amazement as they wandered through the landscape. The Duke's nephew, John, constructed Ossian's Hall as the centrepiece—a folly intended to provoke shock, surprise, and wonder. This theatrical approach to landscape design reflected the Romantic era's fascination with nature as a source of emotional intensity rather than mere aesthetic beauty. The original design incorporated the entire valley along the River Braan, extending approximately 1.5 kilometres from the River Tay confluence to Rumbling Bridge. The designed landscape encompassed 71 acres of carefully orchestrated woodland, with Hermitage Wood forming the natural backdrop. Early visitors recorded their reactions with mixed enthusiasm; Bishop Robert Forbes described the entrance in 1762 as featuring "two basins of water and small rocks with the additional beauty of fruit trees and flower-shrubs." The picturesque theorist William Gilpin, however, found certain elements "below the dignity of scenes like this," suggesting that the Duke's theatrical ambitions occasionally clashed with contemporary aesthetic sensibilities.Ossian's Hall: A Mirror-Lined Marvel
Ossian's Hall stands as the architectural heart of the Hermitage, a circular chamber ingeniously designed to manipulate perception and create optical illusions. The original interior featured walls lined entirely with mirrors that reflected the thunderous Black Linn Falls, creating the disorienting impression that water cascaded from every direction. A chandelier hung from the ceiling, and the room opened through glass doors onto a balcony overlooking the falls. In 1783, the 3rd Duke's son redecorated the space and renamed it after the legendary Gaelic poet Ossian, reinforcing the Romantic mystique surrounding the site. The building attracted celebrated visitors throughout the 19th century, including Queen Victoria, William Wordsworth, and the landscape painter J.M. Turner. Wordsworth's reaction proved particularly memorable—he reportedly "recoiled into the wilderness," finding the mirror effects excessively theatrical and artificial. Despite such criticism, Ossian's Hall became recognised as one of the most elaborate furnished decorative garden buildings in Scotland. In 1869, during a campaign to abolish tolls on the nearby Dunkeld Bridge, the building was partially destroyed by gunpowder in an act of protest. The National Trust for Scotland has since restored it to full operation, replacing the original glass mirrors with metallic ones and reinstalling the glass doors, preserving the original illusion while using modern materials.The Forest and Its Giants
The woodland clothing the hillsides north of Dunkeld was first planted by the 4th Duke of Atholl at the end of the 18th century, transforming a landscape that early Scottish travellers had repeatedly complained lacked tree cover. The old Caledonian pine forest had retreated to isolated pockets, driven from the hilltops by climate change and from the valleys by human activity. The Duke's ambitious reforestation programme introduced larch trees, brought to Scotland by William Menzies of Culdares in 1742. These original larches, descendants of seedlings that once grew in the hot houses at Dunkeld House, still survive in the area. Today, the Hermitage is dominated by record specimens of Douglas Fir, named after Perthshire-born botanist David Douglas who first collected the species. These giants rank among the tallest trees in Britain, creating a cathedral-like canopy that filters light onto the forest floor. The combination of Perthshire's climate and soil produces exceptional specimens of both deciduous and coniferous trees, making the woodland itself a living monument to 18th-century landscape vision and 19th-century forestry ambition.The River Braan and Black Linn Falls
The River Braan forms the lifeblood of the Hermitage experience, its waters creating the dramatic focal point that the entire landscape was designed to showcase. The Black Linn Falls represent the river's most spectacular feature—a thunderous cascade where water plunges into deep, foaming pools below. The falls' power and beauty shift seasonally; in autumn, visitors may witness salmon leaping upstream as they navigate toward spawning grounds further along the river, adding a dynamic natural spectacle to the landscape. The Hermitage Bridge, another addition to the Duke's scheme, provides access across the river and contributes to the choreographed journey through the site. The combination of rushing water, mist rising from the falls, and the roar of cascading torrents creates a multisensory experience that 18th-century designers deliberately cultivated to heighten emotional response. The earthy woodland scent mingling with the tang of pine needles and the spray from the falls engages visitors on multiple levels, fulfilling the original vision of the landscape as a place of immersion and wonder.A Living Heritage Landscape
Managed by the National Trust for Scotland, the Hermitage remains open year-round, accessible to visitors seeking both leisurely walks and more challenging woodland exploration. The site accommodates diverse abilities through specially designed routes for wheelchair users, while well-marked trails cater to walkers and cyclists of varying experience levels. A £2 parking fee helps maintain the grounds and supports conservation efforts. The approximately 1-kilometre walk from the car park to Ossian's Hall passes through magnificent Douglas Fir groves, offering an immersive transition from the modern world into the 18th-century designed landscape. The Hermitage represents a rare surviving example of Georgian pleasure ground design, where artistic vision, theatrical ambition, and natural beauty converge. Unlike many historic landscapes that have been lost or substantially altered, this site retains its essential character and purpose—to inspire wonder, provoke emotion, and celebrate the dramatic power of nature framed through human creativity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dunkeld Bridge
1.9 km
Historic Thomas Telford-designed stone bridge gracefully spanning the River Tay, linking Dunkeld’s rich heritage with Highland landscapes.
Birnam Oak
2.4 km
An ancient oak on the banks of the River Tay, believed to be the last survivor of Shakespeare’s Birnam Wood – a living piece of Scottish and literary history.
Perthshire Treks
8.8 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Perthshire with guided hiking tours from Perthshire Treks, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Ballathie House Hotel
14.6 km
Historic Scottish country house hotel with award-winning dining and tranquil river views on a vast Perthshire estate.
Dunfallandy Stone
16.0 km
A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.
Atholl Palace Hotel
17.3 km
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family
18.4 km
A solemn mausoleum nestled within Scone Palace grounds, honoring the minister and family amidst Scotland’s royal and religious heritage.
Clunie Memorial Arch
20.0 km
A solemn stone arch in Perth and Kinross honoring the men who sacrificed their lives building one of the UK's largest water tunnels.
Smeaton's Bridge
21.1 km
Historic 18th-century stone bridge spanning the River Tay in Perth, blending engineering brilliance with scenic charm and rich heritage.
Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust
21.1 km
Explore the Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust - a cultural gem showcasing Scotland's rich history and community heritage.
Inchbrakie Monument
22.6 km
A serene Scottish landmark honoring the vanished Inchbrakie estate, its ancient yew, and storied past.
Stone circle
24.0 km
Discover the ancient Neolithic Croft Moraig Stone Circle near Easdale, a serene and mysterious prehistoric landmark in Perthshire’s countryside.
Atholl Estates Office
28.0 km
Experience the enchanting Atholl Estates, home to the historic Atholl Castle, breathtaking landscapes, and thrilling outdoor adventures in the heart of Scotland.
Tullibardine Chapel
30.0 km
Discover Tullibardine Chapel, a captivating site in Auchterarder, where stunning architecture meets rich Scottish heritage in a tranquil setting.
Melville Monument
30.3 km
A commanding granite obelisk atop Dun More hill, honoring Henry Dundas with breathtaking views over Perthshire’s scenic landscapes.
Unmissable attractions to see
Pine Cone Point
1.0 km
A whimsical pine cone shelter crowning a forested hillside with sweeping views across the River Tay valley and Perthshire mountains.
Dunkeld Cathedral
1.7 km
A majestic blend of medieval architecture and sacred history set beside the River Tay, embodying centuries of Scottish faith and resilience.
Scottish Wildlife Trust - Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre & Wildlife Reserve
3.7 km
Discover the vibrant wildlife and iconic ospreys at Loch of the Lowes, a serene nature reserve with immersive viewing and family-friendly facilities.
Active Kids Adventure Park
12.7 km
A vibrant indoor and outdoor adventure park in Perthshire offering year-round family fun with play zones, farm animals, and scenic countryside charm.
Kinclaven Bluebell Woods
13.1 km
A free woodland sanctuary carpeted in violet-blue bluebells each spring, home to rare wildlife and Outlander's iconic Witness Trees.
Stanley Mills
13.7 km
Explore Stanley Mills, a captivating 18th-century cotton mill complex on the River Tay, blending industrial heritage with interactive exhibits and scenic riverside charm.
Explore Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire
14.4 km
Your friendly Highland gateway in Pitlochry – maps, advice, and local insights for exploring Perthshire’s mountains, lochs, and glens.
Meikleour Beech Hedge
15.6 km
Discover the awe-inspiring Meikleour Beech Hedge, the world's tallest and longest living hedge, a majestic natural monument steeped in Scottish history.
Heathergems
17.6 km
Discover Scotland’s only handcrafted jewellery made from real Highland heather, blending nature, art, and heritage in every unique piece.
Huntingtower Castle
18.2 km
Discover Huntingtower Castle’s twin towers, royal intrigues, and one of Scotland’s oldest painted ceilings near Perth.
Gloagburn Farm Shop
18.4 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly fun in the heart of Perthshire.
Scone Palace
18.4 km
Explore Scone Palace, the iconic Gothic Revival home where 42 Scottish kings were crowned amid stunning gardens and rich heritage.
Castle Menzies
18.8 km
Explore Castle Menzies, a 16th-century Highland stronghold rich with clan history, Jacobite tales, and stunning Perthshire vistas.
Faskally Forest
19.4 km
A historic Scottish woodland sanctuary by Loch Dunmore, famed for diverse trees, wildlife, and the magical Enchanted Forest light show.
The Enchanted Forest, Pitlochry
19.5 km
Scotland’s largest autumn event, The Enchanted Forest enchants visitors with immersive light, sound, and nature in magical Faskally Woods.
Essential places to dine
Z’s Bistro and Terrace Garden
2.0 km
Riverside Scottish bistro blending tradition with modern cuisine, set in the heart of Dunkeld's Perthshire landscape.
Uisge Bar & Restaurant
9.6 km
Cozy family-run restaurant in Murthly serving fresh, local Scottish dishes in a charming countryside setting with stunning views.
The Restaurant at Meikleour Arms
15.0 km
Classic 19th-century inn in scenic Meikleour serving award-winning Franco-Scottish country cuisine with estate-sourced produce in a warm, rustic setting.
The Anglers Inn
15.9 km
A cozy 3-star inn and pub in Guildtown offering fresh Scottish cuisine, warm hospitality, and peaceful rural charm near Perth.
Port-na-Craig Inn & Restaurant
17.3 km
Charming riverside inn offering authentic Scottish cuisine and stunning views of the River Tummel in the heart of Pitlochry.
Little's Restaurant
17.6 km
A long-standing riverside restaurant in Blairgowrie, serving generous portions of classic Scottish comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting.
The Bridge Restaurant of Pitlochry
17.6 km
Family-run Scottish dining with fresh, local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Pitlochry.
Fern Cottage Restaurant
17.6 km
A cozy stone cottage in Pitlochry serving Scottish classics with a Mediterranean twist, plus a separate vegan menu and warm, attentive service.
Victoria's Restaurant
17.6 km
A long-standing family-run eatery in Pitlochry, blending a relaxed coffee house by day with a chic bistro by evening, serving Scottish, British and Italian comfort food in a warm, open-fire setting.
The Maltings - Pub & Grill
18.2 km
A modern pub and grill in Perth offering flame-grilled classics, gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual dining.
Brown & Blacks
20.3 km
A welcoming restaurant in Scone offering hearty steaks, diverse breakfast options, and a relaxed atmosphere for all-day dining.
Broxden Farm - Dining & Carvery
20.3 km
A charming Scottish pub in Perth offering hearty carvery meals and warm hospitality in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Atholl Restaurant
20.8 km
A welcoming Perth eatery serving fresh, local Scottish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with a fine selection of wines and whiskies.
Deans Restaurant
20.8 km
Chic fine dining in Perth with quirky interiors and a focus on local Scottish produce, offering elegant tasting menus in a stylish setting.
Bothy Perth
21.0 km
Cozy Scottish restaurant and bar in Perth offering seasonal dishes, rustic event spaces, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Keepsake Scotland
17.8 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and handcrafted keepsakes in the heart of Pitlochry’s welcoming gift shop.
The Scottish Shop
18.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Highland heritage at The Scottish Shop, a charming independent store in the heart of Pitlochry.
Rustic Retro
20.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Scone at Rustic Retro, where history and charm meet.
1097
20.3 km
Explore a unique shopping destination in Perth, featuring handmade crafts and local treasures that showcase the beauty of Scottish artistry.
The New Wool Shop
20.9 km
A welcoming wool and needlecraft shop in Perth offering quality yarns, expert advice, and a vibrant crafting community.
Marians Of Perth
20.9 km
Marian's of Perth: Over 40 years of elegant, inclusive ladies' fashion and personalized service in the heart of Scotland’s historic city.
Loretta's Collections Boutique Perth
20.9 km
Discover stylish women's apparel at Loretta's Collections Boutique, Perth’s elegant destination for timeless and contemporary fashion.
Fun Junction
21.0 km
Independent toy shop in Perth offering quality toys, games, and educational supplies with friendly family-run service.
Evalucia
21.0 km
Discover curated fashion and accessories at Evalucia Boutique, Perth’s stylish destination for everyday and special occasion wear.
Precious Sparkle
21.1 km
Discover sustainable fashion, unique jewellery, and stylish homewares at Precious Sparkle, Perth’s boutique treasure trove of handpicked delights.
The Works
21.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery inspiring creativity and screen-free fun in the heart of Perth.
Begg Shoes
21.2 km
Discover timeless style and expert service at Begg Shoes, Perth’s go-to boutique for quality footwear and leather accessories.
The Perth Gift Card
21.2 km
Discover unique souvenirs and local crafts at The Perth Gift Card, a charming gift shop in Perth offering a vibrant selection of treasures.
Bonmarché
21.2 km
Stylish and affordable ladies’ fashion for mature women in the heart of Perth’s St Johns Centre.
Whispers Of The Past
21.2 km
Explore Whispers Of The Past, an antique shop in Perth filled with unique treasures and rich histories that transport you back in time.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Glover Arms
18.5 km
Historic Scottish pub with hearty fare, cozy fires, and a lively beer garden in Perth’s Huntingtower Park.
The Half Moon Bar
20.8 km
A friendly and spacious local pub in Perth offering great drinks, big sports screens, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
King James
20.9 km
Historic pub in Perth with hearty Scottish fare, lively atmosphere, and medieval roots beneath its floors.
The Foundry
20.9 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Perth offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a vibrant social atmosphere in the city center.
Ormonds
20.9 km
A friendly Perth pub serving hearty, affordable Scottish classics with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
The BANK Bar & Beer Garden
21.0 km
A vibrant gastropub and beer garden in Perth’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and lively socializing.
Sandeman
21.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant hospitality at Sandeman, Perth’s welcoming pub and restaurant in the iconic Sandeman Building.
The Caledonian
21.0 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Perth’s city center, offering great drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and authentic local charm.
Grayson's Wine Bar
21.0 km
Discover Grayson's Wine Bar in Perth for an elegant wine journey paired with seasonal dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
The Bee Bar
21.0 km
Authentic Scottish dive bar in Perth’s town centre, known for live local music, friendly vibe, and a welcoming community spirit.
BrewDog Perth
21.1 km
Discover BrewDog Perth, a vibrant craft beer bar with 28 taps, delicious pizzas, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere in Scotland’s cultural heart.
Robert Burns Lounge
21.1 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Perth with lively karaoke nights, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Silvery Tay
21.1 km
Historic charm meets local ales and live music in Perth’s beloved Silvery Tay pub on South Street.
The Bunker Lounge & Bar
21.2 km
A cozy and inviting lounge bar in Perth offering tapas, quality drinks, and a warm atmosphere for relaxed socializing.
That Bar Lounge
21.2 km
A vibrant city-centre lounge in Perth offering extensive whiskies, creative cocktails, and a friendly, pet-welcoming atmosphere since 1997.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
The Gig
17.1 km
Experience Blairgowrie’s vibrant nightlife at The Gig, a welcoming and affordable nightclub in the heart of this scenic Scottish town.
Ego Nightclub - Perth
21.0 km
Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Ego Nightclub, where quality music and positive energy unite after dark.
Loft Nightclub
21.2 km
Perth’s energetic nightclub with six bars, late-night dancing, and a lively social scene on South Street.
Club One
21.3 km
Experience Perth’s vibrant nightlife at Club One, a lively nightclub offering late-night and daytime parties in the city center.
Ice Factory Perth
22.1 km
Perth’s energetic nightclub and live music hotspot, blending dance, DJs, and vibrant weekend nights in a modern setting.
Afro Beats
40.4 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with pulsating Afrobeats, stylish vibes, and unforgettable late-night energy at Afro Beats nightclub.
AURA Nightclub
40.5 km
Dundee’s vibrant AURA Nightclub pulses with chart hits, themed parties, and a welcoming atmosphere for unforgettable nights out.
Backstage at The Green
40.5 km
Discover the heart of Kinross' nightlife at Backstage at The Green, a premier live music venue showcasing diverse musical talent.
Club Tropicana & Venga
40.5 km
Step into Dundee’s ultimate 80s nightclub for nostalgic beats, vibrant dance floors, and unforgettable retro nights at Club Tropicana & Venga.
Mundell Music
40.5 km
Discover the heartbeat of Kinross at Mundell Music, where unforgettable live performances and a welcoming atmosphere await every music lover.
Fat Sams
40.5 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife at Fat Sam's, a legendary club blending live music, themed rooms, and nostalgic beats in a lively urban setting.
Private Eyes
40.6 km
Experience Dundee’s vibrant nightlife with live pole dance shows, VIP lounges, and a lively atmosphere at Private Eyes nightclub.
Underground
40.7 km
Dundee’s vibrant nightclub and live music venue where dancing, live bands, and late-night fun come alive every weekend.
Decades Bar & Nightclub
41.0 km
Step back in time with Decades Bar & Nightclub, Dundee’s vibrant retro hotspot playing the best hits from the 70s, 80s, and 90s.
Pout Bar and Nightclub
41.0 km
Dundee's vibrant gay nightclub offering great music, welcoming vibes, and late-night dancing in the heart of the city.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Romantic
- Adventurous
- Scenic
- Unique
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Romantic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Art & Design
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Mindfulness
- Meditation Spot
- Spiritual / Energy Spot
- Myth & Legends
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
- Requires Hike
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
