Pine Cone Point
A whimsical pine cone shelter crowning a forested hillside with sweeping views across the River Tay valley and Perthshire mountains.
Pine Cone Point is a distinctive woodland viewpoint near Dunkeld in Perthshire, Scotland, crowned by a striking modern folly shaped like a giant pine cone. Accessible via a scenic forest walk through Craigvinean, this elevated vantage point rewards visitors with panoramic views across the River Tay valley and surrounding mountains. The site combines Victorian-era folly traditions with contemporary woodland management, offering a unique blend of heritage, nature, and architectural whimsy in the heart of Scotland's Big Tree Country.
A brief summary to Pine Cone Point
- Dunkeld, GB
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Free
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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
- Follow waymarked forest trails rather than relying on GPS mapping, as the marked routes are clearly signed and more reliable than digital navigation in dense woodland.
- Wear sturdy walking boots with good grip, as gravel paths can become slippery when wet and rocky sections require secure footing on the ascent.
- Visit on clear days for optimal views across the valley and mountains; misty or low-visibility conditions significantly reduce the visual reward of reaching the viewpoint.
- Allow extra time if combining Pine Cone Point with nearby attractions such as the Hermitage, Falls of Braan, or extended forest trail networks in Craigvinean.
- Use the benches positioned along the route to rest during the climb; the sustained incline is manageable but benefits from paced ascent rather than rushed effort.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car from Dunkeld town centre
Drive west from Dunkeld town centre on the A9 for approximately 1 mile. Turn off at the clearly marked sign for The Hermitage. The Craigvinean car park entrance appears after 250 meters on the right side of this access road. Parking is free at Craigvinean; alternatively, the nearby Hermitage car park charges a fee. Journey time approximately 5 minutes. The postcode PH8 0JR reaches the Craigvinean car park.
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Public transport from Dunkeld station
Dunkeld railway station is served by ScotRail services on the Perth to Inverness line, with regular daily connections from Edinburgh and Perth. From the station, the walk to Pine Cone Point is approximately 2 kilometers and takes 25-35 minutes on foot, following local roads and forest paths toward The Hermitage. Alternatively, local taxi services operate from the station for the short journey to Craigvinean car park, typically costing 8-12 GBP.
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Walking from The Hermitage car park
The Hermitage car park, operated by National Trust for Scotland, is located 1 mile west of Dunkeld on the A9 access road. Parking charges apply (typically 5-7 GBP). From this car park, the Inver Walk route incorporates Pine Cone Point as a detour, creating a 10.6-kilometer circuit that takes 2.5-3 hours. This route follows clear waymarked paths through forest and alongside the River Tay, offering multiple highlights beyond the viewpoint itself.
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Bus service to Dunkeld
Regular bus services connect Dunkeld to Perth and other regional centers via operators including Stagecoach. Journey times from Perth are approximately 45-60 minutes. From Dunkeld bus station, follow the same 2-kilometer walking route toward The Hermitage and Craigvinean as described for rail passengers, or use local taxi services for approximately 8-12 GBP to reach the car parks.
Pine Cone Point location weather suitability
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Cold Weather
Discover more about Pine Cone Point
A Modern Folly in Historic Woodland
Pine Cone Point crowns a forested hillside near Dunkeld with an unmistakable architectural statement: a giant pine cone shelter that serves as both viewpoint and sculptural landmark. This contemporary folly echoes the Victorian tradition of ornamental structures built purely for aesthetic pleasure and dramatic vistas. The shelter itself provides shelter from the elements while framing views across the River Tay valley, creating an unexpected marriage of practical design and whimsical form that delights visitors upon arrival.The Forest Setting and Walking Routes
The point sits within Craigvinean Forest, part of the extensive Tay Forest Park managed by Forestry and Land Scotland. The woodland was originally planted by the Dukes of Atholl and became a Victorian-era destination for those seeking dramatic forest walks and hidden viewpoints. Today, multiple walking routes lead through the varied forest landscape to reach Pine Cone Point. The main trail follows a gravel path with moderate slopes, winding through mixed woodland where red squirrels leave their distinctive nibbled pine cones as evidence of their presence. The forest canopy shifts seasonally, offering different perspectives and lighting conditions throughout the year.Panoramic Views and Landscape Significance
From the elevated position at Pine Cone Point, the landscape unfolds in all directions. The River Tay dominates the view, flowing through its broad valley with Dunkeld visible downstream. To the north and west, mountain ranges rise toward the Highlands, creating a sense of depth and scale that captures the grandeur of Perthshire's geography. On clear days, the vista extends across multiple ridgelines and forest blocks, revealing the layered topography that makes this region distinctive. The viewpoint's height and clearing provide unobstructed sightlines rarely available from lower elevations in the forest.Access and Walking Experience
The journey to Pine Cone Point typically begins at either the Craigvinean car park or the nearby Hermitage car park, both accessed from the A9 corridor. The walk involves sustained but manageable climbing through forest terrain, with gravel paths and some rocky sections creating varied underfoot conditions. Benches positioned along the route offer rest points for those needing to pause during the ascent. The total walking time ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on the chosen route and individual pace. The physical demand remains moderate rather than extreme, making the site accessible to reasonably fit walkers of varying ages and experience levels.Seasonal and Weather Considerations
The forest environment creates distinct seasonal experiences. Spring brings emerging woodland growth and bird activity, summer offers full canopy cover and lush undergrowth, autumn transforms the landscape with changing colors and abundant fallen pine cones, and winter reveals the forest structure while potentially presenting muddy or icy conditions. The gravel paths generally drain well, though wet weather can create slippery sections on steeper slopes. The exposed viewpoint at the summit offers no shelter from wind or rain, making the pine cone structure's protective design particularly valuable during inclement weather.Heritage and Context
Pine Cone Point exists within a landscape rich in historical significance. The Hermitage, a nearby National Trust for Scotland property, preserves Victorian-era follies and dramatic river gorge scenery. Niel Gow's Oak, a historic tree associated with the renowned Scottish fiddler, lies along nearby walking routes. The broader Dunkeld area contains multiple heritage sites including historic bridges, churches, and monuments. Pine Cone Point represents a contemporary addition to this tradition of creating distinctive landmarks within the natural landscape, maintaining the Victorian impulse to combine nature with architectural intervention.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Dunkeld Bridge
2.5 km
Historic Thomas Telford-designed stone bridge gracefully spanning the River Tay, linking Dunkeld’s rich heritage with Highland landscapes.
Birnam Oak
3.1 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
8.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Perthshire with guided hiking tours from Perthshire Treks, perfect for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Dunfallandy Stone
15.1 km
A 1,200-year-old Pictish cross-slab revealing ancient artistry and the clash of pagan and Christian worlds.
Ballathie House Hotel
15.5 km
Historic Scottish country house hotel with award-winning dining and tranquil river views on a vast Perthshire estate.
Atholl Palace Hotel
16.4 km
Historic Victorian elegance meets Highland tranquility at Atholl Palace Hotel, a luxurious retreat in the heart of Pitlochry.
Clunie Memorial Arch
19.1 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.
Tomb Of The Minister Of Scone & Family
19.4 km
A solemn mausoleum nestled within Scone Palace grounds, honoring the minister and family amidst Scotland’s royal and religious heritage.
Smeaton's Bridge
22.1 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
22.1 km
Explore the Perth & Kinross Heritage Trust - a cultural gem showcasing Scotland's rich history and community heritage.
Inchbrakie Monument
22.9 km
A serene Scottish landmark honoring the vanished Inchbrakie estate, its ancient yew, and storied past.
Stone circle
23.3 km
Discover the ancient Neolithic Croft Moraig Stone Circle near Easdale, a serene and mysterious prehistoric landmark in Perthshire’s countryside.
St Serf's Church & Dupplin Cross
28.0 km
Explore St Serf's Church & Dupplin Cross, a stunning medieval church in Dunning, showcasing exquisite Pictish art and a serene atmosphere steeped in history.
Maggie Wall Witch Monument
28.4 km
A haunting 20-foot stone monument near Dunning commemorating the mysterious Maggie Wall and all victims of Scotland’s witch hunts.
Falls of Bruar
30.0 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of the Falls of Bruar in Perthshire, where nature meets history amidst stunning waterfalls and serene hiking trails.
Unmissable attractions to see
The Hermitage
1.0 km
Explore towering Douglas firs, dramatic waterfalls, and historic Ossian’s Hall in Scotland’s enchanting Hermitage woodland near Dunkeld.
Dunkeld Cathedral
2.2 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
4.1 km
Discover the vibrant wildlife and iconic ospreys at Loch of the Lowes, a serene nature reserve with immersive viewing and family-friendly facilities.
Explore Pitlochry & Highland Perthshire
13.5 km
Your friendly Highland gateway in Pitlochry – maps, advice, and local insights for exploring Perthshire’s mountains, lochs, and glens.
Active Kids Adventure Park
13.7 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
14.0 km
A free woodland sanctuary carpeted in violet-blue bluebells each spring, home to rare wildlife and Outlander's iconic Witness Trees.
Stanley Mills
14.7 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.
Meikleour Beech Hedge
16.4 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
16.7 km
Discover Scotland’s only handcrafted jewellery made from real Highland heather, blending nature, art, and heritage in every unique piece.
Castle Menzies
17.9 km
Explore Castle Menzies, a 16th-century Highland stronghold rich with clan history, Jacobite tales, and stunning Perthshire vistas.
Faskally Forest
18.4 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
18.5 km
Scotland’s largest autumn event, The Enchanted Forest enchants visitors with immersive light, sound, and nature in magical Faskally Woods.
Bolfracks House & Gardens
18.8 km
Historic Scottish Baronial estate with exquisite gardens and panoramic Tay valley views, perfect for luxury holidays and special occasions.
Huntingtower Castle
19.1 km
Discover Huntingtower Castle’s twin towers, royal intrigues, and one of Scotland’s oldest painted ceilings near Perth.
Gloagburn Farm Shop
19.3 km
Experience authentic Scottish farm life with fresh homemade food, local produce, and family-friendly fun in the heart of Perthshire.
Essential places to dine
Z’s Bistro and Terrace Garden
2.5 km
Riverside Scottish bistro blending tradition with modern cuisine, set in the heart of Dunkeld's Perthshire landscape.
Uisge Bar & Restaurant
10.5 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
15.8 km
Classic 19th-century inn in scenic Meikleour serving award-winning Franco-Scottish country cuisine with estate-sourced produce in a warm, rustic setting.
Port-na-Craig Inn & Restaurant
16.4 km
Charming riverside inn offering authentic Scottish cuisine and stunning views of the River Tummel in the heart of Pitlochry.
The Bridge Restaurant of Pitlochry
16.6 km
Family-run Scottish dining with fresh, local ingredients and a cozy atmosphere in the heart of Pitlochry.
Fern Cottage Restaurant
16.7 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
16.7 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 Anglers Inn
16.9 km
A cozy 3-star inn and pub in Guildtown offering fresh Scottish cuisine, warm hospitality, and peaceful rural charm near Perth.
Little's Restaurant
18.1 km
A long-standing riverside restaurant in Blairgowrie, serving generous portions of classic Scottish comfort food in a warm, family-friendly setting.
The Maltings - Pub & Grill
19.2 km
A modern pub and grill in Perth offering flame-grilled classics, gluten-free options, and a welcoming atmosphere for casual dining.
Broxden Farm - Dining & Carvery
21.2 km
A charming Scottish pub in Perth offering hearty carvery meals and warm hospitality in a cozy, family-friendly setting.
Brown & Blacks
21.3 km
A welcoming restaurant in Scone offering hearty steaks, diverse breakfast options, and a relaxed atmosphere for all-day dining.
Atholl Restaurant
21.8 km
A welcoming Perth eatery serving fresh, local Scottish dishes in a relaxed atmosphere with a fine selection of wines and whiskies.
Deans Restaurant
21.8 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
22.0 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
16.9 km
Discover authentic Scottish souvenirs and handcrafted keepsakes in the heart of Pitlochry’s welcoming gift shop.
The Scottish Shop
17.0 km
Discover authentic Scottish gifts and Highland heritage at The Scottish Shop, a charming independent store in the heart of Pitlochry.
Rustic Retro
21.2 km
Discover timeless antiques and vintage treasures in the heart of Scone at Rustic Retro, where history and charm meet.
1097
21.3 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
21.9 km
A welcoming wool and needlecraft shop in Perth offering quality yarns, expert advice, and a vibrant crafting community.
Marians Of Perth
21.9 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
21.9 km
Discover stylish women's apparel at Loretta's Collections Boutique, Perth’s elegant destination for timeless and contemporary fashion.
Fun Junction
21.9 km
Independent toy shop in Perth offering quality toys, games, and educational supplies with friendly family-run service.
Evalucia
22.0 km
Discover curated fashion and accessories at Evalucia Boutique, Perth’s stylish destination for everyday and special occasion wear.
Precious Sparkle
22.1 km
Discover sustainable fashion, unique jewellery, and stylish homewares at Precious Sparkle, Perth’s boutique treasure trove of handpicked delights.
The Works
22.1 km
Affordable books, crafts, toys, and stationery inspiring creativity and screen-free fun in the heart of Perth.
Begg Shoes
22.1 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
22.2 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
22.2 km
Stylish and affordable ladies’ fashion for mature women in the heart of Perth’s St Johns Centre.
Hell Yeah
22.2 km
Discover Perth’s colourful vegan gift shop blending indie creativity with eco-friendly, cruelty-free treasures on High Street.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Glover Arms
19.4 km
Historic Scottish pub with hearty fare, cozy fires, and a lively beer garden in Perth’s Huntingtower Park.
The Half Moon Bar
21.8 km
A friendly and spacious local pub in Perth offering great drinks, big sports screens, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
King James
21.8 km
Historic pub in Perth with hearty Scottish fare, lively atmosphere, and medieval roots beneath its floors.
Ormonds
21.9 km
A friendly Perth pub serving hearty, affordable Scottish classics with generous portions and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Foundry
21.9 km
A lively pub and restaurant in Perth offering hearty fare, friendly service, and a vibrant social atmosphere in the city center.
The BANK Bar & Beer Garden
22.0 km
A vibrant gastropub and beer garden in Perth’s city centre, perfect for casual drinks and lively socializing.
Sandeman
22.0 km
Historic charm meets vibrant hospitality at Sandeman, Perth’s welcoming pub and restaurant in the iconic Sandeman Building.
The Caledonian
22.0 km
A vibrant, friendly pub in Perth’s city center, offering great drinks, a welcoming atmosphere, and authentic local charm.
Victoria Inn
22.0 km
Discover the warmth and hospitality of Victoria Inn, a cozy bar in Coupar Angus, perfect for unwinding and enjoying local brews.
The Bee Bar
22.0 km
Authentic Scottish dive bar in Perth’s town centre, known for live local music, friendly vibe, and a welcoming community spirit.
Grayson's Wine Bar
22.0 km
Discover Grayson's Wine Bar in Perth for an elegant wine journey paired with seasonal dishes in a cozy, inviting atmosphere.
BrewDog Perth
22.1 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
22.1 km
Cozy Scottish pub in Perth with lively karaoke nights, friendly service, and a warm community atmosphere.
The Silvery Tay
22.1 km
Historic charm meets local ales and live music in Perth’s beloved Silvery Tay pub on South Street.
The Bunker Lounge & Bar
22.1 km
A cozy and inviting lounge bar in Perth offering tapas, quality drinks, and a warm atmosphere for relaxed socializing.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Adventurous
- Tranquil
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunrise Spots
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Architectural Shots
- Scenic Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Low Impact
- Protected Area
- Nature Reserve
- Wildlife Habitat
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Adventure Photo Shoot
- Day Trip
- Cultural Heritage
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Requires Hike
- Physically Demanding
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
