The Enchanting Beauty of The Hermitage
Discover breathtaking landscapes and towering trees at The Hermitage, a national forest in Dunkeld, perfect for hiking and exploring nature's beauty.
Nestled in the scenic countryside of Dunkeld, The Hermitage offers stunning forest trails and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Explore the rich biodiversity, ancient trees, and serene landscapes that create an idyllic escape into nature.
A brief summary to The Hermitage
- Old Military Rd, Dunkeld, PH8 0JR, GB
- +441350728641
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable walking shoes to fully enjoy the various hiking trails.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning views, especially at Ossian's Hall.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and beautiful light.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy among the ancient trees and tranquil surroundings.
- Check the weather before your visit, as conditions can change rapidly in the forest.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Kinross-shire, take the A977 road heading north. Continue on the A977 until you reach the A9. Merge onto the A9 heading northbound. After approximately 15 miles, take the exit towards Dunkeld. Follow the signs for Dunkeld and then continue on the B898. After a few minutes, you will reach Old Military Road, where The Hermitage is located. There is a car park available, and parking may incur a small fee.
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Public Transportation
From Kinross-shire, you can take a bus to Perth. Once in Perth, transfer to a bus heading to Dunkeld. The journey from Kinross to Perth usually takes about 30 minutes, and then the bus from Perth to Dunkeld takes around 25 minutes. Upon arriving in Dunkeld, you will need to walk approximately 1 mile (about 20 minutes) along the B898 to reach The Hermitage. Make sure to check the local bus schedules for exact times and fares.
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Taxi
For a more direct option, consider taking a taxi from anywhere in Kinross-shire. This is particularly convenient if you're traveling with a group or have luggage. The taxi ride will take approximately 30 minutes, depending on traffic, and costs can vary, so it's advisable to confirm the fare before starting your journey.
Discover more about The Hermitage
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.