Explore the Enchanting Trails of The Hermitage
Discover the breathtaking beauty and rich history of The Hermitage, a national forest in Scotland, perfect for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Nestled in the picturesque Scottish Highlands, The Hermitage is a breathtaking national forest that offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and outdoor adventure. Known for its lush greenery, stunning waterfalls, and ancient trees, it's a must-visit for anyone seeking a peaceful escape into nature.
A brief summary to The Hermitage
- Old Military Rd, Dunkeld, PH8 0JR, GB
- +441350728641
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
- Bring a camera to capture the stunning waterfalls and ancient trees.
- Wear comfortable shoes, as the trails can be uneven and require some hiking.
- Check the weather ahead of time and dress in layers, as conditions can change quickly.
- Make sure to bring snacks and water, as there are limited facilities nearby.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, head towards Dunkeld. From Perth, take the A9 heading north. After approximately 15 miles, take the exit toward Dunkeld (A923). Follow the signs to Dunkeld and continue onto the B867. After entering Dunkeld, follow the signs for The Hermitage, which is located on Old Military Road. There is parking available at the site, and be aware that there may be a small fee for parking.
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Public Transportation
If you prefer public transportation, take a train from Perth to Dunkeld & Birnam station. Trains run regularly, and the journey takes about 30 minutes. Once you arrive at Dunkeld & Birnam station, exit the station and walk towards the village of Dunkeld. Follow the signs for The Hermitage, which is approximately a 20-minute walk from the train station. Alternatively, you can take a local taxi from the station directly to The Hermitage for convenience.
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Walking
For those already in Dunkeld, you can enjoy a scenic walk to The Hermitage. Start at the village center and head towards the River Tay. Follow the path along the river, which will lead you to The Hermitage. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take about 30-40 minutes. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes and enjoy the beautiful landscape along the way.
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Bicycle
Cycling is also a great way to reach The Hermitage. You can rent a bike in Dunkeld and follow the designated bike paths to Old Military Road. The ride is about 2 miles from the village center and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Be cautious of other road users and enjoy the fresh air.
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.
