The Hermitage

The Hermitage was created by the Dukes of Atholl 250 years ago as an extension of the gardens of Dunkeld House. An impressive stand of Douglas firs creates a cathedral-like atmosphere as you walk alongside the waterfalls, rapids and swirling pools of the River Braan towards Ossian’s Hall and Bridge. In spring, carpets of snowdrops give way to bluebells, and in autumn you can witness the amazing sight of the salmon jumping up the falls on their way to spawn - quite a sight to behold!

For more information, click here.

Birnam Oak

The sole survivor of the Birnam Wood that played a significant part in Shakespeare’s Macbeth, the Birnam Oak is believed to be part of the wood from which Malcolm's soldiers cut branches to disguise their attack on Macbeth at Dunsinane Hill. Today, the gnarled and ancient oak certainly looks medieval – its lower branches rest wearily on crutches and the majority of its trunk is hollow. It can be found on the Birnam Riverside Path, which runs along the banks of the River Tay.

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Dunkeld House Tree Trail

Dunkeld House was once the home of the ‘Planting Dukes' of Atholl, who changed Perthshire forever in the 18^th century.  You’re invited to come and travel through time, marvel at the vision of the Dukes, and to learn how these woods are taking on a new role for the future.

Dunkeld House Hotel's grounds are open to the public and you are welcome to walk in them.  You are also welcome to visit the hotel bar or lounge for a reviving drink or delicious afternoon tea. Whether it is the trees that bring you here, the river, the birds, or the red squirrels, the grounds are yours to explore.

For more information, download the Dunkeld House Tree Trail leaflet.

Craigvinean and Pine Cone Point

Craigvinean – Gaelic for ‘crag of the goats’ – is one of Scotland’s oldest managed forests. Created by the 3^rd Duke of Atholl in the 18^th century with larch seed brought from the Alps, the Duke allegedly used a canon to scatter the seeds onto inaccessible cliffs. The views from Pine Cone Point across the Tay to Dunkeld and to the mountains in the north are quite spectacular.

For more information, click here.