A new guidebook for the popular River Tay Way was launched in Aberfeldy today by Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust (PKCT).

Developed and promoted by PKCT, the River Tay Way is a long-distance route between Kenmore in Highland Perthshire and the cities of Perth and Dundee, passing through some of the finest countryside that Perthshire has to offer and linking the communities of Kenmore, Aberfeldy, Dunkeld and Birnam, Murthly, Stanley and Luncarty.

The route caters for walkers and cyclists with separate designated paths following the course of Scotland’s longest river. The walking route follows existing designated core paths, while the cycling route follows National Cycle Routes and links Perth and Dundee. Kayakers, paddleboarders, canoeists and even swimmers can also tackle the route on water.

 There is a rich abundance of natural, built, historical and sporting heritage along the route waiting to be discovered, as well as visitor accommodation, shops and places to eat and drink, ensuring that those using the River Tay Way can make the most of their trip.

The new guidebook provides detailed route descriptions for walkers and cyclists as well as information on distances, terrain and food and drink options, and the heritage and history of the landscapes and communities along the River Tay Way.

It is the latest in a series of guides published by award-winning Edinburgh-based Rucksack Readers which specialises in guidebooks for long-distance walkers and cyclists. The books are designed to be robust and rucksack-friendly, are packed with colourful photographs and useful information, and are printed on rainproof paper.

Rucksack Readers founder and author of the River Tay Way guidebook Jacquetta Megarry said:

“The River Tay Way is a new trail that appeals to both walkers and cyclists. The route starts at Loch Tay and passes through grand scenery, with ancient woodlands, railway heritage and prehistoric remains. There is also an abundance of wildlife along the route as the Tay system is home to salmon, red squirrels and many other species.

Whether you want to walk 50 miles to Perth, cycle 65 miles to Dundee, or use Scotland's longest river for part of your journey by boat or kayak, the route divides easily into manageable sections and you can stay in welcoming villages with hearty refreshments.

This guidebook can help you plan your route and make the most out of your journey.”

 

Andrew Barrie, PKCT’s Strategic Routes Officer, said:

"We are delighted to launch this new guidebook for the River Tay Way. The active travel routes take users through some of the finest countryside in Perthshire from the shores of Loch Tay to the new museum in Perth, with the road route travelling onto the V&A in Dundee. “There are lots of wonderful places to visit, many of which are highlighted in this book, and we would encourage everyone - whether they are local to the area or visiting - to take their time exploring this wonderful part of Scotland.”

Cycle and bikepacking guide Rosie Baxendine is a PKCT Ambassador. She added: 

“The River Tay Way is a fantastic addition to the offering we have here in Perthshire and this new guidebook is a valuable resource for anyone who wants to explore the routes, appreciating the smaller details as well as the stunning landscapes. Speaking as both a keen cyclist and a local tour guide, this book is an excellent way of making the area more accessible for those who want to appreciate the best of the River Tay corridor.

Cycling and walking, as well as being out and about in nature, have proven health benefits both for physical and mental health and wellbeing. Being able to access active travel for leisure routes in a way that suits a range of abilities and budgets is something that we are lucky to have in this area, and it’s the work of organisations like Perth and Kinross Countryside Trust that make it possible.”

Guidebooks can be purchased HERE on the Rucksack Reader website, or on Amazon.