Highland Gems: Dunkeld, The Hermitage & Blair Atholl Castle from Edinburgh

Experience a remarkable journey from Edinburgh into the wooded landscapes of Highland Perthshire, where history, nature, and legacy blend into one unforgettable exploration. Discover the story of the Dukes of Atholl, famously known as the Planting Dukes, whose ambitious vision transformed the rugged hills of Perthshire into the flourishing forests admired today. Learn how these aristocratic landowners introduced large scale tree planting that reshaped the Highlands and created the region known as Big Tree Country. Explore charming villages, peaceful riversides, and historic landmarks while traveling through scenery that gradually shifts from gentle farmland to dramatic Highland forests and valleys.

Enjoy time in the historic village of Dunkeld, once an important spiritual centre of Scotland and home to impressive cathedral ruins beside the River Tay. Discover the legendary Parent Larch, the last surviving tree from the original group planted centuries ago that helped spread millions of larch trees across the surrounding hills. Learn about the fascinating landscapes of The Hermitage, where towering trees and woodland paths lead to the spectacular Black Linn Falls viewed from Ossians Hall. Explore Blair Castle, the ancestral home of the Clan Murray, where grand rooms, historic collections, and peaceful gardens reveal centuries of Highland heritage. Experience tranquil walks through Diana’s Grove and Hercules Garden, where some of the tallest trees in Britain and beautifully designed Georgian landscapes highlight the enduring vision of the Planting Dukes.