Embark on a journey to Perthshire and Kinross, where the landscape is stitched with lochs and mountains, offering a playground for adventurers and tranquillity seekers alike. Savour the local flavours at a cosy gastropub, or sample traditional Scottish fare at a farmers' market. Get your heart racing with white-water rafting, or take a serene woodland walk. Discover the unique fact that Queen's View offers a vista once favoured by Queen Victoria herself. For a memorable escape, whether it's a cosy couple's retreat, a family escapade, or a mates' holiday, opting for a lodge or cabin stay is unbeatable.
Why Take Your 2025 Lodge Break in Perthshire And Kinross Shire?
Perthshire and Kinross Shire is a gem in the heart of Scotland, offering a blend of lush landscapes, rolling hills and serene lochs. It's a place where history is etched into every glen and castle. For 2025, the area is buzzing with the return of the Perth Festival of the Arts and the Blair Castle International Horse Trials & Country Fair. Lodges here provide a more intimate, nature-immersed experience compared to hotels, with the freedom to explore at your own pace. The region is unique for its blend of outdoor activities and cultural sites, like the famous Pitlochry Festival Theatre or the historic Scone Palace, where Scottish kings were once crowned.
If you're visiting Perthshire And Kinross Shire with kids
Absolutely, Perthshire And Kinross Shire is a playground for children. They can marvel at the Beatrix Potter Exhibition in Birnam, get hands-on at the Scottish Crannog Centre, or splash around at Loch Tay. Lodge breaks are ideal for families, offering space and flexibility, with many having outdoor areas for kids to play. Plus, the self-catering aspect means you can keep to your own schedule – a lifesaver with little ones.
- Comfortable walking shoes for exploring
- Waterproof jackets – the weather can be unpredictable
- Swimwear for loch-side fun or hotel pools
- Binoculars for wildlife spotting
- A backpack for day trips
- Outdoor games for garden playtime
- Snacks for energy boosts during adventures
Pet Friendly Perthshire And Kinross Shire Adventures
Perthshire And Kinross Shire is a haven for pet owners. Many lodges welcome pets and some even have enclosed gardens. For a bite to eat, The Old Mill Inn in Pitlochry and The Taybank in Dunkeld are just a couple of the pet-friendly pubs in the area. When you're visiting with dogs, it's a good idea to look for accommodation with plenty of walking space nearby. Also, remember to pack a doggy towel for those inevitable wet and muddy paws!
Dog walking ideas in Perthshire And Kinross Shire
| Route |
Distance (miles) |
Scenery |
Postcode |
| Queen's View Trail |
1 |
Lake and forest |
PH16 5NR |
| The Hermitage |
1.5 |
Woodland and waterfall |
PH8 0JR |
| Birks of Aberfeldy |
2 |
River and gorge |
PH15 2BJ |
| Loch Leven Heritage Trail |
13 (circular) |
Lake and countryside |
KY13 9HD |
| Ben Vrackie |
6 (return) |
Mountain views |
PH16 5QQ |
Romantic Breaks for Couples
If you're looking to rekindle the flames with a romantic getaway, Perthshire And Kinross Shire is a top pick. Couples can find a variety of lodges offering pamper packs to enhance the romance. Imagine sipping champagne in a hot tub under the stars, surrounded by the tranquil beauty of the Scottish countryside. For a touch of indulgence, check out lodges that include spa experiences, allowing you and your partner to unwind and relax. Dining out is also a treat, with many lodges boasting on-site restaurants serving up delicious meals in a cozy setting, perfect for a dinner date.
Local Cuisine and Dining Experiences
Perthshire And Kinross Shire serves up traditional Scottish fare with a modern twist. Famous dishes include haggis, neeps and tatties and locally sourced venison. For a hearty meal, head to The Bothy, known for its welcoming atmosphere and scrumptious food. Families will love The Pitcairngreen Inn, offering a warm environment and dishes to please all ages. Couples seeking a more intimate dining experience should try 63 Tay Street, where the focus is on local, seasonal produce crafted into exquisite meals.
For a good night out
Whether you're after a lively pub or a tranquil evening, Perthshire And Kinross Shire has you covered. For a traditional Scottish pub experience, The Moulin Inn is a favorite, with its own microbrewery and user-recommended ales. If you're looking for live music and a vibrant atmosphere, The Green Room is the place to be. They host regular gigs and serve a great selection of drinks.
Fishing
Perthshire And Kinross Shire is a fisherman's paradise, offering a variety of serene spots teeming with aquatic life. Here's a list of the main fishing lakes and facilities:
- Loch Leven (KY13 9HD) - Famous for its brown trout.
- Loch Tay (PH15 2HX) - Known for salmon and trout fishing.
- Loch Rannoch (PH17 2QA) - Ideal for catching pike.
- River Tay (PH1 4DZ) - Offers excellent salmon fishing opportunities.
- Loch Earn (PH6 2NL) - Great for rainbow trout.
Outdoor Adventures
For thrill-seekers, Perthshire And Kinross Shire is a hub of outdoor activities. Nae Limits Adventure Centre (PH9 0LG) offers everything from canyoning to white-water rafting, with prices starting around £35 per person. Seasonal opening times vary, so check ahead. Alyth Bike Park (PH11 8DX) is another hotspot, catering to mountain biking enthusiasts with trails for all skill levels. Expect to pay around £20 for a day pass.
Shopping and Souvenirs
| Name |
Type |
On Offer |
Postcode |
| House of Bruar |
Luxury Shopping |
Scottish products, clothing, art |
PH18 5TW |
| Perth Farmers' Market |
Local Produce |
Fresh food, crafts |
PH2 8NS |
| Aberfeldy Watermill |
Bookshop & Gallery |
Books, art, gifts |
PH15 2AF |
| Loch Leven's Larder |
Farm Shop |
Local produce, homeware |
KY13 9HD |
| St John's Shopping Centre |
Shopping Centre |
High street brands, eateries |
PH1 5UB |
Whether you're angling for a quiet fishing trip, seeking an adrenaline rush, or looking to enjoy a romantic retreat, lodges in Perthshire And Kinross Shire offer a diverse range of experiences to make your stay memorable.
Top lodge breaks for 2026 in Perthshire And Kinross Shire
Driving Distance: About 58 minutes (39.96 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 8 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Tummel Valley Holiday Park sits in Pitlochry, surrounded by the green landscapes of the Scottish Highlands. A riverside patio sets the tone, and the park mixes a peaceful setting with plenty of things to do.
Who will love these lodges? It suits families, couples and solo travellers, with sleeping for up to 8. Selected caravans take pets, and several are accessible, so there's a good spread of choice.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? The Boathouse Bar & Restaurant serves meals, drinks and snacks on a patio overlooking the river. You'll also find an indoor pool with a sauna or steam room, mini-golf, a multi-sports court for basketball or football, an adventure playground and an amusement arcade. The Little Lending Library is a nice touch for bedtime reading.
What's nearby? From the middle of Perthshire and Kinross it's about 58 minutes' drive, roughly 40 miles. Loch Tummel is a stone's throw away for walks and cycling, and Pitlochry Festival Theatre, Blair Castle and local whisky distilleries are close by, with the Cairngorms National Park within reach.
Accommodation options: The Bronze Premium 1 is a cosy pick for two, while the Superior 2 sleeps 4 with an ensuite and decking. Families can step up to the Prestige 3, which sleeps 6 with parking, an ensuite and decking. Pet-friendly versions of selected units are available, and there are no hot tubs.
Driving Distance: About 17 minutes (10.50 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Beech Hedge is surrounded by picturesque countryside in the heart of rural Perthshire, close to the rivers Tay and Isla. The park has views of the Grampian Mountains and makes a central base for exploring this lovely part of Scotland.
Who will love these lodges? Lodges and caravans sleep up to 6, so couples, families and small groups are all catered for. Selected units welcome dogs, which makes it a good pick for dog owners, and some have hot tubs.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? It's a small, simple park, and the main on-site facility is a launderette, available on all dates for a charge. Expect decking to the front and a garden area to the back with outdoor furniture, so there's space to sit out and take in the views.
What's nearby? From the heart of Perthshire and Kinross-shire, it's about 17 minutes' drive, roughly 10.5 miles. The fair city of Perth is just 10 miles away.
Accommodation options: Choose from Bracken Log Lodge, Aspen Log Lodge or Willow Lodge, or the Grampian and Angus Caravans. Some lodges have hot tubs, while Kinclaven, Tay Lodge and Beech Lodge don't, and selected units are pet friendly. Expect an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, with double glazing and heating throughout.
Driving Distance: About 31 minutes (22.87 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 8 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Braidhaugh Park sits on the banks of the River Earn, with rolling hills and riverside views all around. It's a peaceful countryside escape, and the market town of Crieff is just a short stroll away.
Who will love these lodges? Families, couples and friends all fit, with units sleeping up to 8. Selected units welcome pets, and some have a private hot tub, including the superior glamping pods.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? Fishing along the River Earn is one of the draws, and walking trails start right on your doorstep. There's a shop for everyday essentials, a launderette and a bar that's open daily until 4:30pm, plus a public play area next to the park. Wi-Fi is available at a charge.
What's nearby? From the centre of Perthshire and Kinross-shire, the park is about 31 minutes' drive, around 23 miles. Crieff has cosy cafés, independent shops, restaurants and bars, and the Glenturret Distillery, Scotland's oldest working distillery, is well worth a visit. Scone Palace is nearby, and Go Ape Aberfoyle, with its 400-yard zip wire, is under an hour away.
Accommodation options: The Superior glamping pod comes with either a wood-fired or an electric hot tub, and the Riverside Lodge 1 bed suits a couple. For families, the Caravan 3 Bedroom (Pet) has the most room, and selected units take pets.
Driving Distance: About 36 minutes (23.64 miles) | Sleeps: Up to 6 | Pet friendly? Yes
What to expect: Ruthven Falls sits on the banks of the River Isla, just minutes from Blairgowrie on the Perthshire and Angus border. Part of the Evermore Luxury Lodge Collection, it's a peaceful riverside retreat with lovely countryside views.
Who will love these lodges? Couples and families will both be comfortable, in two- and three-bedroom lodges sleeping up to 6. Private hot tubs are a big part of the appeal, and selected lodges welcome dogs.
What can you do here? Anything onsite? A riverside walk loops around the park, and you can fish on its private stretch of the River Isla. Back at your lodge, there's a large veranda with outdoor furniture for taking in the views.
What's nearby? Perth is about 36 minutes' drive away, roughly 23.5 miles, and Dundee, Scone Palace and Glamis Castle are all within reach. Golfers can play Alyth, Strathmore or Blairgowrie, walkers have The Cateran Trail, The Hermitage and Ben Gulabin, and Glenshee Ski Centre isn't far either. Pubs, restaurants and shops are 5 to 10 minutes' drive away.
Accommodation options: Choose from the Earn, Esk and Tweed Lodge VIP, each available as a pet-friendly lodge. A typical lodge has a four-poster double with an en suite slipper bath and rainfall shower, a feature fireplace and a kitchen with a dishwasher and wine cooler. Prices start from £655.
Don't Miss These Fantastic Days Out In Perthshire And Kinross Shire
The Enchanted Forest
- Opening Times: Seasonal (usually October)
- Prices: Vary, advance booking recommended
- Postcode: PH16 5BN
- Est. time required: 1-2 hours
- Nearest parking: Pitlochry town centre, with shuttle service
The Enchanted Forest is a dazzling sound and light show set in Faskally Wood. It's a hit with families and couples alike, especially those looking for a magical evening out. The forest comes alive with lights, music and interactive installations. There's always something new each year, making it a fresh experience for repeat visitors. The best time to visit is at dusk when the lights begin to truly sparkle. Tip: dress warmly and book tickets well in advance, as this popular event sells out quickly.
Web: www.enchantedforest.org.uk
Blair Castle & Gardens
- Opening Times: Daily, 9:30 am - 5:30 pm (Apr to Oct), limited opening Nov to Mar
- Prices: Adults £13.00, Children £9.50
- Postcode: PH18 5TL
- Est. time required: 2-3 hours
- Nearest parking: On-site
Blair Castle & Gardens offers a peek into Scottish history and heritage with its 700 years of history. Ideal for families and history enthusiasts, the castle boasts furnished rooms, extensive grounds and a deer park. The Hercules Garden and Diana's Grove are must-sees. The best time to visit is spring when the gardens are in full bloom. Tip: Check out the castle's events calendar for special activities like the Atholl Gathering and Highland Games.
Phone number: 01796 481207 | Web: www.blair-castle.co.uk
Loch Leven National Nature Reserve
- Opening Times: Open all year, visitor centre times vary
- Prices: Free entry
- Postcode: KY13 9HD
- Est. time required: 2-4 hours
- Nearest parking: On-site
Nature lovers and birdwatchers will adore Loch Leven National Nature Reserve. It's a haven for wildlife, including thousands of migratory birds. Enjoy peaceful walks, photography and the tranquillity of the loch. The reserve is always introducing new conservation efforts. The best time to visit is during spring or autumn migrations. Tip: Bring your binoculars and check the reserve's website for guided walk schedules.
Web: www.nature.scot
Scone Palace
- Opening Times: Daily, 9:30 am - 6:00 pm (Apr to Oct), limited opening Nov to Mar
- Prices: Adults £12.00, Children £8.50
- Postcode: PH2 6BD
- Est. time required: 2-3 hours
- Nearest parking: On-site
Scone Palace is a place of immense historical significance, once the crowning place of Scottish kings. It's a hit with those who appreciate grand architecture and royal history. The palace is filled with fine art and antiques and the grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll. The Murray Star Maze is a recent addition. The best time to visit is in the summer when you can also enjoy the outdoor events. Tip: Don't miss the 'Stone of Destiny' where kings were crowned.
Phone number: 01738 552300 | Web: www.scone-palace.co.uk
Drummond Castle Gardens
- Opening Times: Daily, 1:00 pm - 6:00 pm (May to Oct)
- Prices: Adults £6.00, Children £2.00
- Postcode: PH7 4HZ
- Est. time required: 1-2 hours
- Nearest parking: On-site
Drummond Castle Gardens is a stunning example of formal terraced gardens. It's perfect for those who love landscaping and garden design. The gardens have been featured in films and TV shows and there's always something in bloom. The best time to visit is late spring to early autumn. Tip: The garden's layout is designed to be viewed from above, so make sure to find the spot for the best view.
Phone number: 01764 681433 | Web: www.drummondcastlegardens.co.uk
The Scottish Crannog Centre
- Opening Times: Daily, 10:00 am - 5:30 pm (Apr to Oct)
- Prices: Adults £10.00, Children £7.00
- Postcode: PH15 2HY
- Est. time required: 1-2 hours
- Nearest parking: On-site
The Scottish Crannog Centre is an immersive experience into ancient loch-dwelling life. It's a unique day out for families and anyone interested in Scotland's prehistoric past. The centre features a reconstructed crannog and live demonstrations of ancient crafts. New exhibits and activities are added regularly. The best time to visit is during one of their special events, like Iron Age Gourmet or Celtic Samhain. Tip: Participate in the hands-on activities for a full experience.
Phone number: 01887 830583 | Web: www.crannog.co.uk
Perthshire and Kinross Shire is a treasure trove of attractions and these six are just the beginning. Whether you're staying in cosy lodges in Perthshire or just passing through, make sure to add these gems to your itinerary for an unforgettable Scottish adventure.
FAQs
This is our first lodge break, what will it be like?
Expect a cosy retreat with stunning natural surroundings. Lodges in Perthshire And Kinross Shire often come with modern amenities, like fully-equipped kitchens and comfy living areas. Many have decks or patios, perfect for sipping your morning coffee while soaking up the views. It's a chill vibe, with nature right on your doorstep.
What should I pack when visiting Perthshire And Kinross Shire?
Pack for the great outdoors – sturdy walking boots and waterproofs are a must. Bring layers, as the weather can change quickly. Don't forget your swimsuit for hot tub lodges and maybe some binoculars for wildlife spotting. Essentials like toiletries and some basic cooking ingredients are handy, though many lodges provide these.
Can you park outside the lodge?
Most lodges in Perthshire And Kinross Shire offer parking, often right by your accommodation. It's super convenient for unloading your gear. If you're staying at a larger resort like Blairgowrie Holiday Park, check ahead as they might have designated parking areas a short walk from your lodge.
What if it rains during my lodge break?
Rain's no deal-breaker! Lodges are snug, so you can kick back with a book or board games. If you're feeling adventurous, grab your waterproofs and embrace the weather – the landscape is dramatic in the rain. Plus, many local attractions like The Scottish Crannog Centre are great rainy-day options.
Can I get food delivered to my lodge?
Absolutely, many local takeaways and restaurants in towns like Pitlochry or Aberfeldy will deliver to lodges. Supermarkets like Tesco or Sainsbury's also offer delivery services. For a special treat, check out local farm shops or delis – they often have scrumptious local produce that can be delivered or picked up.
Is Perthshire And Kinross Shire a good place to visit ‘off-season’?
Definitely! Off-season visits mean fewer crowds and often lower prices. The autumn colours are spectacular and winter brings a magical frosty landscape, ideal for cosy lodge nights. Plus, you can visit year-round attractions like Edradour Distillery without the summer queues.
Will my hot tub be cleaned before we arrive?
You bet. Hot tubs are usually drained, cleaned and refilled before each new guest arrives. It's part of the service to ensure a top-notch experience. If you're staying somewhere like River Edge Lodges, they'll have it warm and bubbling ready for your first dip.
Are there any pet-friendly lodges available?
Loads! Perthshire And Kinross Shire is super pet-friendly. Many lodges welcome furry friends and there are plenty of walks to tire out even the most energetic pooch. Just check the lodge's pet policy when you book – there might be a small extra charge.
What local activities can I book in advance?
Get ahead of the game by booking activities before you arrive. From golfing at Gleneagles to white-water rafting on the River Tay, there's loads to choose from. Many lodges will have info on local providers and some might even snag you a discount.
How accessible are lodges for those with mobility issues?
Many lodges are designed with accessibility in mind, offering features like ramp access and walk-in showers. Places like Piperdam Golf & Leisure Resort have specific lodges tailored for those with reduced mobility. Always best to chat with the provider before booking to ensure your needs are met.