Autumn in Perthshire

Day 1 - Welcome to Perthshire

Arrive in the pretty village of Pitlochry this morning and meet your Wilderness guide. After a short transfer, stretch your legs with a lovely walk through a leafy woodland. Pass Ossian’s Hall, a folly where you can look out over the thundering falls of the River Braan. Cross an old stone bridge and stroll out into the open countryside. Later this afternoon, transfer to your charming accommodation and the welcoming warmth of a crackling fire. (L, D)

Walk details: 9 km/5.5 miles | approx. 3-4 hours | Ascent 300 m/985 ft

Day 2 - Aberfeldy and the Crannog Centre

Begin your day by following a burn over mossy rock and wind-blown leaves as you walk beneath a coppery canopy of beech trees. Listen to the rush of autumnal water as it cascades through the forest. Wander past Burn’s Seat, said to be where Robert Burns penned his poem, ‘Birks of Aberfeldy.’ Stone steps lead you higher into the narrowing gorge as waterfalls full of winter pulse and the sky opens up to reveal beautiful views over the crags. Return to Aberfeldy for lunch, taking the time to explore the pretty town and perhaps popping into the treasured local bookshop. Later this afternoon, visit the Crannog Centre, an engaging museum which tells the story of those who lived on the Highland lochs some 2500 years ago. (B, L)

Walk details: approx. 8 km/5 miles | 4 hours | Ascent 350 m/1,150 ft

Day 3 - Linn of Tummel and the Highland Chocolatier

This morning join your guide on a beautiful walk that showcases the best of the autumn colour. Wander along riverside paths above the rushing waters and enjoy stunning views. While you walk, keep an eye out for deer, geese and red squirrels. This afternoon, enjoy a visit to the local Highland Chocolatier and his world-class artisanal chocolate shop. Sip a delicious hot chocolate and sample some of his famous truffles before returning to your cosy accommodation for the evening. (B, L)

Walk details: 10.75 km/6.75 miles | approx. 4-5 hours | Ascent 175 m/575 ft

Day 4 - Schiehallion and Glen Lyon

Visit the Dun Coillich Estate this morning to join a local ranger for some volunteering. With the estate sitting in the shadow of Schiehallion, you’ll learn more about the Mountain Woodland Project and spend your morning helping outside. ‘Schiehallion’, from the Gaelic’ Sith Chailleann’, means ‘Fairy Hill of the Caledonians’ and is home to important species such as ptarmigan, mountain hare and rare mountain willow. Afterwards, head to Glen Lyon, described by the playwright and poet Sir Walter Scot as the longest, loneliest and loveliest glen in Scotland. Walk through the birch woodland, enjoying views that stretch up and down the fiery valley. (B, L, D)

Volunteering: This will be tree planting or another task depending on what the rangers require help with on the day. No experience is required, just be prepared to get stuck in. Old clothes are recommended.

Walk details: 4.5 km/2.75 miles | approx. 1.5 hours | Ascent 165 m/540 ft

Day 5 - Ascend a local summit

After a relaxed breakfast, head off with your guide for a classic short hill ascent near Pitlochry. The path initially rises gradually, taking in sweeping views of the glen. A steeper section takes you through woodland to a fine summit viewpoint taking in distant lochs and mountains. Enjoy lunch at a local cafe, bringing your autumnal adventure to a close. (B, L)

Walk details: 5 km/3 miles | approx. 2 hours | Ascent 240m/790ft