Scotland's Magnificent Trees

Kay Charbonneau & Co

Summer 2025

Number of Travellers: 3
Duration: 5 Days / 4 Nights

Overview

Scotland’s ‘Big Tree Country,’ Perthshire, is home to some of the most magnificent and historic trees in the UK. This five-day itinerary will take you deep into ancient woodlands, grand estates, and tranquil lochsides, where you’ll stand beneath some of Europe’s oldest and tallest trees. From the legendary Fortingall Yew to towering Douglas firs and serene birch forests, you’ll explore a region steeped in history, folklore, and natural beauty. Each day brings encounters with remarkable trees that have shaped Scotland’s landscape for centuries, providing a journey that is both breathtaking and deeply grounding. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, history lover, or simply looking for an inspiring getaway, this Perthshire-based adventure will leave you with a profound appreciation for Scotland’s extraordinary trees.

Highlights

  • Stand in awe beneath the Fortingall Yew, one of Europe’s oldest trees
  • Walk among the towering Douglas firs of The Hermitage, some of the UK’s tallest trees
  • Stroll through the grand woodland trails of Blair Castle’s Hercules Garden

Day by Day

Day 1 - Meikleour Beech Hedge, Dunkeld & The Hermitage

Your journey begins in Perth, where you’ll start your adventure and meet your friendly Wilderness Scotland guide. Depart Perth and visit the Meikleour Beech Hedge, the tallest hedge in the world, planted in 1745 and still standing as a remarkable natural monument. Next, make your way to Dunkeld, where you’ll explore The Hermitage, an enchanting forest landscape featuring some of Britain’s tallest Douglas firs. Follow scenic woodland trails to the thundering Black Linn Falls, where you can admire the grandeur of these towering giants. A short transfer will take you to the charming village of Grandtully, where you can settle into your accommodation at the Grandtully Hotel, your base for the next four nights, and enjoy a warm Scottish welcome with a hearty meal.

Overnight: Grandtully | Grandtully Hotel
Meals Included: Lunch

Day 2 - Birks of Aberfeldy & Fortingall Yew

Begin your day with a walk through the Birks of Aberfeldy, a breathtaking gorge filled with cascading waterfalls and ancient birch trees. Made famous by Scotland’s national poet, Robert Burns, this woodland offers a poetic and peaceful retreat. From here, transfer a short distance to the tiny village of Fortingall, home to the ancient Fortingall Yew, thought to be between 2000-3000 years old, with some believing it could be up to 5,000 years old. This remarkable tree has stood the test of time, bearing witness to millennia of history. After soaking in the atmosphere of this sacred site, continue through the stunning Glen Lyon, often described as Scotland’s most beautiful glen. Here, enjoy a leisurely walk through native woodlands and peaceful riverbanks before returning to the Grandtully Hotel for a relaxed evening.

Overnight: Grandtully | Grandtully Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 3 - Loch Rannoch & The Black Wood

Venture into one of Scotland’s most important ancient woodlands, the Black Wood of Rannoch. This vast remnant of the original Caledonian Forest is home to towering Scots pines, red squirrels, and an incredible sense of solitude. Enjoy a guided walk through this atmospheric woodland, learning about its ecology and history. Afterward, take in the stunning views along Loch Rannoch, before returning to the Grandtully Hotel to unwind after a day of exploring.

Overnight: Grandtully | Grandtully Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 4 - Blair Castle & Gardens

Spend your final full day immersed in the historic grandeur of Blair Castle and its spectacular surroundings. Begin with a tour of the castle itself, delving into its fascinating history spanning over 750 years. Then, step outside to explore the extensive grounds, home to ancient trees, serene parkland, and majestic Highland scenery. Wander through the beautifully restored Hercules Garden, a stunning 9-acre walled garden featuring elegant water features, fruit trees, and ornamental plantings. Follow the Diana’s Grove trail, where some of Scotland’s tallest trees—including mighty larches and firs—create a truly magical atmosphere. After a full day of exploration, return to your hotel for a final evening, reflecting on the towering forests, historic landscapes, and deep connections made throughout this remarkable journey.

Overnight: Grandtully | Grandtully Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 - Drummond Castle Gardens and Depart

Depart Grandtully this morning and travel south to the magnificent Drummond Castle Gardens, one of Scotland’s finest formal gardens. Stroll through the beautifully manicured parterre, where centuries-old yew trees and elegant topiaries create a stunning tapestry of greenery. Marvel at the grand beech avenues and ancient oak trees that frame the estate, offering breathtaking views across the surrounding countryside. Take your time exploring this historic site, soaking in the tranquility before making your way to Perth. If time allows, enjoy a brief stop at Branklyn Garden, a hidden gem renowned for its rare trees and vibrant flora. Your journey through Perthshire’s remarkable trees comes to a close in Perth, where your guide will drop you off at the train station and bid your a fond farewell.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Trip Details

Inclusions Read More
  • 4 nights accommodation, as stated in the itinerary above
  • Most meals, as stated in the itinerary above
  • The services of a qualified and experienced guide from Day 1 to Day 5 inclusive
  • All transfers in a private vehicle driven by our guide on guided days
  • All guided hikes mentioned in the itinerary
  • Entrance fees and activities mentioned in the itinerary, specifically:
    • Blair Castle & Gardens
    • Drummond Castle & Gardens
  • Personalised trip design and delivery
  • 24/7 In-Country Support from the Wilderness Team
Exclusions Read More
  • Flights
  • Travel insurance
  • Meals not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Activities and entrance fees not mentioned in the inclusions
  • Gratuities for the main driver guide
Notes Read More
  • All suggested accommodations and services are subject to availability at the time of booking.
  • A 25% deposit is required before any accommodation and services will be confirmed.
  • This quote is valid for 14 days from the date quoted, after this time pricing may be subject to revision.
  • Activities are only private if so specified.
Pricing Read More

The price of this trip is £2,645 per person and is based on availability at the time of booking.

Terms & Conditions Read More

Please see our booking terms here.

Get in Touch

Tel: +44 (0) 1479 420 020

Email Bridget

Accommodation

Grandtully Hotel

Ballintaggart | Grandtully | Perthshire |
PH9 0PX | Phone: +44 (0) 1887 447000
Web: ballintaggart.com

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Photo looking across mossy rocks to a flowing river. Taken on a sunny autumn day in the forest.

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Photo of the manicured green gardens at Blair Castle in the sun

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Robin

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Bee

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Low aerial photo looking across a quiet, still loch surrounded by lush green trees, taken on a sunny day.

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A photo of lots of bluebells in bloom in a field.

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Chaffinch
Virtuoso

Scotland’s Magnificent Trees

Summer 2025