Step into Nature: Fantastic Walks Around Blairgowrie

Blairgowrie isn’t just a gateway to the wider wonders of Perthshire; it’s also nestled in an area brimming with incredible walking opportunities right on its doorstep.

Whether you’re seeking a gentle stroll, a half-day ramble, or a more challenging full-day hike, you’ll find pathways suitable for families, older adventurers, and seasoned trekkers alike, perfect in both summer sunshine and crisp winter air. And with the fantastic Scottish Outdoor Access Code, you have the freedom to explore responsibly (you can read more about your ‘right to roam’ on our dedicated blog post here!).

Gentle Strolls & Family-Friendly Paths (Short Walks – under 2 hours)

For those looking for a leisurely leg-stretch or a pleasant family outing, Blairgowrie and its immediate vicinity offer charming options:

• The Ardblair Trail (Blairgowrie): Starting right from Blairgowrie, this circular walk offers an accessible, relatively flat path through woodlands and past farmland. It’s perfect for all ages and provides lovely views without demanding too much effort. It’s a great choice for a refreshing morning or afternoon stroll, suitable for buggies in drier conditions.
• Loch of the Lowes Wildlife Reserve (Dunkeld, approx. 20 mins drive): While known for its ospreys (visible from spring to late summer), the reserve also has a wonderful short, accessible trail around part of the loch. It’s flat, well-maintained, and offers beautiful views and wildlife spotting opportunities. An ideal gentle walk that combines nature and tranquillity.
• Reekie Linn Waterfall (near Alyth, approx. 15 mins drive): A short, well-marked path leads you to this spectacular waterfall on the River Isla. It’s a dramatic sight, particularly after rain, and the walk itself is relatively short but rewarding, suitable for most abilities.

Half-Day Rambles & Woodland Adventures (2-4 hours)

For those with a bit more time and energy, these walks offer more extensive exploration and varied scenery:

• Knockie Walk (Blairgowrie): This local favourite offers fantastic panoramic views over Blairgowrie, the Strathmore Valley, and towards the distant Grampians. While it involves a steady climb, the paths are clear, and the reward at the top is well worth the effort. It can be done in a couple of hours but allows for longer enjoyment of the views.
• Loch Clunie & Lintrose (near Coupar Angus, approx. 15 mins drive): This circular route takes you around the picturesque Loch Clunie, home to a historic crannog, before heading through lovely countryside towards Lintrose. It’s a varied walk that combines lochside beauty with open fields and quiet lanes, offering a tranquil escape.
• The Den of Alyth (Alyth, approx. 10 mins drive): Explore the beautiful woodland gorge of the Den of Alyth. A network of paths follows the Alyth Burn, with charming bridges and ancient trees. You can tailor your walk here from a short stroll to a longer exploration, perfect for families looking for an enchanting woodland adventure.

Full-Day Treks & Scenic Challenges (4+ hours)

For more dedicated hikers, these options offer a deeper dive into Perthshire’s stunning landscapes:

• Part of the Cateran Trail (various access points, within 30 mins drive): The Cateran Trail is a circular long-distance route tracing ancient drovers’ roads and connecting Perthshire and Angus. You can easily access sections of this trail within 30 minutes of Blairgowrie for a full day’s hike. Consider sections around the Blacklunans, Kirkmichael, or even heading towards Glen Isla, offering stunning moorland, glen, and hillwalking. This area is rich in local heritage and is part of the broader Cateran Ecomuseum, which celebrates the unique culture and landscape of this ancient heartland.
• Loch Ordie (near Dunkeld, approx. 25 mins drive): A popular and rewarding full-day walk, the route to Loch Ordie takes you through extensive woodlands (part of the Tay Forest Park) and offers a real sense of getting away from it all. The loch itself is a tranquil spot, ideal for a peaceful picnic before your return journey. The paths are generally good, but the length makes it a full-day commitment.
• Falls of Bruar (near Blair Atholl, approx. 30 mins drive): While a little further, the Falls of Bruar offers a spectacular full-day experience, especially when combined with exploring the surrounding woodlands and hills. The series of waterfalls is impressive, and the circular walk through the famous ‘Dukes of Atholl’s Pleasure Grounds’ is invigorating and offers a wonderful blend of natural beauty and designed landscape.

Your Walking Holiday Base

After a day spent exploring Perthshire’s beautiful trails, you’ll love returning to the comfort of our hotel. Kick off your boots, perhaps take a refreshing dip in our indoor pool, or soothe tired muscles with a well-deserved spa treatment. Our restaurant awaits with a hearty meal, perfect for refuelling after your adventures.