Blairgowrie is the start and end point of the much-loved Cateran Trail. This long distance walking route travels right through the heart of Scotland where Angus meets Perthshire and takes in spectacular views, fine culture, a myriad of wildlife and ever changing terrain as it goes.
The route travels a once-abandoned, wildly beautiful segment of Scottish Highland landscape and takes its name from the groups of cattle thieves that once terrorised these parts from the Middle Ages up until the 17th century.
The full trail is 64 miles long and is usually split into five sections. The whole thing can be tackled one part at a time over a course of several days or, alternatively, walkers can chose to pick the route up anywhere they like in order to complete just one chosen section. Because the Cateran Trail is fully waymarked it's easy to dip in and out as you please. Along the journey you will come across a number of hand-carved Sentinels; wooden effigies of the characters who once called this landscape home.
Image: Richard Brough
This walk is a fabulous one for those looking to really explore and get the most out of their surroundings. The route will lead you along the banks of the River Ericht, across gently rolling pasture land, through forest and hidden glens before rising to the more upland areas. You'll walk through rugged moorland, pass high peaks and may be lucky enough to spot a red deer or an eagle overhead. Enjoy the far-reaching views of the wild mountainous landscapes and look out for the prominent Mount Blair before venturing into the scenic area surrounding Alyth Hill, with its strong connections to Arthurian legend.
For details on each of the stages and more information you can take a look at the Cateran Trail Website.
Explore this wonderful area for yourself and discover how you can stay in one of the Witch's Pool properties on the banks of the River Ericht by following the link below.
