Known as ‘Big Tree Country’, Perthshire borders the Highlands and fertile Lowlands. It’s home to some of Scotland’s most iconic natural landscapes and abundant wildlife.
The diversity of endless green hills swathed in purple heather, snow capped peaks and thick lush woodlands are beautifully complimented by thundering waterfalls and glistening rivers. A delight for all the senses.
Perthshire has a few of the country’s best nature reserves including Loch Leven, The Birks of Aberfeldy, Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park, Craigvinean and Deuchny Wood. Whilst visiting keep your eyes peeled for Europe’s oldest tree, red, roe and fallow deer, leaping salmon, red squirrels, dragonflies, beavers, red grouse and soaring ospreys.
The area is also revered for wild beavers who after a 400 year absence have returned. If you’re lucky enough, you may see them repairing their own dams built to produce rich wetlands, and discover why their existence is vital to river ecology.
The curious forager is in for a culinary treat. Nibble inquisitively on dandelion or elderflower leaves, snack on handfuls of wild berries, or gather wild garlic, chanterelles and nettles to make a nutritiously soothing soup.
When in season wild bluebells are a sight to behold. Tucked away in bluebell woods and steeped in local folklore, discover the legend of the ‘Fairy Flower’. It’s said that bluebells are the preferred home of fairies, so be careful where you tread, avoid any harm, or fear their wrath!
A jaunt to Perthshire’s coast is definitely worth doing. Expect beautiful beaches, seabird colonies and coastal wildflowers. The area is a popular spot with puffins, gannets, guillemots and kittiwakes. Minke whales, bottlenose dolphins, seals and porpoises have also been known to frequent the coastal waters. Just remember to pack your binoculars and a telescope.
Closer to home in the grounds of Errol Park we’re extremely fortunate to have our own lush woodlands and green fields. We give credence to ‘Big Tree Country’ with our majestic ancient oak trees, yews, large cedars and 31 magnificent Wellingtonias (or Californian redwoods) that line the drive.
The much-adorned native Red Squirrels reside at Errol Park, and we’re particularly proud of our conservation project to protect them. Their species has seen a drastic decline in recent years.
As the seasons change, so does our natural landscape. Autumn is a particularly enchanting time with the scattering of fallen leaves, and vibrant hues of red and gold. Spring and summer bring an explosion of bright colours and fresh floral scents. In the winter months snowdrops and winter honeysuckle are a sight to behold, particularly when the backdrop is white with snow.
The idyllic grounds are truly inspirational at any time of the year.
