Published 30/03/2023, 16:50
Hugging the shores of the majestic Loch Tay, Loch Tay Highland Lodges boasts an enviable position with easy access to the Scottish Highlands. Onsite there is the fantastic activity provider, In Your Element, offering up a selection of pulse racing activities from axe throwing to gorge walking. Guests staying here may also make use of our relaxing The Boathouse Kitchen & Bar which serves up a mouth-watering array of dishes including local delicacies, there’s even a doggy menu!
However, we all know that part of what makes a good holiday a great one is exploring the local area so we have whipped up a list of our top things to do in Killin, we promise you, there is something for everyone!
Our Top 10 things to do in Killin
1 Ben Lawers Mountain and Nature Reserve – (5 minutes’ drive) –
No holiday at Loch Tay would be complete without experiencing the breathtaking Ben Lawers Mountain and Nature Reserve. Soaring above the Loch’s shores, this impressive mountain range is visible from all our accommodation and the nature trails are well worth the effort. With a car park not too far from the summit, we do recommend making the climb to the top, the views are simply out of this world.
Read more > Ben Lawers | National Trust for Scotland (nts.org.uk)
2 Kenmore (10 minutes’ drive)
Lying at the northern edge of Loch Tay, the village of Kenmore has long lured visitors thanks to its charm and allure. Home to the Scottish Crannog Centre, you can spend some time discovering what life was like 2,500 years ago in this reconstructed house built on stilts overhanging the water! After, refresh in one of the local eateries, browse the shops and take in the tranquil beauty which this pretty village is famed for.
Visit Kenmore
3 Falls of Archan (15 minutes’ drive)
For a taste of serenity the gorgeous circular walk at the stunning Falls of Acharn is simply one of our favourite things to do in Killin. A moderate circular walk, the trail takes you through an old Hermit’s Cave which was constructed during Victorian times as a kind of folly. It is from here you view the cascading Falls of Acharn with a viewing platform for the dramatic lower falls. A true hidden gem, this is one of our best kept secrets with many visitors completely unaware of its existence.
Falls of Acharn Walk | Pitlochry Scotland (pitlochry-scotland.co.uk)
4 Fortingall Village (15 minutes’ drive)
Just a few miles west of Aberfeldy the pretty hamlet of Fortingall is renowned for its historic beauty. It is here you will find the Fortingall Yew, thought to be over 5,000 years old and likely to be the oldest living thing on earth! Whilst small in size, there is plenty to explore with incredible architecture, history and views at every turn. It’s a really lovely place to visit with a small church as well as a welcoming hotel where we highly recommend you stop for lunch.
Fortingall Visitor Guide - Accommodation, Things To Do & More | VisitScotland
5 Mains of Taymouth Golf Course (20 minutes’ drive)
Nestled in the heart of the Scottish Highlands, the scenic Mains of Taymouth Golf Course is an excellent thing to do in Killin if you’re a keen golfer. Designed to challenge all golfing abilities, each hole is guaranteed to test you. Dubbed “Perthshire’s finest nine hole” golfers can enjoy incredible views, fabulous golf and excellent amenities.
Golf Course - Fcilities | Mains of Taymouth
6 Highland Safaris & Red Deer Centre (25 minutes’ drive)
For a day to remember this is a must, having won 'Best Visitor Experience in Scotland', their exhilarating Land Rover safaris offer an unrivalled way to experience the rugged Scottish Highlands. For a less action packed experience, wander around the Red Deer Centre where you can enjoy some close encounters including the chance to feed these gentle creatures.
Highland Safaris & Red Deer Centre - Aberfeldy Safaris
7 Castle Menzies (25 minutes’ drive)
Dating back to the sixteenth Century, Castle Menzies is a fine example of a traditional Scottish castle standing proud in the rugged Highlands. Restored during the twentieth century, Castle Menzies was awarded the ‘Third Best Castle in Scotland’ by the Times newspaper in 2023 and it’s easy to see why. Discover its turbulent history, explore the gorgeous walled garden, enter the Old Kirk of Weem then refresh in the enticing cafe.
Welcome to Castle Menzies - Castle restored by Menzies Clan Society
8 Dewars Aberfeldy Distillery (25 minutes’ drive)
For a true taste of Scotland it takes a trip to a local whisky distillery to sample a wee 'dram. One of our more grown up recommendations of things to do in Killin, a visit to Dewars Aberfeldy Distillery provides the chance to learning more about this world renowned drink, uncovering its history and processes before a tasting session. For those really keen to get hands on, Dewars even provide the chance to blend your own dram to take home with you.
Dewar's Aberfeldy Distillery (dewars.com)
9 Faskally Forest (1 hours’ drive)
Managed by Forestry Scotland, the largely man-made Faskally Wood can be found in the Tay Forest and is great for families. There are numerous well-maintained and signposted pathways, a ‘foresters classroom’ and, during the autumn months, the Enchanted Forest experience which sees the woods transformed into a magical light and music show.
Faskally Wood, Near Pitlochry – Forests & Woodlands | VisitScotland
10 Killiecrankie (1 hours’ drive)
A National Trust Scotland site, Killicrankie is a spectacular gorge surrounded by ancient woodland and packed with history. It is here that one of the bloodiest Jacobite battles took place with plenty of historical sites noted as you walk. Home to an abundance of wildlife, keep eyes peeled as you explore for the elusive pine marten, red squirrels and woodpeckers.
Highland Fling Bungee | Bungee Jump Scotland UK
Whilst not extensive, we hope this list of our top things to do in Killin provides some inspiration during your holiday with us at Loch Tay Highland lodges. Of course, there are numerous other things to do including ski-ing, fishing, cycling, wild swimming to name but a few. Please do share your recommendations and memories with us, we love seeing you all have a great time and making moments to cherish.
Visit Loch Tay Highland Lodges | Largo Leisure