Hi Everyone,
I’ve been spending a lot of time over in Aberfeldy this month, organising our new properties and enjoying the wonderful shops , arts and foodie culture they have going on in this colourful Highland town. Aberfeldy is one of those little towns that is stuffed full of great things to do and places to go and I don’t know why, but you just instantly relax the minute you sit down!
It was, of course, made famous by Robert Burns in his poem describing the wonderful Birks of Aberfeldy. Anyone serious about walking in Scotland will head for this wonderful array of walks covering everything from a gentle riverside strolls to challenging long distance routes and the majesty of The Birks’ Moness burn, with waterfalls, gorges and breath-taking views. If you are thinking of walking in the area then do pick up a copy of Felicity Martin’s Perthshire Walks books printed by Catkin press – they are invaluable and very reasonably priced!
The Birks is no longer reserved for walks in the forest though, after an amazing community project to revive the old cinema in the town’s centre. Following a successful grant application in 2009 ‘Friends of The Birks’ set about fundraising to make this vision possible. It successfully opened in April 2013 and had Hollywood star, Alan Cumming, who became patron of the Birks cinema in 2009, visit his home town for an official launch in December 2013. Film buffs everywhere will love this amazing building and its full story.
As well as the great outdoors, cinema and beautiful independent galleries, Aberfeldy is a hotbed of foodie delights! They were Scotland’s first fair trade town and it is quite fascinating to see an entire community rally behind one amazing belief. You will find local produce a plenty at Aberfeldy Farm Fresh deli; if you are staying with us we can’t recommend a visit to this wonderful deli enough. Sally and her team are passionate about using local and stock an amazing range of veggies, meats, cheeses, hams and homemade cakes and savoury treats.
I have found that I can happily while a way a few days over in Aberfeldy, eating out, shopping, pottering around and when I have time, pulling on my walking boots and hitting the trails. I am so pleased to have expanded our properties in this area and would urge you all to take a closer look at our things to do pages!
Now, I’m off to pick up a quiche from farmfresh and perhaps stop at the Birks for a coffee and a pastry... Yes, I do know how lucky I am!
Best wishes, Bea
PS Aberfeldy is also part of the Rings of Breadalbane Explorer Bus. You can find out more about this on my Rings of Breadalbane Blog.
We have just returned from a fabulous weekend at Tigh Monadh, Pitlochry . The property is very well equipped with every conceivable kitchen appliance to make our stay very homely. The overall condition of the property is excellent. The welcome home made bread and cakes were excellent. The heating was so effective that we didn't manage to use the log fire. I'm very confident that the property would be very cosy at any time of the year. If you are a serious walker access to Ben Vrackie is right outside. We are looking forward to a return visit.
Tigh Monadh
Having stayed on the Duchally Estate previously we were delighted to find Ryder Cup Lodge and booked a longer stay this year as its a great base for visiting the surrounding area. The lodge had everything we needed for our family of 5. It was very clean and has a great location directly behind the main hotel building. Collecting the key from the key safe meant arrival was very easy and convenient. The leisure facilities are fantastic, great to be able to swim daily and use the Jacuzzi, Sauna and Steam Room. We can recommend both Afternoon Tea and Evening Meals in Montheath's Restaurant especially when accompanied with Duchallys own Gatehouse Gin (Gin Mojito is amazing!!) We look forward to returning to the lodge in the near future.
You won’t be disappointed. Gorgeous cottage and outdoor space. Well equipped and cosy. Will definitely be going back. Joan and friends
Auld Smiddy Cottage