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.
Hello Bea, Our stay at Hollyhock Cottage was wonderful and gave us a great opportunity to relax, recharge our batteries and prepare for the run into the festive season. The cottage is beautifully appointed and was spotlessly clean. The Christmas decorations were a lovely touch. We were warm and cosy throughout, despite the freezing conditions outside. It’s a lovely 15 minute walk along the river to Dunkeld which has a charm all of its own. We were delighted that so many places we visited were dog-friendly and the scenery in that area is just stunning. Fab holiday, we would love to return.
Hollyhock Cottage
Very clean and comfortable house with an interesting history. . well equipped and nicely decorated. 2 bathrooms, one with an over- the- bath shower, the other with a walk-in shower. Dishwasher and washing machine. Nice outside space with picnic bench and a wee burn at the end of the garden. . 1 mile up the hill from Pitlochry town with easy parking just over the road in the local square. Food available in the pub next door.
Auld Smiddy Cottage
Hi Bea We loved the Stables, it was a very high standard of furnishings and stylish, reflected in the price. Lovely location of course, so peaceful. Comfy bed! Recommended.
The Stables