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 are loving our stay in your cottage. It is fantastic, in such a beautiful setting and so cosy at night. It`s great being so close to so many lovely places to go exploring. We hope to come again we love it so much! Thanks again
North Shore
Hi Bea and team. We had a wonderful time in Blair Atholl, enjoying walks along the riverbanks and the surrounding countryside. The hospitality we received in the village was first class and The Bank was the perfect place to stay - comfortable, cosy and well equipped. Many thanks
The Bank
We really enjoyed our break at Gardeners cottage. It was so warm and cosy and just perfect for us. The wood burner was an added bonus as we don't have one at home! The cottage was in a great location for all walks and restaurants. Pitlochry is beautiful all year round but especially in Autumn. Kenny and Rita were lovely hosts and on hand for any queries but not at all intrusive. We would definitely return!
Gardeners Cottage