Hikes with history

Perthshire is known for its stunning countryside – rolling hills, lush green grass, and wide vistas – but do you know the history behind some of these famous walks?

The Hermitage: The story behind the Hermitage dates to the 18th Century, when the Dukes of Atholl claimed this stretch of forest as the site for their pleasure grounds. They were enchanted by the dappled sunlight from the canopy overhead and the crunching of pine needles beneath their feet. The Hermitage was originally deigned as part of their extended garden and the Dukes spared no expense; they even imported exotic trees from overseas, mixing native Scottish trees with Native American breeds such as the larch, sycamore, and Douglas firs. It is said that the Hermitage was created in honour of the famous blind bard Ossian and the magic of his poetry can be felt throughout the grounds. The 2nd Duke of Atholl was so entranced by the beauty of the forest that he built a view house. Years later, it was mysteriously adorned with mirrors covering the walls and ceilings. Visitors were greeted with not only a visually stunning scene but felt immersed in the waterfall itself as the reflections bounced and cascaded off the walls around them. Poetry in the beauty of nature – what more could you want?

Lady Mary’s Walk, Crieff: A tree-lined walk through lush forest, past babbling brooks and meandering creeks with kingfishers skimming the water’s surface, Lady Mary’s Walk in Crieff is a woodland fantasy come to life. Many are familiar with the natural beauty of Lady Mary’s Walk, but how much do you know about the woman herself ? Lady Mary Murray was the daughter of a prominent 19th Century land-owning family. Despite her privilege and comfortable station Mary was no stereotypical lady of leisure. Lady Mary was an outspoken advocate for women’s suffrage and an integral figure in the historic struggle of gender equality and women’s rights. When walking through these woods, one can reflect on her legacy and feel a connection to this incredible woman.

Bruar Falls: On a temperate September afternoon in 1787, legendary poet Robert Burns sat on the ground and looked up at waterfalls carved into the cliffs before him. He was mesmerised by the beautiful yet terrible power of the rushing water and felt compelled to record his

thoughts: “Bruar falls… are exceedingly picturesque and beautiful; but their effect is much impaired by the want of trees and shrubs”. Indeed, the waterfalls were set in, at the time, open moorland. Burns was certain that with a bit of landscaping, the

falls could become a sacred place. After his death, the Duke of Atholl was more than convinced and, with a less-than-traditional way of planting (blasting the hillside with seeds fired from a cannon), he soon covered the area with flowers, trees, and shrubs.

The Bruar Falls reminds us of a poet whose vision was simply undeniable.

The next time you embark on one of these famous Perthshire walks, remind yourself of their incredible and magical histories. In these Perthshire walks, history comes to life.

River Braan flows over Black Linn Falls at Dunkeld Hermitage with Ossian’s Hall overlooking the scene.