1. Bag a Munro
Host to eight Munro’s, there are plenty to choose from. Whether it’s something you always said you would do, or you’re an avid “bagger”- Perthshire has Munros in all corners. Schiehallion is the prominent peak visible from afar and a favourite for those seeking stunning views of the whole county. Schiehallion even played a unique role in scientific history with an 18th-century experiment in “weighing the world”.
2. Take a Wild Swim
Perthshire is littered with lochs, pools, and waterways. Wild swimming has taken off in a big way here and it is a perfect way to explore local areas, cool off or get some exercise in. Loch Faskally which is just a short walk from the centre of Pitlochry has easy access and little loch beaches, all perfect for a quick dip. There are so many places to visit to satisfy your wild swimming bug in Perthshire, check out The Salty Sea Sister’s incredibly cool maps and advice when seeking out your next outdoor pool.
3. Explore a Canyon
Waterfalls are never far away in the Highlands and as pretty as they are from a distance, they are even more spectacular up close. Canyoning is a fast-growing adventure activity which takes you on an exploration of Scottish gorges filled with natural slides, exhilarating cliff jumps and technical abseils through the falls. A particular favourite is the Falls of Bruar Canyoning, situated in the hills behind the famous House of Bruar; it is the most incredible natural water park. Whether you are looking to give your teenager an unforgettable experience or get a bunch of friends together for that “something different” day out- it really won’t disappoint.
4. Stand Up and Paddle Board
Everyone seems to know about Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, or SUPS for short – but did you know that Highland Perthshire has limitless places to strap up and paddle your way into the wilderness? Many of the Lochs have great access for vehicles, making it easy to park up, pump up and go. A personal favourite is Loch Tummel. This long shallow loch is the perfect SUP spot; paddle your way around little islands and take in the “Big Tree Country”. If you’re looking for expert guidance, kit and SUP experiences, check out our friends at Beyond Adventure.
5. Classic White Water Rafting
This well-known and loved adventure has been a staple for Perthshire for many decades now. There are plenty of rivers in Perthshire that offer up amazing rapids, but the most popular must be the mighty Tay. The River Tay White Water Rafting experience is the perfect family summer adventure. It’s a stunning adventure activity for all ages giving kids a taste of rapids whilst in the safe hand of qualified and experienced instructors. It is ideal for the smaller kids and is very family friendly – you can all sit together and enjoy the views.
6. Hit the Trails on a Bike
Two-wheel adventures are a staple for those living in Perthshire. Mountain biking trails are dotted around the county. Dunkeld is a famous hot spot, with steep trails to give the most experienced mountain bikers a challenge and mellow forest tracks for families to enjoy. This is the ideal activity to tire out those teenagers, whilst parents can match their energy by taking an electric mountain bike for a spin without forfeiting any of the enjoyment. There are many hire companies, check out Progression Bikes for expert guidance and hire.
7. Ride Rapids on a Tube
So you’re here on holiday, the sun is shining (or maybe not….) and your thinking about that age-old conundrum of “what to do”. Take beautiful river gorges, stunning forests, thrilling rapids and an inflatable ring and you have yourself one of the most unique adventures Scotland has to offer. There are options for families and kids and more adrenalin-filled “older kids” options too. Not only do you get to see Perthshire from a unique perspective, but you also get the heat pumping too.
8. Scramble Down a Gorge
Taking a walk in Perthshire, you will no doubt find yourself peering down into twisting gorges that have an almost magical ability to call on your inner explorer. Like its Big Sister (canyoning), gorge walking does what it says on the tin. Don’t let the word “walking” throw you off. This is no stroll in the park but rather a wicked adventure made up of wild swimming, cliff jumping, scrambling, and sliding. Being canyoning’s little sister it is perfect for little ones and adults alike.
9. Go on a Safari
Yes, you read that correctly! A safari in Scotland no less. You don’t need to travel to the deepest darkest Africa for a safari. Here in Perthshire, you could find yourself sitting in a 4×4 spotting a wild Stag or searching for the elusive Haggis. Or take a ride on the safari boat and see the stunning banks of Loch Tay. Check out Highland Safaris and get the binoculars at the ready.
10. Have a crack at Canoeing
This traditional water sport is at its best in Perthshire, if you have read this far you are likely aware of how many waterways and lochs are in the area. Which makes it the perfect place to explore in a Canadian canoe, you may even mistake the scenery for Canada as Perthshire is well known as “Big Tree Country”. Hire boats from Tiso’s outdoor experience store in Perth or book a guided trip with Beyond Adventure.
