Head north out of Aberfeldy on the B846 along the tree-lined Poplar Avenue.
just before the Ailean Chraggan Hotel turn right at the junction to Strathtay. You are now on a quiet back road that runs along the scenic north bank of the River Tay.
A couple of miles on are spectacular Cluny House Gardens - renowned for their rare and exotic plants from all over the world including Japan, China and Tibet.
You soon come to the fine villas and mansion houses of sleepy Strathtay, a relatively modern village created by the coming of the railway (since closed) in the 19th century. Turn right here to cross the River Tay on Grandtully Bridge, which stands above a set of rapids that are regularly used for international canoe competitions. You can often watch canoeists trying to negotiate the gates hanging above the river or rafters plunging down the foaming waters.
Turn right at the main A827 road back into Aberfeldy, but first pop into Legends of Grandtully, a chocolatier, crafts and antique shop. Just after Grandtully village, turn off the road at the signs to St Mary’s Chapel. The simple exterior of this 16th century church belies its remarkable interior, which has a detailed and well-preserved painted ceiling dating from 1626.
As you reach the outskirts of Aberfeldy, visit Dewar’s World of Whisky, an impressive, interactive visitor centre about our national drink, and browse the crafted furniture and giftware of Spirit of Wood, which is located just above the distillery.
River Image: Copyright Judi Campbell
