April 2019 Highland Perthshire Tourism News This is our 23rd year, which is hard to believe. It all began in the autumn of 1996 when we developed our first painted map of Pitlochry with Pitlochry Community Council. Explore Highland Perthshire Guides – For 2019 we have printed 85,000 Explore Highland Perthshire guides Start of the Season Newsletter is our biggest yet – news directly from
fellow tourism businesses across Highland Perthshire. HighlandPerthshire.com and Pitlochry-Scotland.co.uk – our two web sites promoting the area. If you would like your business to feature, please let us know. Facebook – we now have over 21,000 followers. We will continue to talk and champion the area at every opportunity we have.
For the last five years we have been very heavily involved in organising and running Soldiers of Killiecrankie. This year we will be free to commit to even more work highlighting this wonderful part of Scotland.
Chocolate Lounge Tastings, Exhibition & Shop Serving Highland Chocolatier Iain Burnett’s awardwinning Velvet Truffles in stunning surroundings on the banks of the River Tay.
visiting the Chocolate Exhibition next to his chocolate kitchens, and a tasting flight of the Velvet Truffles in Iain Burnett’s Chocolate Lounge. From £15, choose from audio-handset guided or staff guided options for an unforgettable experience. Booking required.
Book one of the new Chocolate Tastings! You will be given a personally guided insight into the world of artisan gourmet chocolate, its craftsmanship and subtleties. You will be taken on a journey through some of the finest couverture chocolates, 1
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Explore Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2019
Chocolate Lounge Tastings, Exhibition & Shop (continued from page 1)
Chocolate Lounge Menu - Taste the World's Best Truffles - Real Coffees & Fine Tea, paired with Award-Winning Velvet Truffles - Famous Truffle Hot Chocolate - Savoury Bites & Cool Drinks - Ganache Ice-Cream - Delicious Cakes You will enjoy an elegant and relaxing atmosphere combined with famously friendly service, offering a delicious menu celebrating chocolate. Trained baristas will welcome you with award-winning hot chocolate and a selection of refreshing warm and cold beverages served at your table. Try tempting savouries and cakes including goodies for allergy sufferers from a gluten free range, or dairy free soya coffee. Iain Burnett's welcoming Chocolate Lounge has indoor and outdoor seating with access to free Wi-Fi. Tea is locally sourced from the Scottish Wee Tea Company and ethically sourced full taste coffee from Matthew Algie.
nache or his luxurious White Hot Chocolate, or even The Classic Hot Chocolate served with cream and marshmallows. It's the ultimate indulgence and a must try when visiting.
....or a delicious slice of Chocolate
a large glass viewing window.
Chocolate Shop
Browse the full range of Iain Burnett's artisan gourmet creations in the tempting Chocolate Shop next to his chocolate kitchen. And there are a few items not made out of chocolate too...
Award Winning Hot Velvet Ganache...
Cake What could be better for a chocolate lover than a slice of rich, moist chocolate Sacher Torte, layered with, and smothered in, rich chocolate fudge icing.
Chocolate Exhibition Try the Best Hot Chocolate in Europe (International Chocolate Awards) - Iain Burnett's thick melted dark chocolate ga-
a journey through chocolate history, cocoa processing methods and little known facts about chocolate. Learn more about the distinct difference between gourmet and mass produced chocolate. There is an opportunity to watch dedicated chocolatiers in action most weekdays while in production, through
The Scottish Chocolate Centre is a four star graded and award winning visitor attraction and consists of a small free multimedia exhibition. Visitors take 2
Contact Us: The Chocolate Lounge is open 7 days 10am - 5pm, last orders 30 minutes before close (11am 4pm January to mid-March) Booking is required for groups larger than 10 Grandtully, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH9 0PL 01887 840775 www.HighlandChocolatier.com
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Explore Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2019
Beyond Adventure—By the River Now in its second year, the By the River Base is the perfect launch pad for your adventure.
rivers, lochs, mountain and forests that this spectacular location.
The new home of Beyond Adventure benefits from the companies 20 years of experience, making them local experts for activities in Perthshire.
For those not wanting to venture outside, why not come down and put your skills to the test on our bouldering wall!
Specialising in canoeing, kayaking, Paddle boarding, mountain biking and hiking there is an adventurous activity for everyone.
For more details call Tel: 01887 829 202 Email: email@beyondadventure.co.uk Web: https://beyondadventure.co.uk/ Address:Beyond Adventure, Riverside, Aberfeldy PH15 2EB.
From half day sessions, to full day trips, explore the many gorgeous
New Team takes the Struan Inn forward for 2019 We were pleased to welcome a new face to our team in September.
The Struan Inn is becoming increasingly popular for large groups and parties. In 2018 we were delighted to welcome 85 members of the Clan Robertson for their farewell lunch at the end of their Clan Gathering. It was a very successful event and they are planning to return again this year. In addition, we hosted numerous birthday, anniversary and retirement functions. The newly installed commercial kitchen has proved to be a great asset in coping with these larger numbers and we look forward to hosting more of these events in 2019.
Evelyn Orr has joined us from the Isle of Bute and takes over the role of Front of House Supervisor, overseeing both the Restaurant and accommodation-side of the business with an emphasis on customer service. Evelyn has extensive experience in the hospitality industry and we are looking forward to her input as we start the new season. There have also been changes in the kitchen, with our Second Chef Anthony Bristol taking over the reigns as Head Chef during 2018. Anthony has been introducing some new and exciting dishes which are proving popular with locals and tourists alike.
We started to offer takeaway fish and chips during 2018 and due to popular demand have expanded our takeaway menu for the new season to include other snacks and meals such as soups, burgers, chicken fillets etc.. With the number of self-catering properties in Old Struan and Glen Errochty on the rise, plus the opening of the Calvine Holiday Park, we are well placed to serve the growing demand for takeaway food in the immediate area.
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Finally we are delighted that The Struan Inn has been re-graded by the AA as a Four-star Inn. Formerly it was only our accommodation that was graded, so well done to the Kitchen and Restaurant team for their hard work.
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Explore Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2019
Victoria’s Here at Victoria’s we are all set and raring to go for another busy season ahead. Our core team of friendly faces remain the same from 2018 and we are looking forward to welcoming you and your customers for delicious food & drink again this year.
dated in late April with some lovely seasonal dishes so keep an eye on Facebook for new offerings as and when they are announced. Our referral wine cards continue to be as popular as ever. If you need more cards over the course of the season, please just email fiona@victorias-pitlochry.co.uk.
2018 saw our Brunch menu really take off alongside our Vegetarian, Vegan & Gluten Free menu options – we try to cater for all dietary requirements.
We’d like to express our sincerest thanks for your support over the years and we look forward to during 2018’s Enchanted Forest although we weren’t quite as blessed with welcoming you and your customers to Victoria’s in 2019. the weather as in the year before. Our winter garden was a success again Here’s hoping autumn 2019 is kind to Fiona & Angus John MacLellan us as it will be back again this year. As we write spring is making its presence known and we’re looking forward to warm sunny days in our lovely flower-adorned courtyard. Our menu will be up-
Open the Box and Reveal more about the Iron Age! To accommodate the collection, the museum space is currently being refreshed thanks to a grant from Museum Galleries Scotland. New shelving has been installed where some of the artefacts will be stored safely in boxes. The Centre's project ‘Opening the Boxes’ will commence shortly when community groups and schools will visit For over 20 years The Scottish and choose a box to open, revealCrannog Centre has been telling the ing the fabulous objects for the story of ancient Crannog dwellers first time to the public. on Loch Tay. The Centre also has a busy 2019 takes that story to a different schedule of events lined-up level as the Centre is proud and de- throughout the season, all centred lighted to bring its collection of arte- around the wonderful stories our facts on site for the first time. artefacts have to tell. 4
The site has been given a face-lift and now features a new crafter’s shelter which has been built by volunteers over winter. Time in the ironic roundhouse and our usual demonstrations still feature in daily tours to the Centre, however, there is so much more to see and do in 2019 at the Crannog!
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Explore Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2019
Food in the Park Live Maclean and Tidelines were particular features for 2018 and have boosted the venue’s reputation for providing awesome live music in a unique setting – so much so that we have been swamped with requests from 100s of new bands and acts 2018 – you were awesome! What a season! 51 nights of live music involving over 40 bands and well over 7000 satisfied customers enjoying Rock, Pop, Blues, Reggae, Folk, Traditional Scottish and Americana Blues all under the clear roof marquee situated in the heart of the Cairngorms National Park’s gateway village – Blair Atholl! With its 40 foot bar, leather sofas, hay bales and chandeliers, the live music venue at Food in the Park delivered superb en-
tertainment from March to October 2018. The SOLD OUT gigs of Dougie
and have managed to book some big names for 2019!! For this coming year the season of live music starts at the end of the first week in April right through until the end of October 2019, with live bands on every weekend! We have a new license for the coming season and are able to provide acoustic music on a Wednesday and Thursday night now too – so watch this space for news of some quieter, more intimate music sessions. You can keep up to date with our full line up at www.foodintheparklive.co.uk which will be fully up to date by March 2019 or stay in touch with Food in the Park LIVE on Facebook. 5
Food in the Park Live Music Sessions play at Food in the Park Restaurant in the centre of Blair Atholl. Bands are on from 8pm until 11pm and the bar is open until 12.30am on Fridays and Saturdays and until 11pm every other night. Food available from the award winning Fish and Chip and Pizza Restaurant and take away until late and you can enjoy your drinks from the 40 foot bar, which includes The Scottish Craft Beer Centre! Eat, drink, get dancing! Museum Car Park, Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, Perthshire, PH18 5SP Tel: 01796 481484
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Explore Highland Perthshire Tourism Newsletter 2019
Aberfeldy Watermill Book Shop, Café and Gallery 2019 promises to be another great year at The Watermill. We are very proud to feature in the new edition of Scotland the Best as a ‘highly recommended’ entry. It’s official: we are among the best in Scotland!
lar. They add new designs regularly – there are now 12 tweeds to choose from. The Watermill is only closed 3 days a year: Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. Otherwise we are open seven days a week, all year round.
We continue to expand our selection of books and this Opening Times:- Monday – year have increased the scope Saturday 10 – 5.30pm (5.00pm of our young adult fiction. in winter). Sunday 11 – 5.30 We have also started a collection of (5.00 in winter) gory in a competition by Perthshire graphic novels, so if you have any ideas Magazine. The café is always a welon what we should stock please let us coming place: The fire is lit in winter know. and in summer we have a sunny terrace We have rolled out a new website where we serve light lunches. We have this year which has more information introduced more vegan and gluten-free and for the first time an online shop. options, alongside, of course, our wonderfully fragrant coffee and sumptuous www.AberfeldyWatermill.com/shop cakes. But above all we want you to come and visit us. The Watermill is a great place to spend the day browsing among the books and enjoying the cosy atmosphere of the café. Our café team go from strength to strength, our soup has become almost legendary – winner of ‘Best Soup’ cateHomer Tweed Sofa
Ceramics from renowned Danish artist Lotte Glob
The Watermill, Mill Street, Aberfeldy PH15 2BG. 01887 822896 info@aberfeldywatermill.com www.aberfeldywatermill.com
The art gallery upstairs in the Watermill has a rolling programme of exhibi- www.facebook.com/watermill.aberfeldy/ tions which change approximately eve- Homer 01887 820802 ry six weeks. http://www.athomer.co.uk/ For details of our art exhibitions please see the website: www.AberfeldyWatermill.com/art/ All round life enhancer’ (P349 of Scotland the Best by Peter Irvine £15.99 Collins)
On the furniture front Homer’s collection of exclusive Aberfeldy-woven tweed furniture has become very popu6
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Old Mill Inn Hot on the heels of a fantastic season in 2018, all the team at The Old Mill Inn are hoping for a repeat performance this year. This wouldn’t be possible without your support and we are sincerely grateful for all the custom you send our way throughout the year. Rest assured a friendly welcome and great hospitality awaits for each and every visitor to The Old Mill Inn. We’re very proud to have won some great awards last season including the Scottish Pub & Bar “Customer Service” Award and the National Pub & Bar award for Best
Don’t panic though, the really popular favourites won’t be going anywhere! Our Quiz Night in February was a huge success and together we raised £2260 for MacMillan Cancer Care and Cornhill Centre in Perth. Thank you to everyone who took part and we’ll be back with another charity quiz next year. Pub in North East Scotland. Before long we’ll know if we have won at the Scottish Hotel Awards in a variety of categories so keep an eye on Facebook for all the news.
We hope to see you over the course of the year at The Old Mill Inn and we wish you all a wonderful season ahead. Team Old Mill Inn
Our music gigs have had a bit of a re-vamp with some fantastic new bands featuring of late, so if you’ve not been in for a while why not pop in and catch a new band in action. On the food front, our menu is just about to have a bit of a seasonal update with some new dishes introduced and some older dishes retired.
Beyond the Tay Challenge - 21st September 2019 The 3rd edition of The Beyond the Tay Challenge will take place this September and is proving to be the most popular yet!
A fun and unique event in Highland Perthshire is a must for those wanting to do something slightly different this year.
Designed to be accessible to all ages and
Partnered with fantastic local companies such as Dewars Aberabilities, the Challenge feldy Distillery, Glen Lyon Coffee combines the beauty of and supporting Tayside Mountain cross country hiking with Rescue, this race is a taste of the best the thrill of paddling things Perthshire has to offer. down the largest river in For more details call Tel: 01887 829 the UK. 202 Email: Choose to enter it solo, email@beyondadventure.co.uk Web: in tandem or part of a https://beyondadventure.co.uk/ Adrelay team - make the dress:Beyond Adventure, Riverside, Challenge your own. Aberfeldy PH15 2EB. 7
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Food of Scotland online from The Courtyard Shop Our website has been up and running for 8 years and every year we introduce new customers to the joy that is the very best food and drink that Scotland has to offer.
This has acted as a catalyst for us to bring in new smoked meat, fish and salmon suppliers. We look forward to continuing to grow this area of the business even more, so watch out for developments and follow us on Facebook where we let everyone know what we are up to.
We send fresh, chilled and ambient hampers to anywhere on mainland Britain for next day delivery, and to the islands on a 48 to 72 hour delivery schedule. the perfect gift for any foodie in your life. Especially busy at Christmas, the website is active all year and great for birthdays and special occasions.
If you want added to our mailing list please go to www.foodofscotland.com and follow the instructions. You can also call us on 01887 830260.
Due to popular demand we have created a Gluten Free and Free From section within the website. Again, the chance to build your own or choose one we have created with both sweet and savoury options.
Build your own or choose one of our new bespoke hampers and send it as
We had worked very closely with Rannoch Smokery over the past few years and were very sorry to say goodbye to them when they closed back in January. We hope to be able to keep all their loyal customers satisfied with what we have to offer.
What’s On Guide—“All local events in one place” Considerable time and effort goes in to collating all the events activities across Highland Perthshire. They are listed on www.PitlochryScotland.co.uk What’s On.
charge) by filling in the Submit Your Event form on the What’s On page. 4. Help your visitors know what is going on, by putting a link on your own web site to the What’s On.
The 4 things you can do:1. Print off the month’s What’s On Guide for your guests. Leave a copy in your reception or in your guest’s rooms. 2. Add your e-mail to “Join our monthly Whats On mailing list” (link on the Whats On page)
Visitors may well stay longer, which benefits the visitor, the area and yourselves. and we will e-mail you the What’s ON guide at the start of each month. 3. Add your own events (free of 8
We are always keen to know your views, suggestions and o bs er v at ions . B es t to e - m ai l james@explorescotland.net or call 01796 473335
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The Schiehallion Hotel The hotel has seen a few changes over the last couple of seasons.
tion of a new menu from our head chef Anthony and daily specials will be available
Firstly our introduction of a Gin Bar which is proving to be very popular. This keeps getting better with the addition of some really nice gins sourced by the management team and some out of the ordinary additions which just on our blackboards. arrived pre-season. The Schiehallion bar is child friendWe offer lunch and dinner service ly and dog friendly and we look after and show all everyone the same any children will be the popular offered a colouring pack and we have sports treats, water, blankets and towels for events on 4 our doggie visitors. screens. This new The hotel has seen a busy season and season is our addition of USB sockets in all the going to see rooms have proved very popular in this an introduc- day and age of technology.
We have just completed work on having a ramped walkway into the hotel entrance which make us more disabled friendly in the bar and dining area. We continue to work on the rooms to ensure maintenance issues are dealt with and the hotel rooms still look like they had just been renovated. More additions and improvements will be happening through the coming season but nothing that will hinder a stay at one of the friendliest hotels in Aberfeldy.
Cluny House Gardens American wood lilies. Many primulas flower at this time including common species like cowslip and oxlip but there are also rare and unusual Asiatic species happy in Cluny’s humus rich Cluny is an exciting mature wood- soil and dappled shade. land garden situated above the north side of the River Tay close to Late spring and early Aberfeldy. As Cluny is organic, our summer is peak viewing at Cluny ethos is to work with nature thus no with an expanding number of colourinsecticides or weed ful candelakillers are used. There bra primulas, is a strong emphasis on European Himalayan species of Turkscap plants and trees but lilies, magnifalso North American icent Giant and Japanese species. Himalayan The garden is carefully managed to lilies, exotic “cobra” lilies and glorious integrate native wild flowers along with blue Himalayan poppies. a wide variety of fungi, lichens and mosses, all adding to a diverse habitat. Autumn brings its own spectacular highlights with trees and shrubs turnSpring brings forth a large variety of ing into a myriad of hues and colours bulbs including carpets of pink Dog’s in particular the Japanese maples and tooth violets and white, pink or crim- the berries of rowans and spindle son Trilliums commonly known as trees. 9
Red squirrels are throughout but make sure to visit when the garden opens in the morning to have the best views. You might also catch sight of a stoat along with the many species of woodland birds present. Please be aware that there are a large number of steps to negotiate but there is a flatter shortcut and strategically placed seats for visitors to absorb the peace and quiet. We are open every day of the year and if you would like to visit Cluny outside our normal opening times of 10am to 6pm then please phone on 07818 065966. John, Wendy, Fiona, Andrew and Alistair.
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Blair Athol Distillery in Pitlochry Blair Athol Distillery the home of the Blair Athol single malt is Diageo’s most visited visitor centre during 2017 and 2018.
We now offer a Blair Athol Day experience for £250 including a tour with senior guide, welcome by the distillery manager, time with an operator, private lunch, 6 deluxe drams, 4 engraved glasses to take home and 20cl of Blair Athol 12yr signed by the Distillery Manager.
The Mash Tun Bar – This year we have made our new Mash Tun bar the focal point of the distillery. We welcome all locals within the area to come visit the bar and get to know your new local. We offer a large portfolio of whiskies coming from all across Scotland. Exciting whisky cocktails featuring the Blair Athol Single Malt and Food pairings. Such as our wonderful Tablet Pairing Stave that features Tablet produced by Stewart Tower Dairy. The Tablet Pairing Stave has been carefully paired with selected whiskies by our Diageo Global Brand Ambassador. We would also like to welcome our new Bartender and Cocktail enthusiast Callum – Callum has recently joined the team in February, he is a wealth of knowledge when it comes to whisky and will be willing to assist with any recommendations or queries re-
garding our whisky portfolio.
We offer complimentary tours to all your employees and complimentary tutored tastings to your local bar staff to allow them the opportunity to build knowledge and flavour profile on the
Also a cocktail enthusiast he will be able to stir or shake up the perfect serve of one of our beautiful Blair Athol cocktails. His amazing experience has been gained from working around the globe in locations such as Sydney, China, France and St. Andrews. Tours – Tours run daily and we have many tours to choose from which can be viewed from malts.com. Standard tour - £9.50 including distillery tour with guide, dram of Blair Athol 12yr and an engraved glass to take home.
fantastic highland malt whisky. This offer stands for the year so please send any new recruits along throughout the season, contact us on 01796482003 or via email at
McKays Hotel, Bar & Restaurant, Pitlochry 2018 was a brilliant year for McKays Hotel which is set to continue in 2019.
all the building work has taken place. I am sure once you see the transformation you will agree it was all worth it!”
Already well underway is the new development for the brand new guest rooms, which will see a modern décor, yet not forgetting our Scottish roots, which will be ready come April.
Andrew McKenzie, (General Manager) says “The room expansion has been in The 9 extra guest rooms will be an the pipeline for a while now so seeing it all amazing addition to the hotel, especial- come together is just amazing. The hard work ly in the summer months when Pitand dedication put into it all has been lochry is booming with tourists. astounding. I would also like to take this A lot of thought and careful planning moment to personally thank guests for their has went gone into the hotel extension. patience throughout the last few months, while 10
April also brings our brand new menu. Staying linked our Scottish tradition by keeping guest favourite dishes, including our Haggis Stack, Steak Pie, Fish & Chips, as well as adding extra Scottish delights – pop in and try some new dishes! Growing with society, we now offer free from/vegan options on a selection of our meals. If there is something you would like our chefs will do their best to accommodate your needs.
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McKays Hotel, Bar & Restaurant, Pitlochry (continued) Thursday evening, hosted by different bands every week. McKays Hotel is a very popular choice for locals and guests at the weekend because of the fantastic live singers/bands.
McKays Floor Plan 1
Guest favourites such a Two Thieves and the burning wood, Scott Ashworth, The Super Zings, Zetor in the Kailyard and many more new bands will be joining us on either Friday or Saturday evenings from 9pm.
staff are second to none at helping you pick the one which suits your taste the best! Cocktails are also very popular at McKays, as well as a selection of nonalcoholic beers! Gin is becoming even more popular as the year goes on, keep an eye out for our ‘Gin of the week’. McKays Hotel Bar boasts an amaz- LIVE @ MCKAYS ing choice of drinks. Having over Springs see the return of OCH AYE 100 Whisky’s to choose from, our bar MCKAYS, a fun filled yet laid back
From May we will also be welcoming Tribute Acts, starting with Queen/Freddie Mercury. Keep an eye out on our social media platforms and in McKays Hotel for more information on all live music. ETAPE Caledonia cycling event lands on Sunday 18th May this year. McKays Hotel is excited to announce that we will be doing an ALL YOU CAN EAT BUFFET, for competitors and supporters, to fill up on their carbs the day before the big event. Wrist bands will be available to purchase from reception from Friday 16th May.
McKays Floor Plan 2 11
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Spirit of Wood New arrivals at Spirit Of Wood! This for both traditional and year we have added even more furnicontemporary tastes. ture ranges to our Aberfeldy showIf you require someroom. thing a little bit different not found in our standard ranges we also provide a made to measure design service for fitted or free standing furniture.
New additions include the Hampton range of velvet sofas, new wool divan beds with a choice of 12 bespoke headboards and a stylish range of rattan garden furniture.
With free local delivery and installation why shop anywhere else. For more
information please email us at conor@spirit-of-wood.com or on 01887 829899
For the year ahead we will continue to offer great prices, customer service & choice. Don’t forget we have over 100 ranges of quality furniture in a variety of woods, finishes & styles and cater
Add your accommodation to our web site
Add your accommodation to our web sites.
We have two web sites that work Scotland.co.uk - A detailed full page, with to promote area. location map, images and full contact details. www.Pitlochry-Scotland.co.uk The most searched for destination 2. www.HighlandPerthshire.com - A is ‘Pitlochry’ so our Pitlochry web listing with image, a few words and site sets out to attract some of full contact details. this traffic and market the whole H o t e l s , B&Bs, Guest House area. (£20 +VAT) + (£10 +VAT) per bedroom Promoting Aberfeldy, Blair Atholl, Starts at £30+VAT for a one bedroom B&B Dunkeld, Kenmore, Pitlochry, Ran- Maximum £125 +VAT noch and Tummel. Caravan Sites – statics (Pitches same as www.HighlandPerthshire.com – is Bunkhouses) (£20 +VAT) +(£20+VAT) per a term that we locals know the area as. This chalet/cottage web site attracts traffic under a variety of search terms. Self Catering—Starts at £40+VAT for one chalet/cottage. Why list your accommodations? Maximum £125 +VAT Backpackers / Bunkhouses. It is free of booking fees £25 +VAT Your web site receives two <20 beds 21 – 40 £50 +VAT links from established local web sites (all good in Google’s eyes, 41 – 60 £75 +VAT 61 + Maximum £125 +VAT for ranking) Send your details to james@explorescotland.net or call 01796 w w w . P i t l o c h r y - 473335.
List your accommodation on:1.
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Celebrating 10 Happy Years of Karelia House 2019 sees Karelia House celebrating our tenth anniversary - how quickly ten years has gone by and how we have grown into Scotland’s Premier Crafting destination.
offers and workshops. Our Karelia House Coffee Shop offers a superb selection of homemade cakes, biscuits, soups and so much more so while you’re browsing the shelves for yarn or fabric you can also enjoy some delicious refreshments.
The Scottish Tourist Board have awarded us a four star rating in 2018. Throughout our 10th anniversary year we will be hosting a number of events highlighting some of the brands we stock in the shop and cele- our tables for you to try out. brating the health and wellbeing benefits of getting crafty! Keep an eye on our website or even better sign up for our newsletter to There are little knitting projects on stay updated on what’s happening with
Loch Tay Soft Fudge Another season of fudge making at The Courtyard Shop in Kenmore is already under way, although it seems to be less seasonal and more of a full time job.
as well as from our www.FoodOfScotland.com website. It’s always a talking point when customers have the chance to watch our Master Fudge Maker, Mike Davies, create his special best sellers or his seasonal or event inspired one offs.
We have been making our fudge here in the shop for the past two years and over this time have built up a recipe book of flavours that keeps getting bigger and better.
We have begun to start taking orders for wedding favours, birthday gifts, and are now looking to supply other small independent retailers and coffee shops with our very special "Loch Tay Soft Fudge"
We decided that it was now well enough established to be given its own official name, so our well loved
Taymouth Courtyard Shop Kenmore PH15 2HN 01887 830756 soft fudge will now be called "Loch Tay Soft Fudge" We hope to do a little launch around Easter with chances to win your favourite fudge flavours by keeping your eye on Facebook. We sell our fudge in the shop and in Cones in Aberfeldy, 13
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Loch Tay Safaris offer April sees the return of Loch Tay Safaris – We would like to offer you the opportunity to experience a free LTS sailing as soon as the season starts!
She can seat up to 12 passengers in comfortable, individual seats. With on deck viewing platforms, front and back, you can feel the wind in your hair and connected to everything that makes Loch Tay so memorable. Book Please get in touch. Our o n l i n e a t h t t p s : / / state of the art RIB (Rigid www.lochtaysafaris.net/book/ Inflatable Boat), Iolaire is the BIGGEST and FAST- Daily departures from April to NoEST boat on Loch Tay! vember.
Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve “Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve covers 98 hectares near Dunkeld. From early April to late August, the star attraction is a pair of breeding ospreys, which nest just 150 metres from our observation hide. You can watch our famous osprey via our webcam or come along to the visitor centre to see them for yourself. The centre is open 10.30am – 5pm, Monday – Sunday, March 1st – October 31st, and 10.30am-4pm, Fri, Sat, Sun, Nov 1st – Feb 28th. Visitor centre charges apply. With a diverse range of events being held at the Visitor Centre this year there is sure to be something for
dow and a short walk to the hides gives the opportunity to admire goldeneye, great crested grebe and a host of water birds, as well as beaver and osprey.
everyone. Our dynamic visitor centre team of staff and volunteers hope to be able to show case Loch of the Lowes at it’s very best. For more information about events visit: https://scottishwildlifetrust.org.uk/eve nts/ or follow us on Facebook and Twitter.” 2019 is a double celebration as it’s the 50th Anniversary of the reserve and of the return of ospreys to the reserve. To mark the occasion, we will be running exhibitions covering these eventful years in the visitor centre. There are also the antics of red squirrels, great spotted woodpeckers and nuthatch to enjoy from our viewing win14
There is nothing like the experience of seeing an osprey at close quarters, hearing their cries and seeing them soar above the loch or even be lucky enough to watch them diving, feet first, into the water to catch fish right in front of you! Thank you. Please see our special 50th logo attached, as well as a few other photos. Osprey – credit Colin Smith, Great crested Grebe credit Marion Moore, Squirrel credit Scottish Wildlife Trust. Please note that visitor centre charges have increased slightly. Adult £4.50, Concession £4.00, Family £8.50 and Child £1.
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Highland Safaris tweeds, binoculars, and pocket money items suitable for children. 2. New Bike Trails We have new Biking Trails at Highland Safaris, a new challenge for a new season, designed to make the most of our stunning natural surroundings. You 1. New Gift Shop Stock can also hire a bike here at Highland Check out our new Spring ranges at Safaris – we have an impressive fleet of getting up close and personal to the Highland Safaris, personally selected by Scott Bikes. magnificent Red Deer – Britain’s largus to reflect the beautiful Highland est land mammal. 3. New Play Park Perthshire environment in which we 5. Café – using locally sourced prooperate. Supporting local suppliers, Youngsters will love our new play park duce, and with our own Glen Lyon we’ve assembled an affordable and at Highland Safaris. A lovely spot next blended coffee, our cafe enjoys a suinnovative selection of gifts for the to our café with its views over the perb location at Highland Safaris, ofoutdoor enthusiast, the bird watcher, Appin Valley. fering spectacular views across the Apthe fisherman, the keen walker, and so pin Valley. Or sit outside on warmer 4. Visit our Red Deer Centre – A on, along with jewellery, books, days. Dog friendly too. fantastic family friendly experience
Adult Adventure Tasters with Wee Adventures wellbeing, as well as your productivity back at work. We probably all suffer from a subconscious bias to staying indoors in winter, it’s cold and dark out there! So we deliberately launched our brand new Adult Adventure Tasters in January knowing that the benefits of getting outdoors would be even more keenly building, and an introduction to abseiling. felt and appreciated. A muddy, smiley child enjoying the New friends were made, spirits were outdoors is probably what most people A mixed group of adults, some who boosted and a fresh perspective gained. associate with Wee Adventures - which committed to the whole series and othEveryone can benefit from a Wee Aders who joined for specific activities, is brilliant, and an important part of venture in their life! temporarily replaced their midweek who we are! routine with an adventurous walk/ We can’t wait to get out for the But we are also working hard to Spring/Summer Series at the end of scramble; firelighting and campfire increase awareness of another asApril. cooking; tree climbing and rope pect of what ‘Wee’ means to us: the swings; bush craft skills and shelter Will you join us? The taster sessions micro adventure. are suitable for locals or visitors alike. Adventures come in all shapes and Please get in touch with Sarah on sizes for all ages. A morning carved out 07780 675859 or saof busy grown up diaries spent outrah@weeadventures.com if you have doors learning new skills or refreshing any questions or just book your place old ones, meeting new people, being online at: https://webcollect.org.uk/ active in nature and injecting a giant weeadventures/event/adult-adventurebreath of fresh air into the daily routine tasters. can really increase your overall sense of 15
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The Auld Smiddy Inn On the 3rd weekend of the month it’s Ceylon Sean’s Curry Weekend (though we do always have curries on the menu) - really popular and booking advised. 17 - 19 May Etape Weekend - booking advised. 26th & 27th July Seafood Extravaganza - very popular with visitors and locals alike. A huge selection of shellfish & fish Open daily throughout April to Nodishes - always a sell out event! Get vember serving lunches 12 - 2.30pm your booking in the diary. and dinners 5pm - 8.45pm.
We had great success last year with the big BBQ events in the garden; look out at the restaurant for dates (weather permitting) Coming soon - our home infused Gin flights. Come and try 3 of our gins and receive your Smiddy Shot engraved glass to keep. There will be some new faces for you on the team and some familiar faces that are still here. If you need something special call us and we will endeavour to help.
Scottish Craft Beer Centre There are over 60 breweries in Scotland producing some of the finest craft beers, ciders and gins in the UK and, fortunately, The Scottish Craft Beer Centre in Blair Atholl is central to them all and can easily bring them all under one roof for easy access for any crafty fans! The Scottish Craft Beer Centre has a packed menu of nearly 80 of Scotland’s craft beers from a wide selection of Scotland’s breweries, plus 6 of the best Scottish craft ciders and a fabulous selection of Scottish craft gins from 10 of Scotland’s craft gin producers.
uniforms.
The large storyboard showing the craft beer making process that went up inside the centre in 2018 proved to be very interesting for customers and provided an extra element to our services, as did the updated menus and refreshed staff
In 2019 we are offering extended off -sales license hours, so a bottle can now be purchased from the bar and taken home unopened right up to closing time! Plenty of reasons to stock up on the more hard-tocome-by specimens!
Each drink has its own story and fascinating blend of unique ingredients, which are all described perfectly within the in-house Within the menus. premises is
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the award-winning and ‘Visit Scotland’ accredited Fish and Chip restaurant and Pizza restaurant (Food in the Park) with a cosy Coffee House too. On a Friday and Saturday night you can enjoy your drinks with some live music from some of Scotland’s top bands inside our warm and unique marquee! Open from 11am until late every day from Easter to October 2019. For further information visit www.scottishcraftbeercentre.co.uk or ‘Like’ our page on Facebook. Tel: 01796 481484 Email contact via the website Address: Museum Car Park, Blair Atholl, Perthshire, PH18 5SP
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Rowan Flagship store at Karelia House Karelia House is now one of the exclusive Rowan Yarn Flagship stores in the UK.
involved with. To encourage all ages and all abilities to knit these amazing garments, we’re launching some yarn tasting events where you can come along and try some of the yarns and accessories and learn some new techniques or even just learn to knit.
We stock their amazing range of luxury yarns and inspiring patterns, so there’s no shortage of designs and yarns to inspire you to create gorgeous garments and accessories.
Our customers can look forward to of– knitted in Pure wool worsted and You’ll be amazed at how simple many the latest Knit Along by Martin Sto- embellished with beads this is one not of these projects are so come along rey which will be available in April and give it a go. to missed. and is a project to enjoy and be proud Also helping us celebrate our 10th birthday will be West Yorkshire Spinners and Baa Ram Ewe with a couple weeks dedicated to projects and designers from these superb brands. Again look out for the promotions, projects and best of all the workshops which these amazing brands will be
Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre Conference Facilities Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre has purpose built conference and meeting facilities that are available for hire.
available and we can cater for all dietary requirements. Open 7 days a week. Tel: 01796 484111 www.PitlochryDam.com
These are ideal for local groups, businesses as well as those looking for an easy accessible meeting point between Inverness and the central belt.
The added bonus is the catering, which is freshly prepared for you What is on offer? by the Salmon Leap Café. Home Meeting Room will seat 50 peo- made soup, scones and cakes. Wellple comfortably in theatre style. known for the delicious coffee and For smaller numbers the room pizzas. Vegan options are always can be split in two with a sound proof wall. Up-to-date equipment includes Smart TV, Wi-Fi and Conference Phone. Free parking All this at very competitive prices. It is an ideal location for Conferences and Meetings overlooking the iconic Pitlochry Dam and Fish Ladder. 17
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The Fountain This busy eatery is a popular destination for families as each child with a paying adult is only charged £1 for their meal.
Saturday nights—If it’s night life you are looking for in Aberfeldy then come along on a Saturday night, we will either have live music from a variety of great artists or occasionally we have a themed Disco.
All food is home cooked on the premises by the head chef Catriona who has been in her position for the last 25 years, so she knows her business and we serve food all day.
Halloween is always a great night to get your creative hat on as there is prizes to be won.
Whether it’s a nice hearty meal or a drink at the bar you can always We are hoping for a lovely summer but be assured that our local staff will be friendly and knowledgeable should you should the weather be inclement we have any questions. Daily specials will be on the boards have our log burner which will be used on colder days. and we are also dog friendly. Situated in the Square in Aberfeldy. It is easy to find and you will always get a warm welcome.
2019 News from Walk Scotland Walk Scotland enjoyed a busy summer delivering guided walks for a variety of individuals, families, groups and nationalities.
Looking further ahead Emma would like to offer the opportunity for planned group walks which individuals and friends or couples can join as part of a larger group. Whilst also developing Highland Perthshire wildlife walks too.
Our navigation courses also continue to be popular for those keen to learn a new skill and improve their own navigational ability. We enjoyed some superb hill days out on Ben Vrackie, Schiehallion, Beinn a’Ghlo and Ben Lawers. At lower levels woodland, wildlife and historical in-
Booking in advance is recommended although we will always do our best to accommodate short notice bookings. terest walks were favourites. In 2019 we are continuing to focus on tailor-made single and multi-day guided walks and skills courses. We cover all of Highland Perthshire and beyond, with the Cairngorms, Glencoe, Glen Nevis and Torridon areas already seeing bookings for this year. 18
Walk Scotland works together with a number of guides who are based across Tayside. Please contact Emma with any questions at all by email emma@walkscotland.net or mobile 07747 883464.
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No 1 for Brother Sewing and Embroidery Machines at Karelia We are the top retailer of Brother sewing machines in Scotland and we are delighted to demonstrate the fabulous range of machines available for all skill levels.
which is why we offer full training with each machine purchased at Karelia House. If you are hooked on The Great British Sewing Bee and inspired to start sewing, then Karelia House is the destination for you.
We use the machines in our workshops which gives customers the opportunity to try out different machines and techniques. We feel it’s not just about the machine but also about giving a
great service and ongoing support
With the buzz words being ‘capsule wardrobe’ we have weekly classes and one day workshops to take your sewing to another dimension. www.kareliahouse.co.uk
Pitlochry Highland Nights The Vale of Atholl Pipe Bands ever popular Highland Night season starts on Monday 27th May and carries on every Monday night until Monday 2nd September.
9pm with the gates open at 7pm. In the event of wet weather, the show is held in the Town hall. Admission: Adults £7, Children £1.
“Highland Nights” are a traditional Scottish evening with performances from the Vale of Atholl Pipe Band, Highland and Scottish Country Dancers, singers and accordionists. The Ground, Pitlochry from 7.30pm to show is held in the Recreation
Visiting bands and dancers love to come and join us. Our first visiting group are the Spessart Highlanders Pipe Band from Aschaffenburg in Germany, coming on the 3rd June.
The Black Watch Inn and Croft Restaurant The Black Watch has seen a few Our early birds’ menu has proved to changes over the last couple of sea- be very popular and is served between sons we have new booth seating in the 5pm and 6pm. bar area. All major sports are played on the 4 A great choice of beers wines and spir- TV’s. If you fancy your hand, we have its, serving lunch and dinner in both a pool table and a dart board that are the bar and The Croft Restaurant. The Croft is an ideal place for a larger group booking as the restaurant is adjacent to the bar so you are guaranteed a peaceful atmosphere for a meal.
open for anyone to use. Summer is coming and we hope that the weather is fantastic as we have a large beer garden which is ideal on a hot summers day to sit and relax and watch the world go by, we also serve food on the decking should the weather be with us. Our friendly staff are always on hand to offer information on the local area and as a dog friendly bar they are more than happy to suggest walks for the pooches.
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Taste Perthshire Our Christmas shop was a huge success again this winter and the decoration throughout our Restaurant was very well received.
Taste Perthshire is gearing up for to 8pm, 7 days a week – and breakanother busy season in their retail & fast meetings are now a regular occurrestaurant operation on the outskirts of rence. Perth at Bankfoot. Highland Cows—The introduction 2019 marks the start of some inter- of the Highland Cows at Taste Perthesting developments within the busi- shire continues to be a great draw for ness with motions in place to develop the business with locals and tourists the retail areas and grounds. alike stopping specifically to meet the herd before making use of the great Customer Service is a highlight at facilities available indoors. Taste Perthshire with the team consistently winning praise on review We’ll shortly be launching a live sites such as TripAdvisor. webcam which will look directly onto the cow’s barn and field so that folk General Manager June Goodfellow has can tune in from around the world. also been singled out as a customer service and regional hospitality hero by Flora, one of our cows has just delivVisitScotland’s Thistle Awards as well ered a bull calf and we’ll be launching as the Perthshire Chamber’s Star the webcam soon on Awards where she was a finalist in the www.PerthshireWebcam.co.uk. Employee of the Year category. This year will see another calendar of free food You can be assured of a warm welcome and excellent hospitality on your & drink tastings which showcase local suppliers visit to Taste Perthshire. who stock their products The restaurant at Taste Perthshire at Taste Perthshire. Visioffers a great space for dining and the tors do enjoy the chance menus feature local seasonal produce. to “try before they buy” Afternoon Teas and Breakfasts have and sample products that become increasingly popular. they may not ordinarily Taste Perthshire is open from 8am have purchased. 20
Throughout the festive season we ran a raffle in aid of Rachel House in Kinross (CHAS) where the winner was presented with the large plus polar bear teddy from our Christmas tree display. Thanks to the generosity of our customers we raised almost £2000. As we write, Spring is emerging all around us and our shops are abundant with lovely new ranges from clothing to gifts, home & interiors to new food & drink products. Come in and have a browse! Last of all, we’d like to say a big thank you for your custom and referrals over the years. We really do appreciate it and look forward to seeing you all again over the course of 2019.
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The Courtyard Shop Kenmore We are looking forward to another busy season in Kenmore. It has been a strong start with the February half term being the best we have had in our 14 years and tourist numbers holding up well since then.
what to do and see when in the area.
are a customer or if you would like info on a stall.
We can do this because we have a team who have been here, in some cases, Look out for our “shop within a since we opened and we all know how shop” idea which we will introduce to important the beauty of our whole area our gift area from Easter onwards. is to attracting visitors. Dog friendly throughout, we look We serve as a recognised Visitor With even more local suppliers in forward to welcoming you all here to Information Point on behalf of Visit our deli this year, our new ranges of Kenmore as part of your Highland Scotland and can supply all our visifrozen meals sell out as quickly as we Perthshire adventure. tors with face to face information of can restock them. Open every day 9am to 5pm With so many people taking short breaks we know folks will want to eat out when here, but on the nights they stay in they will find meal ideas not available in any supermarket. Arran Ice Cream made its earliest appearance ever in February this year and continues to be a pull for customers of all ages. We are having three outdoor pop up markets this year after the success of them over the last couple of years. One will be at Easter and the other two during the busy summer holidays. Check Facebook for dates and details if you
MIcroadventures For those wanting a true taste of adventure but unsure how to make it happen, one of Beyond Adventures’ microadventures could be perfect for you.
Sleep under the stars and enjoy feasts at the campsite an experience that will give you memories to last a lifetime.
For more details call :Tel: 01887 829 202 families and groups of friends wanting email@beyondadventure.co.uk Suitable for all ages and abilities, to do something a wee bit different. https://beyondadventure.co.uk/ AdNew for 2019, the Beyond Adventures team will teach you everything you need to know for camping in the wilderness. 2 days and 1 night of exploration by foot, canoe, kayak or paddleboard is the perfect length for those wanting to experience the bliss that expedition life can bring. 21
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Moulin Hotel - Cottages, Brewery, Inn 2019 had a busy start as we begun refurbishment of the main public areas of the hotel (not the pub!).
room which we look forward to welcoming you to upon opening. The Pub was uninterrupted during the recent renovations, minus a wee spruce up here and there.
We are really proud of the finished results from the traditional face-lift the hotel has been given, we hope you like it as much as we do. MacPhersons Cottage, our selfcatering, within Moulin Square has turned into a perfect country
Our Ales continue to grow in popularity with their bottles popping up in more stores throughout Scotland. year, we are looking forward to the opening of our new grill restaurant “The Poachers Den” within The Moulin Hotel. Focussing on Scottish produce and traditional hospitality. Our new menu and log burner stove is creating a lovely informal dining In 2018, we were shortlisted for Scottish Gastro Pub of The Year and look forward to seeing what the new chefs have in store for the pub in the up-coming season.
hideaway for larger families or groups. With three large bedrooms and two bathrooms and an open-plan downstairs; the refurbishment has created a very sociable and cosy space, which is also dog friendly.
We look forward to welcoming you soon! Heather & Clara
Welcoming a new kitchen team this
Cones in The Square Aberfeldy vours and as well as some dairy-free sorbets. There is plenty of space for all sorts of bikes, motorised or not, to park up in We also have a selection of ground the town. coffees and teas to take away or to have while sitting at our tables in The We are right in the heart of Aberfeldy Square and just watching the world go and are about to have our Square deby. veloped to make it an even more pleasurable place to spend some time. This year we will also have our own home made “Loch Tay Soft Fudge” Open every day (when the sun shines) for sale in our best selling flavours. Enjoy, as many do, a walk around The Cones in The Square in Aberfeldy is Birks of Aberfeldy, and give yourself a open from April until October, sell- treat when you finish by visiting Cones. ing ice cream, fudge, and traditional gifts (whatever they are!) We are also a must stop spot for groups of bikers and cyclists who We specialise in Taste of Arran ice enjoy the roads around Highland cream, with a great selection of fla- Perthshire and beyond. 22
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Caffe Scozia, Pitlochry’ Italian Restaurant The start of 2019 has already been absolutely fantastic for Caffe Scozia with nothing but 5* reviews from every guest, which is set to continue throughout the rest of the year with new management, staff & menu’s.
allocated to accommodate guests and their furry friends whether you are nipping in for a relaxing coffee and cake, or you’re having an evening meal. Fresh drinking water is always available.
Management dream team Ryan & Mayo have only been with Caffe Scozia a few short months but have already made their mark on the establishment with their glowing personalities and charisma, having received nothing but praise from staff and guests alike.
Spring sees a brand new menu carefully put together, keeping all of your favourite dishes, and adding fresh new main meals as well as delicious desserts such as CIOCCOLATO SCOZIA DOUGH BALLS.
Moving swiftly with the times by ship began here and continues to bloom as they take on the management offering a bigger choice of Free From options, such as vegan and roll between them. gluten free cheeses, pastas, ice creams, They are very strong individually, as well as supplying oat milk and cocohowever together they are sure to nut milk for hot beverages, and organic make the Italian restaurant an even wine! bigger success then it already is. They both are very excited to welcome eve- The new menu will launch the ryone, returning and new guests, to beginning of Caffe Scozia. April! One thing they have done much to the delight of locals and tourists, is Look out for the launch of Together they have a fantastic flair that Caffe Scozia is now DOG the brand new and love for our food and drink offer- FRIENDLY! Caffe Scozia ing, along with their passion for cusHaving a dog themselves, the pair felt local card, tomer service they are creating a wonlike making Caffe Scozia dog friendly which will give derful ambience within the restaurant. was a must so the whole family could you 10% off Ryan and Mayo met almost 5 years enjoy a meal together! your food and ago and had their first date in Caffe The downstairs restaurant has been drink bills! Scozia, (at table 4!) so their partner-
Prince of India Bangladeshi and Indian Cuisine Offering a fantastic selection of dishes, including authentic Balti dishes, Chef’s recommendation & European dishes (for non-curry eaters in the party). Centrally positioned just off the main street on Station Road, Pitlochry. 3-course lunch £7.95, children under 12 eat for £4.95, 12noon to 4.00pm (to 2pm winter).
Main menu is served from 5pm to 10.30pm. There is a 10% discount on all Take Away meals. OPEN 7 days 12 noon to 10.30pm in season 57 Station Road, Pitlochry, PH16 5AN Tel: 01796 472275 /473770
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Pine Trees Hotel Pitlochry is open to non residents
Food in the Park—Blair Atholl Since it’s award in 2017 for being a ‘UK Top 20 Fish and Chip Restaurant of the Year’ in the National Fish & Chip Awards, Food in the Park went on to gain the award of being a ‘UK Top 60 Fish and Chip Shop’ in 2018 as we put the focus of the judges towards our Take-Away facility this time instead of our restaurant for these annual awards – proving that we have what it takes to provide the very best for all our customers, whether they are staying to eat in or are taking their food away!
firmly on the map as a Top Class eatery for everyone to experience!
only the quality of the fish and chips being plated up is of the highest standard, but that the customers’ experience is second to none. Recognising Food in the Park’s high standards and commitment to responsible sourcing, particularly from Scottish producers, Visit Scotland have also The rigorous judging process be- upheld their accreditation for another hind this award ensures that not year, which puts Food in the Park 24
New for 2018 was our very first wedding! We played host to a gorgeous couple who got married in the marquee amidst beautiful white backdrops, hay bales covered in white linen, tables adorned with jars filled with fairy lights and a stunning flower arch for the ceremony itself.
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Food in the Park (continued) After the ceremony the guests enjoyed Fish and Chips and then mingled with the crowds to enjoy one of our awesome bands – it really was a unique wedding and has fuelled a lot of interest from prospective couples!! We now have bookings for 2019 and 2020 and would welcome more. 2018 was a very busy year not only because of increased visitors to the area, but because of the Scout Jamborette that takes place in the grounds of Blair Castle every two years.
within the premises and Food in the Park is fully licensed to serve all the Scottish Craft Beer, Cider and Gin alongside the food offerings, plus of course anything else you’d like from the 40 foot bar! Come and enjoy your Fish and Chips in our large marquee with they prefer a Fish Supper! comfy sofas, hay bales and picnic tables in front of a live band, or sit out Throughout the 2018 season Food the front of our restaurant overlooking in the Park continued to host Live the beautiful views of the Cairngorm Music sessions every weekend, National Park! which have now become so popular they have started to attract some big names in the music industry who will be playing here in 2019! Watch out for news of the 2019 line up at www.foodintheparklive.co.uk and on Facebook (www.facebook.com/foodintheparklive)
Food in the Park still remains one of the easiest places to access in the area with a central location and large car park. There are many reasons to visit over Suffice to say that sausages cooked and above the great food! over an open fire are obviously not quite enough for Scouts these days – The Scottish Craft Beer Centre is The Scouts and Scout Leaders were, once more, on great form and made Food in the Park their base for the fortnight when they had any free time!
Open every day from Easter to October 2019. Opening hours are 11am until 8pm and a little later on live band nights! Tel: 01796 481484. Orders can be taken over the phone for collection.
Cafe Biba Directly opposite the Pitlochry War Memorial, Cafe Biba is a deceptively large licensed restaurant offering great home-cooked food in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere.
origin coffee bean for anyone who wants to try something a wee bit different. Smooth and full, bodied every time because we LOVE coffee at Cafe Biba!
Open from 9.30am 'til late serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, there is a varied children's menu, a pizza menu AND a new 2 or 3 course pre theatre menu ensuring everyone is catered for.
with our fabulous Scottish coffee Also new for 2019 comes an exciting roasters using 100% Arabica beans as new coffee range in association standard AND an ever changing single 25
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Confident Canoeing Courses with Wee Adventures Canoeing is an awesome way to explore Highland Perthshire, a whole new perspective is gained from the water.
but they were also escaping the job list and finding some elusive ‘calm time’ in busy lives. Add to that a good natter with like minded souls over a delicious Glen Lyon coffee and it’s a win-win!
It’s also one of the best activities that we know of for families to enjoy altogether, from toddler to grandparent. Highland Perthshire is blessed with lots of people who love the outdoors and have either been wanting to dust off the canoe sitting at the bottom of their garden or refresh once loved canoeing skills so that they can confidently explore with friends or go out as a family.
2018 saw the launch our mid-week, half day, Confident Canoeing Courses as an informal and fun way to learn and/or improve basic and intermediate canoe skills.
Confident Canoe Courses start again in April 2019. Please get in touch with Sarah on 07780 675859 or sarah@weeadventures.com if you have any questions or just book your place online at: https://webcollect.org.uk/ weeadventures/event/confident canoeing.
Starting with introductory courses on Loch Tay and Loch Faskally we then moved on to River Courses for those wanting to develop their skills on moving water. The courses were hugely popular! Not only were people learning a new skill and using their brains differently
A new era for Pitlochry Dam’s Fish Observation Chamber For over 60 years, the Pitlochry Dam Fish Ladder Observation Chamber has been an important part of the Pitlochry community, allowing locals and tourists alike to view the safety of members of the public. salmon on their journey upstream. We recognise the importance of the After six decades of service, the de- observation chamber to the local sign, location and access to the Fish community and work is already unLadder Observation Chamber is no derway to develop a new viewing longer in line with SSE’s strict safe- arrangement for the fish ladder to help ty standards and so we have made the bring it up to the same standard as difficult decision to close the observa- SSE’s Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre, tion chamber permanently to ensure which has welcomed over 300,000 visitors since it first opened in 2017. Whilst work continues to develop this new viewing arrangement, the fish count and live footage from the fish pass will be available in the visitor centre, which is open seven days a week.
our number one value at SSE and, although this is the end of an era for the observation chamber, it’s just the start of our work to develop a new viewing arrangement for the fish ladder. “We are very grateful to the local community for their continued support of the new Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre and recent reinstatement of the Pitlochry Dam path and hope that future work in the area will help show just how committed we are to Pitlochry’s tourist economy. “We are looking forward to working with key local stakeholders to ensure the long-term sustainability and wide enjoyment of SSE’s Pitlochry Dam visitor offering.”
More information on the plans for the Jerry Williamson, SSE Renewables Di- fish ladder viewing arrangements will rector of Operations, said: “Safety is be shared over the coming months. 26 March 2019 26
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The Courtyard Bar and Brasserie at Kenmore bistro which has a large outside area for the summer and open fires should the weather not be so warm, serving food all day from breakfast through to dinner you can choose from a great selection on the menu or maybe just a coffee and a scone we have that on offer too.
Situated close the the banks of Loch Tay, The Courtyard is a busy
Family and Dog friendly we offer treats blankets and water for your pooches and with so many areas to walk the dogs they
are usually glad of a drink of water and a little lied down. Our bar is very informal with lots of comfy couches to relax on and read the papers and wile away a few hours in a very relaxed friendly atmosphere. The restaurant is a little more formal but still very relaxed and the friendly staff will put you at your ease for the perfect dining experience, booking is recommended as it can get very busy.
Drummonds of Pitlochry – Pitlochry’s affordable meals 2019 is our 20th year having opened on Highland Games Day 1999.
front of house and in the kitchen. Opening hours - 10am to 11pm all year round, (Kitchen closes 10pm in summer, winter closes 6pm, we will stay open later for prior bookings).
All our food is sourced locally using the local butcher, it is basic good old home cooking without all the frills and fancy twirls of modern restaurants. Affordable meals - High Teas — two courses for £13 and three courses £15, includes a choice of either tea or coffee. Half portions for those who prefer cheques only (no credit or debit cards). smaller meals. Gluten free meals too. Our outside seating, is well away Kids meals—£6 has fresh chicken from the smoker’s area, ideal for those and fresh fish (not frozen) and includes who want their dogs by their side. orange or apple juice. Half portion Drummonds is a family restaurant meals off the main menu too. in every sense of the word, with Please remember we take cash and members of the family working at the
Find us - under the railway arch, just passed Pitlochry War Memorial Gardens.
6 ways to drive more traffic to your website Web Smart Media Ltd 6 Ways to Gain More Bookings and Website Traffic through Local Area Content on your website.
your favourite picks are - you could do this as 'Manager’s Picks’ or 'Local’s Favourites’
1) Speak With A Unique Voice Guests aren’t looking for the same old story about your local area. They want to know something new, unique or special. Your content should be written with a sincerity and authority that only a true local could portray. Be opinionated, tell the guest what
2) Create Personalized Travel Guides These can be based off of interests (e.g. shopping, hill walking, theatre plays), visitor demographic (e.g. families, couples, honeymooners), or events (e,g local concerts, highland games), etc. This is where you can 27
get specific with your target audience. Don’t just create a travel guide based on the outdoors; create a travel guide based off hill walking, river tay fishing, and so on. 3) Leverage Your Location Let visitors know what’s near your property. This is an opportunity to rank for non-brand search terms (e.g. “hotels near pitlochry festival theatre”; “local walks from pitlochry”) and is a
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6 ways to drive more traffic to your website Web Smart Media Ltd (continued from pg 27) top of funnel type strategy. Include as much information as possible on these pages. If you have the time and budget, possibly develop a map of the area to show people how close you are to these places. The location of your property can be one of the biggest factors when a guest book their stay.
Giving people a reason to come visit the area is a sure way to boost business in the slower seasons. Take a break from sending your email database deals and try the helpful approach by showing people what’s going on.
4) Build Partnerships with Local Businesses This not only builds trust amongst local businesses who will recommend you within their circle of influence, but can lead to incentives for guests, such as e.g. discounted golf or discounts at certain partner restaurants.
5) Gain More Exposure Through Paid Search Ads For Google and Bing: target non-brand keywords, like “hotels near pitlochry festival theatre” or “hotel in Pitlochry main street”. Use this space to promote the location of your property.
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The Loft Restaurant – Blair Atholl. Awards. We were delighted to receive the 2018 Scottish Enterprise Award for the region’s leading restaurant and bar. Thank you the many Trip Advisor reviews – lots of really lovely comments.
quirements. Open Hours:- Open 12noon to 3pm and 5pm to last orders 8.30pm . March to May – 5 days (closed Mon and Tues). June & July – 6 days (closed Tues). August – open 7 days. September & October 6 days (closed Tues)
Live music and wine tasting night details will be posted on our Facebook Page Our Menu. - Over the last three years we have learnt what our customers like. Each new season allows us to make a few changes to the menu. The every changing Chef’s Specials board, allows us to try out new dishes and offer dishes using seasonal pro-
duce. Our lunch menu offers lite bites for those who do not a whole meal and more substantial dishes for those who do. Many of our visitors from the continent like to eat at lunch times. The popular evening menu is geared for fine dining. Parties, groups and events We can accommodate coaches, which is ideal for lunch and a visit to Blair Castle . If you have a special occasion to celebrate please get in touch and we will do our very best to meet your re28
We look forward to welcoming you to the Loft Restaurant, in Blair Atholl, located behind the Tilt Hotel on the way to Pitlochry Golf right. Adrian and Nicoletta. Tel:-01796 481377.