Depart Edinburgh 10.00hrs and drive north over the Forth Road Bridge. Turn off the motorway at Kelty and travel through the Ochil Hills past Knockhill racing track, Powmill and Rumbling Bridge. Before the industrial revolution the Ochils used to be the centre of Scotland's leather industry, when Crieff was the country's central cattle market. We also pass Gleneagles - a 5 star hotel with it's own golf courses and the Mark Phillips Equestrion School.
Into Crieff, which had to be rebuilt after being destroyed during the Jacobite Rebellions for harbouring Bonnie Prince Charlie. It was restored by James Drummond, the Duke of Perth. On the outskirts of Crieff, we reach Glenturret Distillery, the oldest (legal!) distillery in Scotland, established in 1775. Arriving here at 11.30, you will be taken on a tour of the distillery and find out all about our famous drink. You will of course get a tasting after the tour so you can try it for yourself. We will also have lunch here and you can sample a few more drams at the bar if you wish!
Leaving at 13.30 we continue north into the Highlands through the Sma' Glen - a beautiful road and gateway to the Highlands, where Bonnie Prince Charlie fled as he was pursued by the English and the lowland Scots. We cross over the heather covered moors to the Birks or Aberfeldy. Arrive here approx 14.15 for an hours walk through this stunning forested gorge with it's cascading waterfalls. It's not surprising that Robert Burns, our National Bard was inspired to write a poem here. If anyone prefers, they can be dropped off in the town of Aberfeldy, home to the Black Watch Regiment.
We leave at approx 15.30 and travel eastwards to visit Dunkeld, the ancient capital of Scotland. Set magnificently on the River Tay and with it's 14th century cathedral, Dunkeld makes a peaceful stop before returning south to Edinburgh over the Forth Road Bridge. Arrive approx 18.30.
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