Hermitage Forest
The Hermitage, by Dunkeld, is a beautiful spot. Walking through some of the tallest trees in Britain, you reach Black Linn Falls where the River Braan cascades into a narrow gorge. In season mighty salmon can be seen leaping up these falls and on upstream to their spawning grounds, a truly memorable sight.
Many species of coniferous and broadleaved trees thrive on the rich Perthshire soil and particularly fine examples of Douglas fir and European Larch can be found here. The huge Douglas Fir (64.5 metres tall), by the old bridge was believed to be the tallest tree in the UK until recently when a review of the measurements pushed it back into second place, the tallest is now believed to be near Inverness. The larches found here are the offspring of the first larches introduced to Scotland, the last of which still survives behind the Cathedral in Dunkeld.
The woodlands were laid out by the Dukes of Atholl as a forest garden for their private enjoyment and contain a couple of notable follies. Constructed in the 18th Century Ossian's Hall has spectacular views over the falls and was built as a surprise for the Duke by his son in law, originally lined with mirrors and with shutters of coloured glass it must have been an astonishing sight. Next to this a stone bridge covered in ferns and mosses spans the gorge and further along the path the hermits cave hides in amongst the rocks adding mystery and interest into an already breathtaking place.
With the swirling waters of the Braan, the towering trees and squirrels and birds flitting from branch to branch it is a truly charming place.
What we do at the Hermitage:
- Enjoy a fantastic walks to the waterfalls
- Hear the History and legends
- Partake in a little Wildlife spotting
Tours that may visit the Hermitage:
If you like the Hermitage then you may also like:
- Killiecrankie
- Glen Affric
- Dunkeld
