Visiting The Hermitage in Scotland during the autumn period is a magical experience. It blends beautiful landscapes with a deep sense of history.
The Hermitage is a picturesque woodland located near Dunkeld, Perthshire, in central Scotland. It is known for its beautiful forests, dramatic waterfalls, and historical follies. This makes it an excellent spot for nature lovers and anyone seeking tranquility.
Why Visit The Hermitage in Autumn:
Autumn is one of the best times to visit The Hermitage. The woodlands become a vibrant tapestry of colours—golden yellows, rich oranges, and deep reds. The contrast of these autumnal hues against the rushing waterfalls and serene River Braan creates a stunning spectacle. As a photographer, I was in complete awe.
Key Highlights:
Ossian’s Hall and Ossian’s Cave
The Hermitage is home to Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors, an 18th-century folly that overlooks the dramatic Black Linn Falls. This is a great viewpoint to take in the mesmerizing falls below. Nearby, Ossian’s Cave adds a mythical touch to the landscape, named after the legendary Gaelic poet Ossian.
Black Linn Falls
The waterfall is one of the central features of The Hermitage. In autumn, with increased rainfall, the falls become even more powerful, making it a breathtaking sight. The rich colors of the season add to the ambiance of this natural wonder.
Woodland Walks
The Hermitage offers several walking trails that are perfect for autumn strolls. You’ll walk among towering Douglas firs (some of the tallest trees in the UK) and across rustic bridges, taking in the autumnal colors and the sound of rushing water.
Wildlife
Autumn brings opportunities to spot Scottish wildlife. You might catch glimpses of red squirrels, deer, and a variety of birds. The peace and quiet of the season make it a great time to observe nature.
Photography
The autumn light and vibrant foliage make The Hermitage a paradise for photographers. Whether you’re capturing landscapes, waterfalls, or wildlife, the scenery is breathtaking.
Practical Information for visiting the Hermitage in Scotland:
- Location: The Hermitage is situated about 2 miles west of Dunkeld. It’s easily accessible by car or public transport from cities like Edinburgh or Glasgow.
- Entry: The Hermitage is managed by the National Trust for Scotland, and entry is typically free, though parking has a small charge.
- Best Time to Visit: Late September to November is ideal for autumn colors. Early morning or late afternoon provides the best lighting for photos.
- Facilities: There are no cafes or shops within The Hermitage itself, so bring a packed lunch or snacks with you. Dunkeld, the nearby town, has several charming cafes and restaurants.
- Weather: Scottish autumns can be unpredictable, so bring layers and waterproofs. It’s often cool but can be quite wet, especially in the woodlands.
Tips:
- Wear sturdy walking shoes, as the paths can become slippery with autumn rain.
- Early autumn tends to be quieter, while late autumn brings more vibrant colors.
Visiting The Hermitage in autumn offers a peaceful retreat into nature with rich history and stunning scenery.
Places to Stay Near the Hermitage
The area around Dunkeld and Perthshire offers a range of accommodation options, from cozy B&Bs and traditional hotels to luxury lodges and self-catering cottages.
I personally stayed here and could not recommend it ENOUGH! The entire property is absolutely breathtaking. As you drive through the majestic brick gates, you’ll pass countrysides filled with roaming deer, adjacent to a fast-flowing river Tay. The hotel is an old manor house, converted into a luxury 4-star hotel. It has an incredible charm. The dinning options are delicious, I ate there every night! There is also a spa and massage treatments available – which I also took advantage of! Everything was incredible and I would go back in a heartbeat.
The location is perfect, only a few minutes drive from the Hermitage. There is free parking onsite too.
Other places to stay when visiting the Hermitage in Scotland include:
This historic hotel is situated right by the Dunkeld Bridge and the River Tay. It offers traditional Scottish hospitality, with cozy rooms and a welcoming atmosphere. Its central location makes it easy to explore Dunkeld village and access The Hermitage. Ideal for travelers looking for a traditional, charming hotel with a lot of history and a convenient location. They also have an on-site restaurant and pet friendly rooms.
The Pitlochry Hydro Hotel is a charming, traditional Scottish hotel located in the scenic town of Pitlochry. It is surrounded by the breathtaking Perthshire Highlands. It’s set upon a hilltop, meaning you have panoramic views of the countryside. There is an on-site restaurant, an indoor heated pool, sauna, and fitness facilitie. It’s approximately a 25 minute drive south to the Hermitage.
The Best Ways to Get to The Hermitage
By Car
Driving is the easiest and most flexible way to reach The Hermitage, especially if you plan to explore the surrounding areas. I highly recommend hiring a car from Edinburgh or Glasgow, and driving up.
- From Edinburgh: The drive takes around 1.5 hours via the M90 and A9 roads.
- From Glasgow: It takes approximately 1.5 hours via the M80 and A9 roads.
- From Perth: A short 20-30 minute drive via the A9.
Once you reach Dunkeld, there’s a designated car park at The Hermitage, from which you can walk straight into the woodland area.
By Train
You can also reach The Hermitage by train, though this requires some walking or a short taxi ride.
- Nearest Train Station: Dunkeld & Birnam Station.
- Trains from Edinburgh and Glasgow typically connect via Perth, and the journey takes around 1.5 to 2 hours.
- From Dunkeld & Birnam station, The Hermitage is about 1.5 miles away, so you can either take a taxi (around 5 minutes) or enjoy a leisurely walk.
By Bus
There are bus services from Perth to Dunkeld. The journey takes about 30-40 minutes, and from Dunkeld, you can either walk or take a taxi to The Hermitage.
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