other highlights

Highland Perthshire, located at the very heart of Scotland, has an unrivalled range of habitats and species. Straddling the Highland Boundary Fault, the area offers the best of both worlds.

We can arrange for guided photo safaris and superb wildlife and bird watching holidays set in the stunning countryside of Highland Perthshire.

Opportunities abound to view the native flora and fauna of Perthshire in comfort being chauffeured in off road vehicles by experienced guides. They will, weather permitting, be able to locate many interesting animals and birds resident in the area.

The safaris can even stop at some very scenic locations for refreshments high on the hills.

And Perthshire is " Big Tree Country" Visit some of the most remarkable trees and woodlands anywhere in Europe. Travel along our leafy country roads and:

• explore remnants of Scotland 's ancient wildwood
• discover where modern forestry began in this country
• wander through the homeland of globetrotting plant hunters
• marvel at the stunning specimens they introduced from around the world
• delight in fanciful follies and grottoes
• perhaps have a close encounter with some of our woodland wildlife

Forests, woods and country gardens offer an unrivalled assortment of glorious greenery, colours changing dramatically with the seasons. A short trip from each hotel takes you to Europe's oldest tree, the world's highest hedge, Britain's tallest tree, the sole survivor from Shakespeare's 'Birnam Wood', Europe's oldest living thing (the Fortingall Yew est. 3000 - 5000 years old)...the list goes on.

Fully escorted coach excursions from Pitlochry during the season, with fares inclusive of admission fees to all attractions visited. Ask your hotel for full details. Some easy walking is included in all tours, so bring outdoor footwear and (perhaps!) waterproofs. Remember that camera!.

You'll find some of Britain 's most colourful gardens here - from small, privately-owned and lovingly-tended gardens full of specialist plants and flowers, to sumptuous, formal gardens in the grounds of stately homes.

Perthshire has a magnificent variety of gardens to visit; there is Drummond Castle with the formal Italian garden; the natural heather collection at Bells Cherrybank in Perth; the woodland and Himalayan delights at Cluny, Branklyn Garden, described as the finest two acres of private garden in the country, the wonderful gardens at Blair Castle and Scone Palace, or the formal gardens in the grounds of the stately home at Kinross.

Take a walk in the woodland gardens at the Hermitage near Dunkeld and visit the cathedral or the Beatrix Potter Centre on the same tour.