sblair72
November 28, 2024
Pitlochry is a beautiful place in the centre of wonderful Perthshire countryside which will appeal to anyone who wishes to walk, fish, play golf, visit historic sites such as the Pass of Killiecrankie or the Queen’s View, or just relax, somewhere to visit and spend a few refreshing days admiring everything the village, and its neighbourhood, has to offer. The town itself boasts a number of privately owned shops which offer good value for a variety of excellent items. The salmon Fish Ladder has an international reputation, as does the nearby Highland Chocolatier, one which the unique Heather Gems is fast developing with its very special range of unique, must buy jewellery. The welcoming Festival Theatre has an outstanding annual programme featuring many well-known, accomplished actors who highlight several superb productions throughout the year. A notable summer season includes at least five separate shows in the auditorium as well as several fringe shows. A visit lasting a few days in order to see some, perhaps all, of them is recommended. Aberfeldy and Kenmore are close by as is the House of Bruar, a large, hugely popular shop, which sells almost everything anyone might desire, perhaps even need. Before you reach Bruar you can stop for refreshment at the Watermill in Blair Atholl, a delightful working water mill dating back to 1590s where stoneground oatmeal and flours are milled and sold, and even spend an informative hour or two at nearby Blair Castle. Slightly further away is a dive into history at Newtonmore’s extensive Highland Folk Museum or hours spent with fabulous animals from all over the world, roaming the amazing Highland Wildlife Park near Kingussie, the home of Scotland’s own polar bears. It is important if the visit is to be as prefect as all this deserves that you are cossetted in splendid accommodation. I have enjoyed many holidays in Pitlochry in very good hotels but, thanks to advice from typically very friendly local citizens, I have discovered what must be as good a hotel as can be found anywhere, the family owned and run Knockendarroch Hotel. We have had three memorable stays there this year. Arranging them was simple and straightforward such is the efficiency of the staff. They are not only efficient they are also very friendly and welcoming. The rooms are tastefully furnished and very comfortable with superb views of the surrounding countryside; our bed room lacked nothing. The food is exceptional with a wide ranging, appetising menu both at breakfast and dinner. Dinner is made even more appealing by the service of canapes while you order your meal in a lounge made even more comforting in winter time by two roaring log fires. This ensures that everything served is freshly cooked exactly as you want. It can be no surprise that the Knockendarroch Hotel has been voted the Number 1 hotel in Pitlochry. We are, already, looking forward to more days and nights there in 2025. We might even enjoy the pleasure of yo