Cateran Trail

Arrive in Blairgowrie, on the banks of the River Ericht, and spend the evening at your first night’s accommodation. Blairgowrie is now the focus of the Perthshire soft fruit growing industry (especially raspberries) and is popular with golfers and anglers.

The Cateran Trail begins on the north side of the centre of Blairgowrie and follows a path upstream beside the Ericht. As you walk you’ll pass by a number of old mills, lades and weirs, from Blairgowrie’s past growing flax and processing jute industry. After a gentle stroll along the river, the path climbs over Cochrage Muir before descending to the hamlet of Bridge of Cally.

From Bridge of Cally, the Cateran Trail passes through Blackcraig Forest and into the peaceful glen known as Strathardle. In the past, this glen was a lucrative plundering ground for the Caterans, who seized on the cattle grazing the rich pastures.

Leaving Kirkmichael, the route is predominantly upland, following a wonderful moorland route and hill pass from Enochdhu through to Spittal of Glenshee.

The wild mountainous country on the walk from the Lairig Gate down into the Spittal of Glenshee is spectacular. The Spittal takes its name from the old Scots word meaning ‘a refuge on a remote hill pass’ – from a time when wolves roamed wild in Scotland.

From Glenshee, the trail heads south, following the Shee Water past Dalnaglar Castle into the fertile farmlands of Glen Isla.

For those more energetic walkers, you may wish to take the alternative route into Glenisla by crossing Mount Blair. The summit offers panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and on a clear day, you may even spot iconic Ben Nevis in the distance. Your final destination in this stage is the village of Kirkton of Glenisla where you can relax with a drink and a hearty meal at the cosy Glenisla Hotel.

The tranquillity of Glen Isla is a real treat in the early morning, and as the Trail rises high above the river and fields it gives way to fantastic open views over an idyllic pastoral scene.

Crossing Alyth Hill, the route rises steeply, skimming the edge of the town, before making its way down Toutie Street – down which cattle were driven in centuries past – to the centre of town. The street takes its name from the noise of the herd-boy’s horn as he drove the cattle to pasture.

Leaving Alyth, the trail again passes over Alyth Hill and follows moorland and pleasant estate roads, close to the massive standing stones of Heatheryhaugh.

The last part of the Trail back to Blairgowrie is the reversal of the first part of stage one. A diversion through the picturesque Den of Alyth and Drimmie Woods allows you to vary your return route.

When you arrive back in Blairgowrie, reflect on the journey you have taken in the footsteps of the Caterans.

After breakfast you will start your journey home after a wonderful walking holiday on the Cateran Trail.