Signs of Spring!
The start of Spring! On a lovely sunny day we set off to do one of the walks we offer through Perthshire Treks on a set date. You start by catching a train to Blair Atholl and then heading up steeply on the south side of the valley along an old right of way to Glen Fincastle. The views open out as you climb, especially now before the birch trees are in full leaf. On the way we spot the occasional early wood anemone, these will be in their full glory in another few weeks.
The view northwards to Beinn a’Ghlo, Carn a’ Chlamain, Beinn Mheadhonach and Beinn a’ Chait are outstanding with snow still lying in sheltered corries and on the higher tops. To the southwest, you can see Schiehallion. A superb Scots Pine stands tall on the moor. Once on the top the views open up to the south down to Glen Fincastle and towards Farragon Hill.
The route stays high and views open out further to Ben Vrackie and Glen Girnaig. We hear and see skylarks starting to sing and soar and also the lonely calls of the curlew. After losing height towards an isolated farm, the path climbs steadily to reach a superb elevated viewpoint high above the Soldier’s Leap at Killiecrankie (an excellent lunch spot) before finally dropping down to the River Garry past Creag na h-Uamha or “crag of the cave” and the ruins of abandoned sheilings. On the way we see more signs of spring with flowers on the larch trees known as “larch roses”.
After passing Tenandry Kirk, you reach the river valley and the narrow gorge of the River Garry. It is then a nice relaxing walk along the banks of Loch Faskally before a welcome stop at the café and shop at the Pitlochry Dam Visitor Centre at the end of the walk.
This is a fantastic walk with great views and lots of interest. We’ll be offering this walk on a set date this summer so please keep checking our website and Facebook page for more details. Or get in touch with us to book it as a custom guided adventure!
