The pretty Perthshire town of Pitlochry is just a 45-minute drive from my home. It’s the ideal place to go for a short break, and my favourite time of year to visit is winter. On a cold, crisp day, the views are breathtaking.
I headed north last week for a few days to recharge my batteries before the hectic Christmas period. The weather was gorgeous for December – clear blue skies and frost on the ground. Red squirrels scampered about gathering food as I parked the car. Bliss!
My hotel was by the shore of Loch Faskally, and an easy 15-minute walk into the town centre took me across the famous Pitlochry Dam with its salmon ladder.
Pitlochry town centre is host to a lovely array of interesting independent shops and cafes. It’s the perfect place to do your Christmas shopping away from the hustle and bustle of city-centre streets. I stopped in at the Highland Soap Company to buy candles and hand cream, and then browsed the two specialist whisky shops for the ideal gift for a malt whisky loving friend.
Pitlochry has a lovely little theatre. This year, they’re performing “The Wizard Of Oz“, which has been so popular that I failed to get tickets! Close by is Edradour Distillery, one of the prettiest in Scotland, which makes a fascinating day out.
I returned home from my break feeling rested and refreshed – and ready to face the festive mayhem!
Fancy a short break of your own? You’ll find inspiration and great offers here.
Angela Gilchrist I am the former Editor-in-Chief of “The People’s Friend” magazine. My passions include cats, Highland ponies, good books, vegetarian food and long walks in the Scottish countryside. My favourite place to get away from it all is the magical Isle of Skye.
