Craig Horne and his family enjoy a fabulous weekend break in Blair Atholl.
A herd of majestic stags ranging over heather-clad hills under a leaden sky. It is an archetypal Scottish image and one my family and I were blessed with during our stay at Blair Castle Caravan Park.
Perhaps no one knows Atholl Estates’ sprawling 145,000 acres quite like retired gamekeeper Sandy, our guide for the day. We had decided against the very early morning Land Rover Safari he runs in favour of a 10am pick-up.
As we passed the grounds where the renowned horse trials take place, Sandy gave us a rundown of the animals we’d likely see and pointed out the binoculars we were welcome to use. He told us of the beautiful Falls of Bruar and pointed out the House of Bruar to Susan, my partner. I swear I detected my wallet trembling. Then, it was up into the hills where his motor truly showed its mettle over the steep and rugged terrain.
Sandy told us the early risers are rewarded with the most wildlife but we still encountered innumerable roe deer, hares bounding from nook to cranny, black grouse, buzzards, lapwings, kestrels, wheatears and curlews. Here and there were also the crumbling ruins of former lodges and shooting butts, giving further atmosphere to the wind-swept moor.
After an enjoyable morning it was back to our luxury caravan, an impressively spacious affair boasting all mod cons, a main bedroom with ensuite, and outdoor decking set with table and chairs.
The award-winning site is well laid out with the caravans encircling an expansive grassy area dotted with play equipment. We found the place was popular with cyclists, and dog owners will be pleased to know there are a number of canine-friendly caravans. The site also boasts free wifi, Segways and runs tractor tours in summer.
Scandinavian-style woodland lodges are situated in a quieter area towards the back of the park and the family camping pods are a further attraction.
We had lunch in the wonderfully old-style bar within the Atholl Arms Hotel. Wood-panelled booths led off from a central area where a little fire burned. The menu boasted Highland fare with a modern twist such as the pheasant burger and wild game madras. It was all very reasonably priced.
Afterwards we walked up to Blair Castle Trekking Centre where my sons enjoyed a supervised Highland pony ride around the paddock. Further options the centre offers include a one-hour beginners trek and a two-hour experienced hack.
Blair Castle itself is stunning, from its hugely photogenic exterior to its sumptuous rooms. Visitors to the ancient seat of the Dukes and Earls of Atholl are taken through 700 years of Scottish history.
One of the highlights is the Picture Staircase – an example of the second duke’s remodelling of the castle from medieval fortress into lavish Georgian mansion.
Completed in 1756, it features exquisite plasterwork from the Edinburgh stuccoist Thomas Clayton and a series of grand portraits. Another highlight is the Baronial Entrance Hall which features a dizzying array of weapons including a shield from the Culloden battlefield.
The castle’s award-winning Tullibardine Restaurant now boasts a new look. For the third year running visitors arriving at the castle gates also have the option to pay an extra £15 for an annual pass. This covers the grounds as well, which are well worth including on any trip to the castle.
Hercules Garden is a serene, verdant retreat dotted with fruit trees and featuring a landscaped pond and sculpture trail. The ruins of St Bride’s Kirk, the final resting place of Bonnie Dundee, lie nearby, as do the Gothic arches of 18th Century folly, The Whim.
Younger visitors who have had to be on their best behaviour around the castle and gardens, meanwhile, can be boisterous once more at the red deer park and adventure playground.
Blair Castle Caravan Park offers a spacious, tranquil and comfortable base from which to explore one of the finest regions of Highland Perthshire.
Info
A short stay (Fri-Mon or Mon-Fri) in a two-bedroom caravan begins at £290.
Private Land Rover Safari: £200 for a half day or £340 for a full day.
Children’s pony ride: £5 per child.
Beginner trek: £30 per person.
Experienced hack: £45 per person.
