An autumn spent in Scotland is reserved for those in search of true beauty. Rest and recharge from the busy summer days, bask in the opulent orange and reds of the deciduous trees and watch wildlife and nature exist in their purest form. Whether you’re up in the highlands or down in the borders, autumn in Scotland is unlike any other season, and regardless of region, your ideal autumn adventure can be crafted to your desires.
If in search of complete solitude from the outside world, an autumn in Scotland can be free from disruption and when out for a walk, you may discover the flora and fauna are the only living things you encounter. Whether it’s spotting a red squirrel in the garden or travelling to Glen Affric to feel the rush of Plodda Falls while being watched over by the kestrel and short-eared owl, the possibilities are endless.
Walk amongst Wildlife
Rest amongst the forest and rolling, heather-clad hills with a stay at The Mission Hall within the beautiful 12,000 acre Croick Estate. Rebuilt and renovated from an old church’s tin tabernacle, a stay in The Mission Hall is the perfect retreat for relaxation amongst nature and wildlife. The estate offers both the ancient history of over 5,000 years of human habitation, a working farm to visit and dozens more wildlife to observe and enjoy, for example, the potential to spot 4 different types of deer within the Glenn! When interviewed, the owner James Hall notes that red squirrels are a constant presence around The Mission Hall, but especially so in autumn.
Convenient for local day trips, it’s just over a 30-minute drive to the Glenmorangie Distillery, discover the nearby churches built by famous Scottish architect Thomas Telford, fish in the River Blackwater (a tributary of River Carron) which runs through the estate, or simply sit by the fire and observe the autumnal delights passing by.
Travel in Tranquillity
If you’re travelling with a furry friend, autumn is the perfect time for uninterrupted walks and adventures. Swap your sunflowers for a pumpkin patch at Balgone’s in North Berwick, take a romantic woodland walk and discover the hidden lake with your partner and dog. Then have a well-deserved rest at the Herd Café, with a sweet treat in hand, you can observe the beauty of North Berwick Law; the prominent hill which overlooks the town. Those in search of a further activity, can follow the path which connects to the John Muir way and continue with the adventure.
10 minutes away from the Baglone estate awaits your cottage, Stonelaw. If travelling with a few others or just wanting a peaceful stay on the coast, the place is ideal for your autumn escape. Just a short walk from two beaches the homely property offers both the invigorating sea breeze and a welcoming interior to rest and recharge with loved ones. The house possesses both open areas and communal spaces to socialise and entertain, but also peaceful sanctuaries, such as the cosy corner at the top of the stairs to look out across the enclosed garden and sea view behind it.
Take a trip to the Scottish Seabird Centre and spot eiders, cormorants, peregrines and many more birds. Autumn is the perfect time to spot a grey seal as their numbers begin to build on the Isle of May with the pups beginning to be born from Mid-October. Whatever you want your day to be when you wake from a restful night’s sleep, a break in Scotland can become anything you wish.
Settle into the Season by the Fire
After spending your day at Dewar’s distillery bring home a dram and cosy up by the fire at Laura’s House near Coupar Angus, Blairgowrie in Perthshire. This quaint new addition is situated on the Keithick estate and the ideal secluded space to settle into the new season. Discover the local history of the Coupar Angus, which dates to the Romans, for the perfect autumn adventure. If in search of more adventure, just an hour’s drive away is Aberfeldy where visitors can stroll through the Birks of Aberfeldy and hear the rush of Falls of Moness, made infamous by Robbie Burns’ poem. For thrill seekers, white water rafting on the River Tay, mountain climbing, paddle boarding and canyoning are all available to partake in. Nature and wildlife at Glen Lyon (approx. 51 miles away from the property) are at their most sublime during the autumn months and welcome any sort of adventure. From hiking around the array of mountains and lochs, driving along by the waterfalls or making a stop in the well-loved tearoom where you can savour the view of River Lyon with either a warm savoury delight or a slice of home baking.
Plan Your Autumn Break
However you choose to spend your time, recharge and restore in solitude, take the opportunity to slow down. Hike, cycle or saunter in sublimity, then your cosy cottage awaits you after a lively day outdoors. Curl up on the sofa with loved ones, brew a tea or savour the Scottish tablet you bought earlier in the day. Whatever you choose, embrace all Scotland has to offer this autumn.