Welcome the changing of the season among the vivid autumn colours of beautiful Scottish landscapes. Book a cosy home of your choosing and reset after the busy summer, surrounded by tranquil scenery it’s the perfect time of year to visit. Head to the local distillery, try delicious whisky and sample tasty Scottish snacks in cosy cafes while you watch red squirrels wander the leafy grounds. Rise on crisp mornings to discover hidden gems and local history, all through a stay at your very own unique cottage.
Perthshire’s Vibrant Autumn Trails
Rest in your magnificent 20th-century home, Ardmoy. Built in the early 1900s, the house sleeps 10 guests and retains the charm of the original building, rich with period artefacts, yet remains modern with its contemporary additions and warm open fire to nestle by.
Just a couple of miles down the road, Kinnoull Hill Woodland Park is a magnificent spot for a leisurely stroll through gorgeous, colourful terrain. Views over the River Tay and Coronation Road link the forest to Scone and may have been used by ancient kings on their journey to be crowned.
A little further out from Ardmoy lies The Hermitage (17 miles), a National Trust for Scotland site, an unmissable location not just in Perthshire but the whole of Scotland. The Hermitage is renowned for its beauty in the autumn months. Discover Ossian’s Hall, a quaint Georgian folly found through towering Douglas firs and past Black Linn Falls; the walk is excellent in autumn for spotting salmon jumping as they travel upstream. You’ll also be accompanied by many red squirrels on your journey. While in Dunkeld, this attractive tourist town is a must-see location for its shops and eateries, in particular Aran Bakery for a sweet treat and a hot drink to warm you up after exploring the countryside.
Just over 30 miles away in Pitlochry, the Pass of Killiecrankie and Faskally Forest circular route takes you through a stunning display of colours. Walk along the River Garry to Soldier’s Leap, named after the Jacobite and Redcoat soldiers who travelled through the Pass of Killiecrankie over 300 years ago. Stop in for lunch at Hettie’s Tea Room. Wherever you venture, Armoy awaits your return, where you can cosy up in your comfortable cottage ready for the next day’s autumn adventure.
Autumn Strolls in the Beautiful Borders
Autumn in the Scottish Borders is peaceful and quiet yet still benefits from some spectacular sunny days; it’s truly a hidden gem of a season, especially among the vibrant colours and landscapes of the rural Borders.
The Old Mill, sleeping 4/8, is a comfortable home away from home with a central woodburning stove, open plan space which connects the communal areas to views of the magnificent countryside. The lovely wooden veranda is perfect for enjoying the distant Hownam Law and the surrounding Borders countryside. A games room in a separate building is ideal for evenings in. Venture outdoors and find the breath-taking changing colours at Bowmont Forest, a landscape which truly encapsulates the beauty of the season; this 6.3 km walk is perfect for an afternoon stroll among the falling leaves.
The Cheviot Hills are nearby for a more challenging hike and highlight the colourful countryside; the circular walk takes you through breathtaking scenery, along part of the Pennine Way, past old Roman forts, and what was once a Roman road.
Located near Kelso, there’s plenty to explore during your time at The Old Mill, including Floors Castle, with a walled garden to marvel at and a café to reset in. Travel the Borders by bike, cycling enthusiasts will have plenty of land to explore.
Saunter the Sandy Shores of Sutherland
Escape to Sutherland and wander along the shores of Loch Brora adjacent to your cosy cottage or scale the neighbouring Ben Horn. Factor’s House is a warm haven for 6/10, is off the beaten track and well-equipped for adventures on the north coast. The coastal village of Brora is just 6 miles away; wander along the quiet shores of Brora Beach and discover history at Dunrobin Castle or carry on up to Golspie Beach, the coast is sure to be miles quieter at this time of the year, so you can fully appreciate the stunning scenery.
Watch waterfowl and waders come and go on the Loch Fleet Nature Reserve and spot the hundreds of winter wildfowl such as greylag geese and wigeons, and waders such as dunlin and bar-tailed godwit who flock to the area in autumn.
Follow the Brora Heritage Trail to discover the village’s industrial history. Highland Wildcats Trails are great for wonderful cycling trails under the vibrant deciduous trees. Scale Ben Bhraggie and soon be towered over by the colossal Duke of Sutherland monument. Get a taste of local distilleries at Brora, Clynelish and Glenmorangie. Or take a step back and simply sit by the fire observing the arrival of the new season; Factor’s House is the ideal home.
