Discover Heart 200: a new 200 mile route around the Heart of Scotland
Heart 200 is a new touring route of approximately 200 miles around Perth, Stirling, The Trossachs and Highland Perthshire – the very heart of Scotland. Discover the beauty and mystery of this stunning route, which promises a holiday that will leave you with memories to treasure forever, whether you are looking for a fast-paced weekend itinerary or a slower more relaxing tour.
The Heart 200 route starts in Stirling. There is lots to see and do in this area. You can visit Stirling Castle and climb the 246 steps to The Wallace Monument. Both attractions have fascinating exhibitions and offer spectacular views. There is also great hiking and cycling in this area, with many trails or country roads with little traffic. You can walk or cycle to Sherriffmuir, culmination of the Jacobite rebellion of 1715, or climb Dumyat, with its views over to Clackmannanshire.
Stay at Cromlix, the beautiful five-star former manse, owned by Sir Andy Murray. A 15 bedroom estate with a one-bedroom Gate Lodge, Cromlix is set in 34 acres of secluded grounds. Opened in 2014, it was redesigned to showcase much of the house’s original heritage and furnished with specially-sourced Scottish antique furniture. A standout feature of Cromlix is the award-winning Chez Roux restaurant. Cromlix is a 5 minute drive from Dunblane and 15 minutes from Stirling. Dunblane has a beautiful Romanesque cathedral dating back to circa 1150.
Cromlix House
After leaving Cromlix, enjoy the beautiful drive up to Crieff and Comrie. You can visit the stunning formal 17th century terraced gardens at Drummond Castle just outside Muthill, which doubled as the gardens of Versailles in the 2nd series of Outlander.
The drive past Glendevon towards Kinross is also spectacular. When you reach Perth, Scone Palace, the world famous crowning place of the King of Scots is a must see attraction, with its colourful history as one of Scotland’s most important stately homes.
From Perth, drive up to Pitlochry and visit the wonderful Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa.
Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa
In the heart of the Highlands is Fonab Castle Hotel & Spa, the only 5 star hotel in Pitlochry, on the scenic Tummel Valley, overlooking Loch Faskally. The 42 bedrooms have been individually designed to create a blend of modern elegance and traditional character. You can choose to dine in either the informal Brasserie or the 3 AA Rosette awarded Sandeman’s Restaurant, or in one of their luxury pods, located in the hotel gardens, overlooking the loch, which could make for a unique and memorable anniversary dinner. The Spa has a 15m swimming pool, Jacuzzi, sauna and four treatment rooms. The walking and cycling opportunities are excellent in this area and you are perfectly situated to visit Blair Castle, The House of Bruar, Pitlochry Festival Theatre and a number of different whisky distilleries, such as Blair Atholl.
House of Bruar
We hope this piece has given you a taste of what is on offer in the beautiful heart of Scotland and has left you feeling inspired to explore the new Heart 200 route. If you would like to find out more about the Luxury Scotland properties situated along the route, please get in touch today.
First published 25 August 2020. Information correct at time of going to press.
First published 26 August 2020. Information correct at time of going to press.
