The best walks and hikes around Butterstone Loch

Yes, the area offers several gentle walks perfect for families. A great option is the The Birnam Oak – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld. It's a short, flat trail that follows the river and is suitable for all ages. Many of the 38 easy routes in the region are ideal for a relaxed day out.

The region is a haven for wildlife. The Scottish Wildlife Trust's Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre & Wildlife Reserve is a key location, famous for its nesting ospreys. Keep an eye out for red squirrels in the woodlands, and you might even spot roe deer or otters near the water's edge, especially during quieter times of the day.

Most trails around Butterstone Loch are dog-friendly, but it's important to be mindful of the local environment. The area is a Special Area of Conservation with ground-nesting birds and livestock. Always keep your dog under close control, and on a lead where signposted, particularly between April and July.

Circular walks are very common in this area, allowing you to enjoy a varied loop without retracing your steps. For a straightforward circular route, consider the Dunkeld Cathedral – Dunkeld Town Centre loop from Dunkeld, which combines riverside paths with historic town sights.

For a spectacular waterfall, head to The Hermitage, a highly-regarded section of forest managed by the National Trust for Scotland. The trails here lead to the impressive Black Linn Falls, which are particularly dramatic after rainfall. The surrounding woodland features some of Britain's tallest Douglas firs.

The terrain is quite varied. You'll find gentle, flat paths alongside the River Tay and around the lochs, perfect for easy strolls. Other trails venture into the rolling hills and through dense woodlands like Drumbuie Wood, involving more ascent and uneven ground. The paths are generally well-maintained.

Yes, there are several car parks serving the popular trailheads. You can find parking in Dunkeld and Birnam, which are starting points for many routes. Key attractions like The Hermitage and the Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre also have their own dedicated car parks. It's advisable to arrive early on weekends as they can fill up quickly.

The komoot community rates the hikes here very highly. Reviewers frequently praise the stunning scenery, which combines clear lochs, dense forests, and riverside paths. The excellent signposting on many trails and the abundance of wildlife, especially the birdlife at Loch of the Lowes, are also popular highlights.

The hike to Deuchary Hill is considered a rewarding challenge for those with a good level of fitness. It's one of the more difficult routes in the area, involving significant elevation gain. The summit is often exposed and can be windy, but it offers panoramic views over the surrounding lochs and landscape.

The area is very photogenic. Key spots include the view over the almost circular, clear waters of Butterstone Loch itself, the historic Dunkeld Cathedral by the river, and the dramatic Black Linn Falls at The Hermitage. For landscape shots, the viewpoints from the higher trails on Craig More or Deuchary Hill provide breathtaking perspectives of the valley.

Absolutely. The nearby towns of Dunkeld and Birnam have several traditional pubs and inns that are perfect for a post-hike meal or drink. Many walking routes either start, finish, or pass through these towns, making it easy to plan a stop. The Inchewan Path loop from Birnam is a great example of a trail that starts and ends in a village with plenty of refreshment options.