National Landscapes in Perth and Kinross

National Landscapes in Perth and Kinross are areas designated as National Scenic Areas (NSAs) for their exceptional scenery. This page covers four such areas: Loch Rannoch And Glen Lyon, Loch Tummel, River Tay, and River Earn. These NSAs protect landscapes ranging from Highland mountains and lochs to picturesque river valleys.

Perth and Kinross is home to five of Scotland's 40 National Scenic Areas (NSAs). This page aggregates routes and information for four of them, which are predominantly located within the region's boundaries. These areas offer a combined total of more than 500 routes for various outdoor activities.

The primary activities are hiking, cycling, and mountain biking, with over 500 routes available across the four main National Scenic Areas. Specific collections of routes are available for MTB Trails in Perth and Kinross and Road Cycling Routes in Perth and Kinross. The varied terrain also supports trail running and mountaineering.

The Loch Rannoch And Glen Lyon NSA features a grand Highland landscape with mountains like Schiehallion and the Ben Lawers massif. It offers more than 130 routes, including over 50 hiking trails and nearly 20 mountain bike trails. The area is suitable for hillwalking, mountaineering, and cycling.

The Loch Tummel NSA is a wooded landscape centered on the long, narrow Loch Tummel. It is known for the 'Queen's View' vantage point and the wooded gorge of the Pass of Killiecrankie. The area provides over 140 routes, with a large number of road cycling and hiking options through its mixed woodlands.

The River Tay NSA is known as the 'Gateway to the Highlands' and centers on the historic town of Dunkeld. Its landscape includes the wide River Tay, diverse woodlands, and The Hermitage, a forested gorge with some of Britain's tallest trees. The area has over 120 routes for hiking, cycling, and mountain biking.

The River Earn NSA showcases the landscape where the Highlands meet the Lowlands. It offers over 100 routes for activities like hiking and cycling. A popular route follows the path of a former railway line between St Fillans and Comrie, providing a scenic option for walkers and cyclists.

Yes, there are routes suitable for a range of abilities. The varied landscapes of the NSAs include gentle riverside paths and woodland trails appropriate for families and beginners. For specific suggestions, there is a dedicated collection of Family-friendly hikes in Perth and Kinross.

Many trails within the National Scenic Areas are suitable for walking with dogs, provided they are kept under control, especially near livestock. Following the Scottish Outdoor Access Code is essential. A curated list of routes can be found in the Dog-friendly hikes in Perth and Kinross guide.

The National Landscapes can be visited year-round, with each season offering a different experience. Spring brings flowering flora, while summer provides long daylight hours for extended hikes. Autumn is known for its vibrant foliage, particularly in the wooded areas like The Hermitage and around Loch Tummel. Winter can bring snow to the higher peaks, requiring appropriate skills and equipment for hillwalking.

There are over 180 designated hiking trails across the four National Scenic Areas. These range from gentle riverside walks in the River Tay and River Earn NSAs to challenging mountain ascents in the Loch Rannoch and Glen Lyon NSA. The diverse terrain offers options for all levels of hiking experience.

Yes, the National Landscapes offer excellent cycling. The Loch Tummel NSA is particularly noted for its scenic road cycling routes around the loch. Across all four NSAs, there are more than 70 road cycling routes and over 60 touring cycling routes available, traversing varied landscapes from river valleys to Highland glens.