The Cateran Trail, a five night serviced walk around Alyth, Blairgowrie,
Bridge of Cally, Glenshee, Kirkmichael, Glenisla

The Cateran Trail - a fully waymarked circular route.
Signposts, stiles and bridges marked with cateran trail logo and direction arrows allow for easy route identification. The Cateran Trail can be walked in 4 or 5 days - or in stages.
It follows old drove roads, ancient tracks, minor roads and passes through farmland and forests.
Starting at any point.
Walk the Heart of Scotland

Alyth to Bridge of Cally - 9 miles/15km
Heading north - west out of Alyth the Cateran Trail uses moorland and estate roads.
Walkers are rewarded with extensive views since the they twice climbs to over 950ft above sea level.
The descent into Bridge of Cally is mainly on tarmac, using quiet minor roads.
Bridge of Cally Hotel is located close to the old bridge above the River Ericht.

Bridge of Cally to Kirkmichael - 8 miles/13½km
For the next 8 miles the Cateran Trail winds its way through soft green contours of Strathardle glen.
In past times this glen was a lucrative plundering ground for the Caterans, who seized cattle grazing in pastures. Near Bridge of Cally the Trail passes through Blackcraig Forest where roe deer and red squirrels
may be spotted. Woodland, moorland and farmland are all features of this section before the descent into Kirkmichael village with a range of eating places, bed breakfasts and hotels.

Kirkmichael via Enochdhu to Spittal of Glenshee
- 8 miles/13km
This part of the trail follows a hill pass from Enochdhu to Spittal of Glenshee. Enochdhu means `black meadow` or `moor.` This settlement was once a gathering point for Caterans following a raid. Since the cateran trail rises to over 700 metres above sea level spectacular views are guaranteed.
It’s possible to glimpse red deer and eagle. A timber hut, by the side of the path, has been provided by the estate, an an ideal resting place. The descent to Spittal of Glenshee is dramatic.
Accommodation is available at  Glenkilrie, Inveredrie, the hotel and Gulabin.

Spittal of Glenshee via Blacklunans to Kirkton of Glenisla - 14 miles/22½km
Departing Spittal of Glenshee the cateran trail heads southwards across the hillside and follows the Shee Water past Dalnaglar Castle into the fertile farmlands of Glenisla. The first 5 miles of this stretch are on rough moorland path, then via quiet minor roads past the stunning setting of Forter Castle. Energetic walkers may wish to take the alternative route into Glenisla by crossing Mount Blair. The terrain is largely heathery and the summit
offers a panoramic views of surrounding countryside.
Staying on the Trail the route passes Auchintaple Loch and Loch Shandra. The village of Kirkton of Glenisla
with a hotel and b&b at Glenmarkie, West Freuchies and nearby Purgavie farmhouse sits on the banks of the River Isla, an ideal location for refreshments, a hearty dinner and good nights sleep.

Kirkton of Glenisla to Alyth - 11 miles/17½km
Take the Trail  through forest and farmland to the historic and picturesque burgh town of Alyth. The area around Alyth has strong links to Arthurian legends and it is believed that Queen Guinevere was held captive by King Mordred at his Fort on nearby Barry Hill. The route crosses Alyth Hill, rising steeply on the edge of the town, before meandering down Toutie Street into the centre. Cattle were driven up Toutie Street to grazing pastures on Alyth hill. The street is evocatively named after the noise from the herd-boy's horn. The River Queich or Alyth Burn as it is locally know, runs through the centre of the town. It rises in what was the Forest of Alyth where in 1326, King Robert the Bruce, reputedly hunted stag prior to the signing of charters relating to the Abbeys of Arbroath and Scone. The Alyth Den a S.S.S.I. meets up with the cateran trail on the way to Bridge of Cally. Alyth is a traditional farming town with a local Alyth hotel, Scottish Mansion House - Lands of Loyal and established bed & breakfast
Old Stables where you may leave your car by arrangement.
Good restaurants, shops, cafes, Indian restaurant.

Alyth bed and breakfast | Self Catering | Tariff | Activities | About Alyth | Gallery ¦ Links ¦ Golf ¦ Walk Auld Alyth ¦ Haggis ¦ Contact
BACK