The Hermitage

The Hermitage is a National Trust park in Perth and Kinross with walking paths along the River Braan through a forest of Douglas firs toward Black Linn Falls. The route takes visitors through varied landscapes and alongside steep riverbanks with regular views of the water.

The 3rd Duke of Atholl established this place in the mid-18th century as a pleasure garden for the nearby Dunkeld House estate. The site later developed into a popular destination with new paths and structures built into the forest.

Ossian's Hall holds a full-size portrait of the poet and uses mirrors with architectural features to amplify the waterfall's sound. This clever design shows how the space was meant to blend art with natural surroundings.

The walk starts at Hermitage Car Park beside the A9 and offers different route options through varied terrain. Visitors should wear sturdy shoes and bring weatherproof clothing, as paths can become slippery after rain.

Douglas firs planted in the late 1700s grew to exceptional heights here, with one specimen reaching about 200 feet before falling in 2017. The fallen tree remains in the park as a reminder of nature's strength and the passage of time.