Central Scotland is a playground for outdoor lovers – from peaceful paddling on lochs to rugged trails and wild swimming spots.
With its sweeping lochs, rugged hills, and enchanting forests, is an adventurer’s paradise. From calm waters perfect for paddleboarding to thrilling mountain bike trails and wild swimming spots, Perthshire and Stirlingshire offer experiences that reconnect you with nature and get your adrenaline flowing.
Recent visitor surveys highlight that 40% of overnight guests in Central Scotland choose activities like hiking, climbing, or exploring trails. Nature-based activities such as wild swimming, foraging, and wildlife watching are some of the fastest-growing outdoor trends.
In Perthshire and Stirlingshire, these activities are at your doorstep. From paddling into the morning mist on a still loch to the exhilaration of reaching a summit or the quiet of camping under the stars, this region offers endless opportunities to create lasting memories.
1. Paddleboarding, Kayaking & Canoeing
- The lochs of Perthshire and Stirlingshire are ideal for water adventures. Glide across tranquil waters at dawn, explore winding stretches of river, or gather the family for a gentle canoe journey. Paddleboarding has become especially popular in recent years, with many lochs offering sheltered conditions suitable for beginners, while experienced paddlers can challenge themselves on larger waters surrounded by dramatic mountain backdrops.
2. Iconic hiking routes and walking trails
- Central Scotland is crisscrossed with scenic trails for every level of walker:The Cateran Trail: A 103 km circular route through farmland, forests, and moorland, perfect for a multi-day trek.Clyde Walkway Extension: Linking Perthshire to Glasgow via green corridors and riverside paths, blending urban and rural landscapes.Forth & Clyde Canal Pathway: Walk or cycle a section of this historic canal that cuts across Scotland, passing aqueducts and iconic landmarks.The Campsie Fells: Just north of Glasgow and within easy reach of Stirlingshire, these hills offer short but rewarding climbs, with Earl’s Seat providing panoramic views.
3. Mountain Biking & Thrilling Trails
- Central Scotland’s forest parks and hills are a haven for mountain bikers. Whether you’re seeking gentle woodland loops for a family ride or challenging downhill runs, the region has terrain to suit every rider. Adrenaline-seekers will also find treetop adventures and zip lines adding an extra layer of excitement to the biking and hiking experience.
4. Wild Swimming and water-based activities
- Wild swimming is one of the fastest-growing outdoor activities in Scotland, and Perthshire and Stirlingshire boast countless beautiful spots to take the plunge. From sheltered hill lochans to larger stretches of water fringed by woodland, these wild swims offer a refreshing way to immerse yourself in nature. Alongside this, adventurous explorers can try activities such as coasteering-style challenges in rivers and rocky gorges – jumping, scrambling, and swimming in untamed natural landscapes.
Strathyre
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Warm drinks, pastries, gluten‑free/vegan options; pet‑friendly environment.
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St Fillans
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The Four Seasons Hotel
Overlooking Loch Earn, this hotel has a dog-friendly bar and outdoor terrace with beautiful views. Some of the rooms are also pet-friendly if you’re staying over. -
Achray House Hotel
Dogs are welcome in the bar area and on the outdoor terrace. It’s a great spot for lunch, dinner, or drinks by the water. -
St Fillans Golf Club
A relaxed, welcoming clubhouse offering light meals and refreshments — and dogs are welcome, especially if you’re just coming for food or a drink on the terrace.
Kenmore
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The Courtyard Brasserie & Bar
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Dog‑friendly dining by Loch Tay
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