Scotland’s autumn colours will delight leaf-peepers

Leaf-peepers across Scotland have welcomed the autumnal months with open arms and walking boots on as they prepare to savour the crisp crunch of autumn leaves under foot. September, October and November is prime leaf-peeping season and Scotland’s lush forests offer plenty of opportunity to get out and about.

Many people may have been leaf-peeping without even knowing it – it refers to visiting beauty spots to admire the rich autumnal colours and vibrant shades of Scotland’s magnificent trees and foliage as they change colour.

National and local parks, gardens, castle grounds, lochs and hills make great spots for seeing the season’s best autumnal displays and there are lots of events taking place across Scotland to celebrate leaf-peeping, including guided walks, nature festivals and celebrations of all things autumn.

Here are some of the best places for leaf-peeping in Scotland…

Perthshire – Big Tree Country

Perthshire, known as Big Tree Country, more than lives up to its reputation in autumn by providing beautiful seasonal vistas. The golden tree-lined avenue of Lady Mary’s Walk near Crieff is perfect for an afternoon stroll and at the historic Soldiers Leap Bridge at the Pass of Killiekrankie, visitors are rewarded with dramatic views over the wooded gorge.  Perthshire is also home to some world class trees and hedges including the tallest hedge in the world – The Meikleour Beech Hedge, near Blairgowrie; the oldest living thing in Europe – Fortingall Yew, thought to be over 3,000 years old, near Aberfeldy; an ancient oak at Birnam, thought to be the last survivor of the wood made famous in Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’ and one of the tallest trees in Britain – a stately Douglas Fir at the Hermitage, near Dunkeld.

Avich Falls, Davalich Forest, Argyll & Bute

This dainty pocket of waterfalls in woodland by Loch Avich is well worth a visit especially when the leaves start to turn a vivid gold and the scene takes on a magical quality. The circular walk to see them is worth the effort, especially following rainfall when the water becomes a powerful torrent.

Loch Lubhair, Loch Lomond & The Trossachs

Just north of Crianlarich on the A85, the calm waters of Loch Lubhair on the River Dochart reflect the yellows and orange of the turning trees. Visit at sunset on a clear day to see the hues intensify and the water reflect the dramatic surrounding scenery.

Rocks of Solitude, Angus

For a walk in the crisp autumn air, head for the Victorian village of Edzell in Angus. Follow the circular woodland walk along the River North Esk to the grand Gannochy Bridge and through the surrounding countryside to see the vibrant red and gold foliage that flanks the riverside pathways.

Glen Affric, The Highlands

15 miles from Loch Ness, Glen Affric is home to the largest pocket of ancient Caledonian pinewood forest in Scotland. The glen displays rich shades in autumn thanks to the yellows and reds of the striking Silver Birch, the soft round leaves of the Alder, and the red leaves and berries of the Rowan. Whether climbing one of the Munros or strolling by Loch Beinn A’ Mheadhain, visitors should also keep an eye out for local wildlife including red squirrels and roe deer.

There are also many fantastic events celebrating autumn and leaf-peeping…

The Enchanted Forest                                                                                                                    

Fascally Woods, Perthshire - Every night from 3 – 26 October

Lighting up Fascally Woods in Pitlochry each night, The Enchanted Forest is a firm favourite in Scotland’s events calendar and showcases autumnal trees during a spectacular light and sound show. This year, as part of Homecoming Scotland, the event will feature aerial performers for the first time. Themed around the show’s title of ‘Elemental’ it promises to put nature, and Scotland’s famously changeable weather elements, centre stage. 

Dumfries & Galloway Wild Autumn Festival
Throughout Dumfries & Galloway - 11 October – 2 November

Autumn is an action-packed time for nature in Dumfries & Galloway with the arrival of up to 25,000 barnacle geese on the Solway Coast. The festival features a host of great outdoor events across the region which offer great opportunities to admire the area’s autumnal beauty. Join a guided tour of the seasonal colours at Logan Botanic Garden and admire some of the prettiest flowering bulbs. Visitors can also learn how to get the best out of a digital SLR camera in autumn light on a dedicated walk through the Eskrigg Reserve.

Perthshire Amber - The Dougie MacLean Festival                                                               

Dunkeld, Perthshire - 24 October – 2 November

This popular annual festival celebrates Scottish and international music against the stunning backdrop of Perthshire. Dougie Maclean will perform throughout the festival, which also features concerts by The Royal Scottish National Orchestra, American-roots musician Eliza Lynn, and seven-piece band The Old School Dance band from Birmingham. Perthshire Amber’s 10th year sees concerts in 25 venues, including community halls, atmospheric castles and the magnificent Dunkeld Cathedral. Throughout the festival visitors will be able to make ‘Amber Discoveries’ and experience what the area has to offer with walks, talks and workshops.

For more information on leaf-peeping and holidays in Scotland go to www.visitscotland.com

ENDS

For more information please contact:

Frances Allan, PR Executive – UK & Ireland

0131 472 2370 | Frances.allan@visitscotland.com