The twin villages of Dunkeld and Birnam are rapidly becoming one of the country's adventure sports capitals. Split in two by the River Tay, watersports, climbing and biking can all be accessed easily and offer challenges for all levels. With plenty of pubs, shops and eateries, plus a large array of events at the Birnam Arts Centre, it's a buzzing place to relax after your playtime outdoors.
EXPLORE
Go Mountain Biking
Dunkeld has a well-established biking community and industry, attracting bikers from across the world. From the country's toughest downhill race track to gentle forest paths, you will find it all here. With an uplift service and guided rides readily available, there is something for everyone.
Whitewater Kayak on the River Braan
The River Braan offers some of Scotland's best Grade 4 and 5 paddling on its 'Mad Mile' section. If rapids with names like 'Splitter' are not your bag, the river has other Grade 2 and 3 sections.
For canoeing and kayaking:
Outdoor Explore | Beyond Adventure
Go Climbing
With several crags in and around Dunkeld, it's a very popular destination. From multi-pitch routes to sport climbing to bouldering, the area has it all. Highlights include Polney Crag, Craig Y Barns and Craig Na'Eighe.
Paddle Touring on the River Tay
The River Tay is a classic river touring destination, the Dunkeld section in particular. From sweeping countryside to the gorge-like feeling as the river enters Dunkeld, the scenery is spectacular.
For canoeing and kayaking:
Outdoor Explore | Beyond Adventure
For Stand Up Paddleboarding:
Paddlesurf Scotland | Beyond Adventure
Paddle to a Ruined Castle
A series of beautiful Lochs string out along the road from Dunkeld to Blairgowrie, the highlight of which is Clunie Loch. With a ruined castle on a small island, and its calm waters, it's a great place to learn and explore.
For Canoeing and Kayaking:
For Stand Up Paddleboarding:
Event: Dunkeld Enduro
With 5 stages of excellent Biking in stunning scenery, this Enduro race is a rapidly growing event.
Event: Dunkeld Downhill Mountain Bike Race
Part of the Scottish Downhill Association's National Series, this is known as the country's hardest downhill. This makes it not only a great event to compete in, but also one to watch.
Event: Birnam Hill Race
A fixture on the Hill Race scene for many years , plenty of runners come to compete in this gruelling but rewarding event.
EAT, DRINK & SHOP
Indulge in a cake while perusing the fine array of second hand books at The Birnam Reader.
Check out the fine cheeses and speciality sandwiches at The Scottish Deli or enjoy a slice of something savoury from The Aran Bakery, run by acclaimed cookery book author and Great British Bake Off star, Flora Snedden.
Food with a view on the Riverside at the Atholl Arms, their vegan and vegetarian menu is particularly impressive. Enjoy some unique takes on Scottish classics in The Taybank, if you are lucky listening to some live music.
STAY
Family friendly and with plenty of animals to pet, Aikenhead House is just near to the water's of Clunie Loch.
Luxury hostelling is a thing, and at Jessie Mac's, one of the warmest welcomes in town will greet you.
An incredible riverside location and quality group/family accommodation is on offer at The Tay Bunkhouse in Logierait.
Right in the heart of the town, The Royal offers plenty of smiles, hearty food and live music in one of Dunkeld's most popular pubs.
