Heart 200: The Ultimate Scotland Road Trip Guide

The Heart 200 is a new Scotland touring route which is 200 miles long and showcases the best attractions in the Trossachs, Stirling, Perth and Kinross. The route covers the ‘heart’ of Scotland.

The Heart 200 is a lovely route for those who love to do road trips, have a camper van, motorhome or it is a great route to complete on a bike. There is mesmerising scenery and landscapes on this route.

Also, it is filled with history, nature, adrenaline rushes and rivers. Thus, the Heart 200 can be enjoyed by everyone.

Moreover, this is the only route which features both of Scotland’s National Parks – the Cairngorms and Loch Lomond and the Trossachs.

Also, two of Scotland’s best historical cities are covered on this route and you can experience at least 10 small villages including Doune, Callendar, Kenmore, Aberfeldy, Pitlochry, Blairgowrie, Kinross and Crieff. 

The route is split into six sections including the Wooded Western Edge, the Highland North, the Riverside East, Perth, the Historic South and Stirling.

This itinerary will list the best places to stop during the route. Also, suggestions for places to eat and places to stay are mentioned. 

Accommodation

Supplies

The Wooded Western Edge

The Wooden Western Edge part of the Heart 200 covers the southeast section of Loch Lomond. Also, the route runs from the historic city of Stirling to the small village northeast of Loch Lomond and the Trossachs, Killin. 

Popular stops along the way are Doune, Callander, Aberfoyle and Loch Katrine. From Aberfoyle, you visit the Three Lochs Drive, climb Ben A’an, and view the beautiful Loch Katrine, and Loch Lubhaig on the way to Killin. 

Doune Castle 

Back in the 14th century, the castle was built by Regent Albany. Doune Castle was a scene in Monty Python and the Holy Grail as part of the Castle Swamp.

More recently, it was used in a scene in popular TV shows, including Game of Thrones and Outlander. The site is currently managed by Historic Scotland.

Viewings of the castle are free from the outside, however, if wish to go inside the castle a tour will have to be arranged. Check the website for visiting times and ticket prices.

Bracklinn Falls

Just behind the magnificent town of Callender, you will find the magnificent Bracklinn Falls. The waterfall runs under an old wooden bridge and winds through massive boulders and rock formations.

There are many walking trails to follow through the forest at Callender Crags. This area was a favourite place for Queen Victoria and it is easy to see why. 

Falls of Dochart

The Falls of Dochart is a dominant feature of the small village called Killin. Also, the falls are extremely picturesque and are perfect to view during all seasons.

There is an old stone bridge which is a perfect place to watch the rapids of the river. Also, you can enjoy the falls from the Falls of Dochart pub. 

• For more information on this part of the Heart 200, please read Loch Lomond and the Trossachs Road Trip Itinerary. 

The Highland North

This part of the Heart 200 began at Killin and finished at Pitlochry. The route starts by driving along the scenic Loch Tay, to the west you will see the massive Lawers range.

At the east end of Loch Tay, you will come across the pretty historic village of Kenmore. The route continues to Aberfeldy, Dull, Tummel Bridge, Bruar, Blair Atholl, Killiecrankie and finishes in Pitlochry. 

Finlarig Castle 

This castle is located at the edge of Killin. Parking is available across from the cemetery. Built back in the 16th century on the banks of Loch Tay, it is now a crumbling structure with an eerie feel to it.

There is an old cellar, staircase and a beheading pit, it is a very eerie ruined castle. Also, information boards explain what happened here. 

Lawer Mountain Range

The tenth-highest Munro – Ben Lawers, is located in this mountain range. Ben Lawers is 1,214 metres high and is accompanied by another Munro, Beinn Ghlas.

On a clear day, you will get impressive views across the River Tay, and Kenmore and you can see out to the Munro peaks in the Trossachs region. 

This mountain range has many good walk and Munros for beginners.

Birks of Aberfeldy

Birks of Aberfeldy features a Robert Burns statue and cave dedicated to Robert Burns. The Falls of Moness is on this route, one of the loveliest waterfalls in Perthshire.

As stunning as it is, Robert Burns the famous poet chose to write a poem about the falls.

You can admire the 150-metre drop into the gorge below from a bridge. Overall, the 35 km loop takes two hours to complete. 

Splash White Water Rafting

Calling all adrenaline seekers, get involved in many excursions that are based on the River Tay. Activities include paddle boarding, abseiling and paint balling.

The tour guides are awesome and they are good at getting everyone involved. Even if you are a complete beginner they will look out for you.

Check out the website for Splash Water Rafting for more. 

Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery

One of the most famous whisky distilleries is located on the Heart 200 route. The famous Dewar’s Whiskey is made in Aberfeldy. There is a range of tours to choose from where you can learn about the different types of whisky, single malts and blends.

As well as tours, there are exhibitions which show how the whisky was made. Look at Dewar’s Distillery website to find out more about visits and tours.

Castle Menzies

Since the 15th century, Castle Menzies has experienced a turbulent history. The castle witnessed a Jacobite rising and was a residence for Bonnie Prince Charlie in 1746 at the Battle of Culloden.

Now, the castle has been restored and is run by volunteers. There is a museum and you can view the castle at your own pace.

Castle Menzies is one of the most magical castles in Perthshire.

Schiehallion 

On the way to Tummel Bridge, you will see the peak of the Schiehallion. It is a beautiful conical-shaped Munro which stands out for miles.

For keen mountain goers, you can bag yourself a Perthshire Munro. The route is straightforward and should take five to six hours. Parking is available at Braes of Foss car park. 

Queens View

A lovely lush view of Loch Tummel is available at Queens View. On a clear sunny day, you can get great views out to the Schiehallion and other hill peaks.

At the site, there is a car park, and the viewpoint is only a couple of minutes’ walk from it. Also, there is a gift shop and visitor centre. 

Garry Bridge

Garry Bridge is an excellent sight during the autumn months where you can witness the green bridge against the backdrop of bright golden leaves. It is a perfect place to catch a couple of photographs.

There is a small car park and walking paths along the banks of the river. Also, this is the location of bungee jumping, so if you are not brave enough to do it yourself you can watch and cheer others on. 

House of Bruar

Next on the list is one of the most esteemed shopping retail areas in Scotland. The House of Bruar is just located off the A9 and has a wide range of Scottish souvenirs to choose from.

You can relax in the food hall, try some artisan products, purchase goods from acclaimed butchers, and try some award-winning delicatessen, Scottish whiskeys and unique Scottish gins. 

Also, the House of Bruar is home to the finest cashmere and tweed garments. Moreover, there is an art gallery and a selection of stylish homeware where you can find the perfect gift for a loved one. 

Falls of Bruar

Just behind the Falls of Bruar, you can follow the path to the magnificent Falls of Bruar. The well-defined path goes slightly uphill and leads to the main parts of the walk, the lower falls and the upper falls. 

At the upper falls, you can stand on the stone bridge above the water and watch the water tumble below your feet. At the lower falls, there is an archway and viewpoint with plenty of wildlife surrounding the falls.

It is a pretty sight and perfect for photographs. Between the two falls, there is a plunge pool.

If you are there when the water is deep enough, you might be brave enough to jump in. 

Blair Castle 

The magnificent white castle with incredible grounds including a walled garden. The castle was the residence of the Atholl family for over seven centuries.

Also, politicians, entrepreneurs and soldiers used to live here and throughout the mansion, you can view examples of the best Scottish baronial architecture. 

Moreover, the castle has a restaurant and gift shop where you can buy the best Scottish souvenirs. Diana’s Grove and Hercules Garden are hidden gems to look out for in the gardens.

There is so much to see at Blair Castle, you can spend the whole afternoon relaxing here. 

Killiecrankie Viaduct and Visitor Centre

At Killiecrankie Visitor Centre you can learn about the famous Battle of Killiecrankie which happened back in the 17th century.

The Battle of Killiecrankie is one of the goriest battles between the Redcoats and Jacobites. 

At the site, you can view the Soldiers Leap. This is presumably where a Redcoat soldier leapt 18 feet across the River Garry while escaping from the Jacobite Army.

Also, you can view the Killiecrankie Viaduct which is an impressive ten-arch railway bridge. This is a perfect woodland walk where you can sit by the banks of the River Garry and enjoy being present in nature. 

Killiecrankie Highland Fling Bungee Jump

At Killiecrankie Visitor Centre you will find the Highlands Fling Company. The biggest adrenaline-pumping activity is offered in one of the most scenic spots in Scotland.

The bungee jump is based at Garry Bridge where you can plummet (almost) into the River Garry, As well as bungee jumping, you can try a bridge swing or zip line. 

Pitlochry Dam and Visitor Centre

In the 1950s, many dams were built as part of the hydroelectricity scheme throughout Scotland. You can walk along the dam and a small suspension bridge which is further down the river.

As the dam and the visitor centre is near the centre of town, in the summer the atmosphere here is always lively. 

At the new visitor centre, you can learn about Scotland’s compelling hydro heritage, the construction of the Pitlochry Dam and the fascinating fish ladder.

Also, you can enjoy a cup of lovely fresh brewed coffee while admiring the view of River Tummel and Loch Faskally. 

Black Spout

Black Spout is a 60-metre high waterfall which is viewable from a new viewing platform. The viewing platform is only a ten-minute walk from the car park.

If you are lucky you might get to spot roe deer, greeted spotter woodpecker or a colourful Jay.

Also, you can follow the route upstream past the falls to get to Edradour Distillery. Black Spout is also within walking distance of Athol Palace and Blair Athol Distillery. 

• For more ideas of things to do in Aberfeldy, Kenmore, Aberfeldy and Dull, please read: Things to do in Aberfeldy
• For a more detailed itinerary of Pitlochry, Blair Atholl, Killiecrankie and Bruar, please read: Things to do in Pitlochry

The Riverside East

The next part of the Heart 200 route passes the River Tummel, Ericht and Tay and provides stunning scenery. Also, the section of this route passes through the village of Dunkeld, Blairgowrie and finishes in Perth.

The Hermitage 

The Hermitage is near Dunkeld just off the A9. Back in the 18th century, the Hermitage was designed as a pleasure ground for the Dukes of Atholl.

At the Hermitage you will be surrounded by the tallest trees in Britain. Also, you can admire the thunderous Black Linn Falls, which is viewable from Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors. 

Also, you can follow a pleasant way marked walk which leads from the lower section of the Hermitage and you can take a detour up to Pine Cone Point. The views from Pine Cone Point are spectacular, with amazing views across the River Tay. 

Lowes Nature Reserve

Lowes Nature Reserve has a loch where you can see ospreys from April to August. Also, you may even get a chance to see red squirrels, fallow deer and beavers.

You can get real close to the ospreys by using binoculars, telescopes and viewing live video footage. There is a gift shop and a cafe where you can get wildlife related souvenirs or light refreshments. 

Scone Palace

Scottish Kings including Macbeth, Robert the Bruce and Charles II were all crowned at Scone Palace. Also, many other important figures such as Bonnie Prince Charlie, Mary Queen of Scots and Queen Victoria all have stayed here.

You can view paintings, bed hangings, porcelain and other objects in relation to their time here. Scone Palace is surrounded by beautiful gardens and peaceful woodlands.

There is a tartan amaze which contains 2,000 beech trees half green, half copper, designed by the world famous Adrian Fisher. Also, there is a couple of coffee shops and a gift shop. 

Perth

Perth is Scotland historic capital, the seventh largest city is located on the banks of the River Tay.

There are many pleasant places for a walk in Perth including Kinnoul Hill, Norrie Miller Walk, Rodney Gardens and Branklyn Garden.

Also, Perth is home to many important architectural buildings including Balhousie Castle, St Ninian’s Cathedral and Perth Museum and Art Gallery.

The Historic South

Finally, the last part of the Heart 200 route starts in Perth and finished back in the city of Stirling. The route begins travelling south, past the Bridge of Earn and Lomond Hills to Kinross.

From Kinross, the route heads north wet and passes Gleneagles, Muthill and then Crieff. From there, it is the last stretch of the route which passes Dunblane before arriving back at Stirling.

Loch Leven

Loch Leven is the largest natural shallow water in lowland Britain. Also, Loch Leven is home to more breeding ducks than anywhere else in inland Europe.

You can follow the 13 mile Loch Leven Heritage Trail which extends the whole way around the loch. Also, from Kinross Harbour you can enjoy a boat service that runs to the castle island in the summer.

Drummond Castle Gardens

The gardens from Drummond Castle Gardens is one of the Europe’s and Scotland’s most important and impressive formal gardens. A beech tree is planted by Queen Victoria to commemorate her visit in 1842.

Also, the formal gardens have been present since the 17th century with many upgrades to keep the garden up to its original character.

The castle is not open to the public but the gardens offer marvellous views of the castle and surrounding country side. 

Dunblane 

Dunblane is a historic town which is a few miles north of Stirling. There are a number of good walking trails along the Allan Water.

You can follow a route to Ben Gunn’s Cave. The cave is believed to inspired the classic adventure novel, “Treasure Island”.

There are a few important old buildings including Dean’s House, Leighton Library and Dunblane Cathedral.

Dunblane Cathedral is one of the oldest medieval cathedrals in Scotland which dates back to the 12th century. The cathedral is very atmospheric and it is great to wander round. 

Stirling

Stirling is one of the main towns on the Heart 200. The town is located in the centre of Scotland and it is well known as the gateway to the Highlands.

Also, Stirling marks an important place in the landscape as it is where the rugged highlands meet the rolling hills in the lowlands. 

Stirling has beautiful surroundings, the Dumyat and Ochil Hills are nestled not too far from the town. In the distance, you can see the peaks of Ben Vorlich and Ben Ledi in the Trossachs. 

Stirling Old Town

The Old Town of Stirling brings many visitors every year to explore the history of the city and of Scotland. Stirling Castle is at the top of the Old Town and it is the grandest attraction.

Other attractions near the castle include the Old Town Jail, Cowane’s Hospital and the Church of Holy Rude. Moreover, you can explore the ruins of Mars Walk before heading to the Old Town Cemetery.

In the peaceful cemetery, you can view the Star Pyramid, Martyrs Monument and Grave Robbing headstone.  

The National Wallace Monument 

Building monuments to commemorate heroes from the past became popular in Victorian times. Therefore, in 1869 the National Wallace monument was built to commemorate the life of Sir William Wallace.

You can see the monument for miles and it dominates the skyline of Stirling. From the top, you will get amazing views. 

Places to Eat 

Balgedie Toll Tavern, Wester Balgedie, The Historic South

The quaint tavern is located in Balgedie which is near Loch Leven. The décor and layout are absolutely beautiful.

Throughout the week, the venue hosts pub quizzes and live Scottish music. Also, the staff are friendly and welcoming and it is a proper gem in the countryside.

The Black Bull, Gartmore, Aberfoyle, The Wooded Western Edge

The Black Bull Hotel and Pub is located in the lovely conservation village of Gartmore. The refurbished delightful bar and restaurant is surrounded by the most beautiful scenery in Scotland.

McKay’s Hotel Bar & Restaurant, Pitlochry

McKay’s Hotel is located on the main street of Pitlochry. This bar and restaurant have a delicious menu with local and Scottish produce.

For a nice Scottish welcome make sure you visit the cosy McKays’s Hotel. 

Places to Stay

Pitilie Pods, Aberfeldy, The Highland North

The views are outstanding and the hot tub, decking and table is a lovely touch. Also, there is a lot of lovely walks nearby.

Moreover, Aberfeldy is only a few minutes drive away with plenty of shops and restaurants. This is the perfect to place to go if you feel like you need to completely reset. 

Accommodation options at Pitilie Pods

• Lawers
• Schiehallion
• Beinn A Ghlo
• Ben Vrackie
• Farragon

How Long Does The Heart 200 Take?

We recommend spending at least 5 days viewing most of the sights listed. However, the heart of Scotland is full of interesting things to do and you can spend up to two weeks completing the route.

If you decide to complete the bungee jumping, white water rafting or complete a couple of Munros, you will consider spending at least a week completing the route. 

Final Note

The Heart 200 route showcases the best of Perthshire. This post is the ultimate Scotland road trip guide to the Heart 200.

Many routes have been introduced to Scotland over the past few years to boost tourism in the area. The North Coast 500 is known as the ‘Route 66’ of Scotland and showcases the best of the Scottish Highlands.

Other smaller routes include South West Coastal 300 in Dumfries and North East 250 in Aberdeenshire. For more information on the Heart 200 route, please visit the main website here.