Your Scottish Highlands Experience

Absolutely. The Highlands are far more accessible than many expect: • Direct flights connect many European cities to Edinburgh or Glasgow. • Train travel is simple and scenic. • Driving is easy, with clear routes and well maintained roads. • English is spoken everywhere, and Scottish hospitality is famously warm. • The region feels safe, welcoming, and comfortable for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. For many guests, their trip to Scotland becomes one of the easiest — and most rewarding — European short haul journeys.

There are several excellent castles within easy reach. The most popular include Blair Castle, just 10 minutes away, Castle Menzies near Aberfeldy (around 30 minutes), and Scone Palace and Huntingtower Castle near Perth, which are about 30 to 60 minutes away.

Blair Castle is the closest and one of the most impressive. It is only about 10 minutes away and offers historic interiors, beautiful gardens, and woodland walks.

Yes, it’s very easy to visit one or even two castles in a single day. Many guests combine Blair Castle with a scenic walk or another nearby attraction, or visit Perthshire castles as part of a relaxed day trip.

Not necessarily. Blair Castle can be reached by bus or taxi, and Perth can be accessed easily by train. However, having a car gives you more flexibility to explore at your own pace and reach quieter locations like Castle Menzies.

Blair Castle offers a strong mix of history and atmosphere, with over 700 years of heritage. Scone Palace is also important, as it was the historic crowning place of Scottish kings.

Yes. Most castles can be explored in 1–2 hours, making them ideal for half day or flexible sightseeing trips.

Generally, no. Compared to many European landmarks, castles in this area are quieter and more relaxed, allowing you to explore at your own pace.

Yes. Many visitors combine castle visits with: • Scenic walks (such as Killiecrankie or the Birks of Aberfeldy) • Distillery visits • Time in Pitlochry, Aberfeldy or Perth This makes each day feel varied and enjoyable.

Blair Castle and Scone Palace both have extensive gardens and beautiful grounds, ideal for walking as well as exploring the buildings themselves.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, especially if you plan to explore gardens or surrounding grounds. It’s also worth bringing a light waterproof jacket, as the weather can change.

The Traitors is filmed at Ardross Castle in the Scottish Highlands, about 25 miles north of Inverness. It is a 19th century castle used for both the UK and US versions of the show.

Alan Cumming, host of The Traitors, has strong links to the area. He grew up nearby in Aberfeldy and is now Artistic Director of Pitlochry Festival Theatre, helping to bring international attention to the town.

While specific filming sites are spread across Scotland, the landscapes around Pitlochry closely resemble many of the Highland scenes used in the series, making it a great base for fans.

The most famous nearby location is the Glenfinnan Viaduct, featured in the Hogwarts Express scenes. It can be visited as a longer day trip through some of Scotland’s most scenic routes.

A car is recommended for reaching the more remote and iconic locations, especially Ardross Castle and Glenfinnan. However, local scenery and smaller locations can be enjoyed without one.

In general, no. Outside of peak times at well-known sites like Glenfinnan, most film locations in this region are calm and uncrowded.

Yes. Edinburgh and Glasgow airports are well connected to major European cities, with frequent flights from France, Germany, the Netherlands, and the Nordics. Atholl Palace is approximately 1 hour 15 minutes from Edinburgh Airport by car, or around 2 hours by train.

Absolutely. Pitlochry has its own train station, with scenic direct routes from Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness. A shuttle service is offered from the hotel to and from the station. Taxis are available locally, and many walking paths and attractions are accessible on foot, bicycle rental is also available in the village- best to prebook

Yes. We offer free on site parking for all hotel guests. We also offer electric charging points.

Driving is straightforward, though remember that the UK drives on the left-hand side. Main roads to Pitlochry are well maintained and well signposted.

Yes. Several short and longer walking trails begin right at our doorstep, including forest paths, hillside viewpoints, and riverside trails.

No specialist equipment is needed. Good walking shoes are sufficient. Our routes are easier than Alpine trails and there are routes suitable for all experience levels.

Very. The hotel is surrounded by gardens, woodland, and open landscapes, Pitlochry is a perfect place for calm, fresh air, and slow, scenic days outdoors.

The weather changes frequently but remains mild most of the year. Visitors often enjoy the shifting light, misty hills, and dramatic seasonal colours.

All seasons have something unique to offer: • Spring:  mild weather, fresh greenery • Summer: long daylight hours and comfortable temperatures • Autumn: vibrant foliage and crisp air • Winter: cosy firesides and quieter landscapes

Yes. Our menus feature modern Scottish dishes made from fresh local ingredients, seafood, meats, and seasonal vegetables prepared with familiar flavours.

Yes. We provide a range of vegetarian and lighter dishes that suit vegetarian and health conscious guests particularly well.

Yes. Pitlochry is home to two local distilleries, and we can help arrange tastings or offer guidance at the hotel.

Yes. The hotel dates from the 19th century and retains many original Victorian features. It is a listed building, an authentic heritage property, carefully maintained and full of character.

Very. With mountain views, peaceful gardens, historic lounges, open fires and elegant rooms, the hotel is ideal for couples seeking a memorable, atmospheric stay.

Families are very welcome, and guests can enjoy a relaxing atmosphere with easy access to nature and cultural experiences.

No. Although historic, the hotel is warm, friendly, and relaxed, not formal or intimidating.

Absolutely. The Highlands are far more accessible than many expect: • Direct flights connect many European cities to Edinburgh or Glasgow. • Train travel is simple and scenic. • Driving is easy, with clear routes and well maintained roads. • English is spoken everywhere, and Scottish hospitality is famously warm. • The region feels safe, welcoming, and comfortable for solo travellers, couples, and families alike. For many guests, their trip to Scotland becomes one of the easiest, and most rewarding European short haul journeys.

Yes. Complimentary Wi Fi is available throughout the hotel and is suitable for video calls and remote work.

Yes. Many guests from Nordic countries and the Netherlands use the hotel for workation style stays thanks to quiet spaces and stable internet.

Scotland uses Type G (UK) plugs. We recommend bringing an adapter.

Tipping is appreciated but not expected. A typical amount is 10%, depending on the service.

Yes. Thanks to excellent European flight links and good rail access, many guests visit for 3–5 nights, especially from the Netherlands and France.

Pitlochry is lively in summer but far less crowded than many European holiday regions. The surrounding countryside is spacious, calm, and natural.

Yes. Many European visitors, especially Nordic, French and German guests, choose 5–7 night slow travel stays — ideal for unwinding and exploring at a relaxed pace.