Atholl Woods Walk, Dunkeld
| Distance | Approximate Time | Height Gain | OS Map |
| 10.75 kms | 02:30 (hrs:mins) | 300 metres | Explorer 379: Dunkeld, Aberfeldy & Glen Almond |
Description
Atholl Woods stretch over many acres of hill country to the north of Dunkeld offering delightful walks and open views around the vast conifer plantations. The longest circuit begins from the Cally car park (GR 023 438), is waymarked and also clearly illustrated on a leaflet/map available from Dunkeld Tourist Information Centre. The trees are regularly harvested and the cleared areas provide many wonderful views from the forest tracks. To the southwest the lochs of Craiglush, Lowes and Butterstone are clearly seen; to the north the valley of the River Tay stretches out, framed by high mountains.
The walk through Atholl Woods passes along the banks of two small but attractive lochs. Mill Dam always has large numbers of wildfowl, including widgeon, mallard and tufted ducks. Polney Loch, also known as the Goat's Pool, lies beneath the imposing cliffs of Craig a' Barns and has a distinctly Swiss atmosphere created by its situation and scenery. Close to the edge, the stealthy grey heron can often be seen waiting motionless to spear an unsuspecting fish or frog.
There are many possibilities for other longer and shorter walks in the area, as described on the map board at Cally car park.
Access Info
The Atholl Woods are accessible by a waymarked route that starts at the Cally car park, located off the A923, north of Dunkeld. Dunkeld is well served by local buses and coaches on the Perth - Inverness route.
Additional Info
The Atholl Woods Walk is part of the Dunkeld & Birnam Waymarked Walks network. Excellent leaflet with outline maps available from local tourist information centres in Perthshire. The leaflet details 8 different waymarked walks in the Dunkeld and Birnam area covering a total distance of 36 miles/57km.
Other attractions in the Dunkeld and Birnam area include Dunkeld Cathedral, the Beatrix Potter Garden and Exhibition and the Loch of the Lowes Visitor Centre and Wildlife Reserve. There is a range of hotels and cafes in both Dunkeld and the neighbouring community of Birnam.
Free Big Tree Country Guide also available from any Perthshire Tourist Information Centre. Packed with information on walking, cycling and wildlife watching at over 65 woodland and countryside sites, this is the ideal companion to help you explore Perthshire?s great outdoors. See also www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk
