Local Attractions
In the area you'll find over 35 different adventure activities, that are guaranteed to get the heart pumping, send the adrenaline levels soaring and keep you coming back for more! Crieff is only around an hour from Edinburgh or Glasgow by car so what are you waiting for - get some friends together, escape the 'weekly grind' and test your limits and revitalise your senses in one of the most stunning and accessible parts of Scotland!
FISHING
Perthshire has some of the best fishing in Scotland. On the river Earn in nearly all weathers you can find many people trying their luck during the fishing season. If some of the members of your group prefer cycling or walking there are some beautiful on and off road tracks within striking distance. Crieff Hydro also has an off road quad and 4x4 track which is popular with both residents and people staying in nearby accommodation. Merlindale is only a stone’s throw away from all the above activities.
Cliff jumping white water rafting or even a micro light flight is within less than an hour from Merlindale in Crieff and we can usually give you contact numbers etc on how to get hold of any of these activities. If you love nature the Highland Adventure Safari near Stirling is only 30 minutes away from Merlindale in Crieff by car. It is a great day out for both adults and children and for a family the cost is quite reasonable; certainly value for money. Again any information you need regarding this day out can be obtained from Merlindale in Crieff.
If the North Sea Coastline or the magnificent Tay River and Estuary is the kind of scenery you like, then within a quick drive from Merlindale in Crieff, you may be amongst some of the most spectacular scenery within the British Isles. The Grampian Mountains with their unspoilt glens can be seen from the top floor of Merlindale; all of these are again within striking distance.
Around about Crieff you will find a mixture of old and new market towns as well as traditional coastal villages, Muthill with it’s old Church, the Innerpeffery
Crieff being very central draws people from all over the world. Morison’s Academy and Ardvreck as well as Glenalmond and Dollar are all well known schools within the vicinity. Many foreigners send their children here for an example of what British Education can be.
Gleneagles where the G8 summit is to be held in 2005 is only 10 minutes away and boasts a number of activities. From golf to outstanding dining, falconry and even croquet, these are just a few of any number of activities open to you at Gleneagles.
To a lesser degree but more within the family budget Crieff Hydro specializes in family holidays. From Grandma to infant there is something available to anyone who wishes to stay there.
GOLF
Perthshire has a long golfing legacy, indeed it is ironic that James IV of Scotland, who tried to ban the game as it conflicted with archery practice, made the first recorded purchase of golfing equipment - a set of clubs from a Bow Maker in Perth in 1502!
This golfing heritage and recent course developments ensures that there is a wide range of options for golfers of all ages and abilities. Choose from scenic Highland layouts, idyllic parkland settings, world famous centres such as Gleneagles and Rosemount at Blairgowrie and many 'hidden gems' spread throughout the area. The main challenge won't be navigating your way successfully around the course, more keeping your eye on the ball amidst such stunning surroundings.
CYCLING
Here you'll find some of the best cycle routes in the UK if not in Europe! The magnificent panoramic views, diverse wildlife and miles upon miles of little used routes throughout the area’s 2,000 square miles will enliven your every sense. You can choose between routes which roll gently over rural south Perthshire and onto the Fife Millennium cycleways, or rugged Highland tracks and quiet roads in the north and west of the area.
Perthshire is a destination for all seasons, but if you want stunning scenery and vivid colours, come cycling in autumn when the tree-lined hillsides and glens are resplendent with their coat of blazing coppers, orchres and golds.
Off-roaders are well-accommodated for too. Here you will find an extensive selection of little used Highland forestry and other tracks, many of which are close to the main A9 road route north .
