The Pass of Killiecrankie, 6 miles north of Pitlochry in Highland Perthshire, is famed in song and story as the scene of the first skirmish of the Jacobite Rebellion in 1689, where 'Bonnie Dundee' met and routed government forces under General Mackay. Now, with its historic Soldier's Leap, it is a famous beauty spot and on its now peaceful slopes is Killiecrankie Lodge, a newly built, well-appointed log cabin, with an ecologically sound turf roof. (It's not often you get the chance to sleep in a house-with-a-haircut!)
The lodge is one of four, situated on a working farm and standing high above the valley with views of Ben Vrackie and the surrounding hills. There is decking to the front, from which to enjoy these views, perhaps while relaxing with an evening drink, and a ramp to the door makes it accessible for less able visitors. The interior is cosy, comfortable and well-furnished, with an open plan living area and two bedrooms, all electrically heated with night-storage and panel heaters. With one of the bedrooms having bunk beds, the cabin is ideal either for three adults or for two adults and two children.
This is a great centre for touring in all directions. There is a hotel just a mile away at Killiecrankie itself and there are shops, a hotel, golf course and the well-known Blair Castle about three miles up the road at Blair Atholl, where there is also a small spa and swimming pool. Pitlochry has all facilities, including its famous Festival Theatre. You are also only four miles from the A9 trunk road, which will whisk you up to Aviemore (48m), Inverness (78m), south to Perth (33m), or even, by branching off at Dalwhinnie, over to the north west coast.
In winter, skiers are within easy reach of the Glenshee Ski area (30m). There are many excellent golf courses in the area. Fishermen may wish to try their hand in the Tay, or some of the other rivers and lochans round about. And of course, the walking is just wonderful - from here, intrepid hikers, or mountain bikers for that matter, can even head over the hills to Braemar and Royal Deeside.
Short drives will take you 'by Tummel and Loch Rannoch' through some glorious Highland scenery, or head for Loch Tay, where you can visit the Iron Age crannog or participate in the numerous water sports which are sited there.
Bed linen, towels and electricity are all INCLUDED in the rental. Up to two well behaved pets are welcome by arrangement.
