Don’t be fooled by its remote, rugged landscape and unspoilt wilderness – the vast and open environment of the Scottish Highlands is a natural playground filled with possibilities for the whole family. With activities as vast as its spectacular landscape, there are many fun things to do in Scotland that will keep adults and kids alike entertained and inspired for hours on end. Play, explore and roam in this magical destination that is without a doubt one of the best places to stay in Scotland for families. Read on to discover ideas for your next Scottish Highland family holiday using our handy family-friendly guide.
This Guide Includes:
- Family-Friendly Activities
- Iconic Scottish Views
- Must-Try Scottish Food
- Best Places to Stay
1. Top Family-Friendly Activities in Highland Perthshire
Highland Safaris
Aberfeldy, PH15 2JQ
Just a short drive from our luxury hotel in Pitlochry, Highland Safaris is a firm family favourite and a must-try experience to explore the beauty and diversity of the Scottish Highlands first-hand. Through mountains, forests and even lochs – your family will be taken on an epic adventure and a rare opportunity to explore stunning terrains of your choice and an abundance of wildlife led by an expert safari ranger.
River Tubing
Nae Limits Activity Centre, PH9 0LG
Get your heart pumping and jump, splash and float through rivers, rapids and gorges, all while experiencing some of the best natural locations in the Highlands first-hand. Tackle white water rafting, canyoning and adventure tubing – whether you’d prefer a peaceful float in a beautiful gorge or a need for speed in the turbulent rapids, there is something for everyone to enjoy at Nae Limits Activity Centre.
Horse and Pony Trekking
Blair Atholl, Pitlochry, PH18 5TH
Embrace the wilderness of the Highlands at Atholl Estates and set off on an adventure by exploring it on horseback, or give your children something to be thrilled about with their own pony ride through stunning open vistas. Experience the hills, woodlands and historic castles that make Scotland famous on your own family adventure.
Go-Karting, Bowling & More
Noahs Perth, PH1 1QE
There’s no way of predicting Scottish weather, so be prepared to embrace the many indoor activities on offer for the whole family. You won’t be able to get the kids out of Noahs with its abundance of entertainment, from go-karting and bowling to arts and crafts; you will be spoilt for choice with something to suit every adult and child.
Cycling
Sluice Loop from Kinross, KY13 9WS
The Highlands is a haven for cyclers of all abilities, with breathtaking views and dramatic scenery at every corner. Enjoy an easy and idyllic cycling route close to our hotel and enjoy one of the quieter sides of Scotland with a variety of landscapes to cover, including infamous lochs, magical woods and marshlands packed with wildlife. If you’re keen on exploring more routes, look at our top 5 family-friendly cycle routes in Scotland.
2. Must-see Iconic Scottish Views and Outdoor Activities in Scotland for Families
Queen’s View, Pitlochry
Distance from Dunalastair Hotel Suites: 14 miles | Price: free
Recognised as one of the most photographed locations in Scotland, the Queen’s View is a haven of natural beauty that you have to see for yourself. Just 30 minutes away from our award-winning hotel, it’s well worth a visit for a perfect photo opportunity for you and the family or to take in the incredible views on offer.
Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel
Distance from Dunalastair Hotel Suites: Glenfinnan Viaduct: 83.2 miles / Loch Shiel: 91.7 miles | Price: Free
This remarkable view may look familiar, and there’s a good reason why. Glenfinnan Viaduct and Loch Shiel are not only famous for being one of the most iconic and historical attractions in Scotland but also for its starring feature throughout the Harry Potter films. Soak up the dramatic mountain backdrop, immerse yourself in history and try and get a glimpse of the magical ‘Hogwarts Express’ steam train.
Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
Distance from Dunalastair Hotel Suites: 69 miles | Price: free
You cannot leave the Highlands without seeing the infamous vast beauty of its famous Lochs – experience this and more at The Trossachs National Park. You are truly spoilt for choice with a staggering 22 lochs to explore, including the famous Loch Lomond, with each Loch having their own unique characteristics. Whether you’d prefer to stroll beside the loch at sunset and enjoy a picnic beside its tranquil waters or get more involved with a paddle, swim or sailing experience, you will not want to miss out on this experience.
Rannoch Moor
Distance from Dunalastair Hotel Suites: 16.4 miles | Price: free
Described as one of the last remaining wildernesses in Europe, Rannoch Moor is an environment that epitomises Scotland’s rugged beauty. With a variety of exhilarating walks and bike rides for all abilities to enjoy, this unique landscape is full of character and interesting inhabitants with a wealth of plants, flora and wildlife.
The View From Atop Mount Schiehallion
Distance from Dunalastair Hotel Suites: 4.8 miles | Price: free
If you’re looking for picture-perfect Scottish views that will lead your family on an epic adventure, then scaling the magnificent Mount Schiehallion will be a sure feat to get involved in. There’s nothing more rewarding than conquering one of Scotland’s famous mighty Munro’s with epic Highland views as your reward.
3. Must-Try Scottish Food
Getting the balance between family-friendly food and experiencing traditional cuisine can be difficult, but luckily delicious Scottish food is just as famous as its landscape and is diverse enough to suit parents and kids alike. Check out these must-try dishes for the whole family.
Don’t leave Scotland without trying…
Haggis
If you’re in Scotland, there’s no escaping this famous dish. Packed with flavour and spices and traditionally served alongside neeps and tatties, it represents the very best of traditional Scottish cuisine. Check out everything you need to know about haggis and see for yourself its versatility and the many ways to enjoy it.
Porridge
Oats are enjoyed by many families universally, but the porridge is something of a staple in Scotland and has spanned across the generations. While it can be made traditionally, the Scotts have found ways to curate multiple sweet and savoury options – even with a tipple of whiskey (for the older ones in the family!). In fact, Scotts rave about the traditional dish so much that there is a dedicated Porridge Grand Tour to be explored.
Grouse
Grouse is native to Scotland, so while it can be found elsewhere in the UK, the distinctive, rich and gamey flavour is unbeatable when sourced in the heart of the Highlands. Varied in style and flavour, there are many ways to enjoy it, but families will love this Scottish game roasted or stewed in a warming casserole.
Shortbread
Loved and adored by so many – traditional Scottish shortbread is a divine treat that you and the family won’t be able to resist. The perfect snack or dessert, its sweet and buttery taste can be enjoyed with teas and coffees or even served with raspberry and local honey. Scotts offer a whole host of flavours to try, from chocolate and caramel to delicate rosewater, which you’ll find at Dunalastair Hotel Suites.
4. Best Place to Stay in the Scottish Highlands for families
Dunalastair Hotel Suites provides you with the best solution for your next luxury family holiday in Scotland at our exclusive location, right in the heart of the Highlands. Our 5-star luxury hotel in Scotland offers you everything- convenient family suites, hearty traditional Scottish dishes served at our incredible restaurant ‘Monadh’ and an ideal location that is perfect for your next family activity holiday in Scotland. When booking your next family stay with us, you can take advantage of our family voyagers special offer.
To enjoy a family adventure of a lifetime in the heart of the Highlands, book your next Scotland family holiday with us at Dunalastair Hotel Suites online. Alternatively, call us today on +44(0)1882 580444.