The Hemitage Dunkeld
Ah, the Hermitage near Dunkeld! Just the name alone conjures images of a mystical woodland wonderland, where the trees whisper secrets and the rivers babble tales of yore. But let me tell you, dear reader, there's more to this picturesque paradise than meets the eye.
Join me on a rollicking adventure through the whimsical history and eccentric charm of the Hermitage – where fact meets fiction, and reality is just a suggestion.
Picture this: on the western edge of Dunkeld, separated from the town by the river and the road, lies the Hermitage – a place so enchanting it could make even the most stoic Highlander break into song. Managed by the National Trust since the 1940s (thanks, Dukes of Atholl), this woodland wonderland is a hot spot for tourists and nature lovers alike. But don't be fooled by its serene exterior – beneath the tranquil facade lies a treasure trove of quirky tales and offbeat adventures.
First things first, let's talk about scenery. The Hermitage is like something straight out of a fairytale, with the River Braan carving its way through the heart of the landscape like a mischievous sprite on a quest for mischief.
Waterfalls? Check. Rapids? Double check. Towering pine trees and moss-covered rocks? You betcha. It's enough to make even the most cynical traveller believe in magic – or at least invest in a good pair of hiking boots.
Now, let's get to the good stuff – the legends. You see, the Hermitage isn't just a pretty face; it's also home to a whole slew of ancient tales and mythical shenanigans. Ever heard of Ossian? No, not the dude from "Game of Thrones" – the legendary Celtic bard who supposedly hung out here back in the day.
Legend has it that Ossian found inspiration amidst the mossy rocks and cascading waters of the Hermitage, penning epic tales of heroism and romance that would captivate generations to come. Or so the story goes.
But wait, there's more!
Tucked away amidst the trees are the remnants of some seriously quirky follies – ornamental buildings created for the sole purpose of looking pretty. We're talking stone structures with no practical purpose whatsoever, other than to make the Georgian aristocracy feel fancy. Hey, if you've got it, flaunt it, am I right? And flaunt it they did, in true over-the-top fashion.
But perhaps the pièce de résistance of the Hermitage is Ossian's Hall of Mirrors – a place so fantastical it could make Alice herself do a double take. Picture this: you're standing in a tiny stone building overlooking a roaring waterfall, surrounded by reflective metal walls covered in etchings of epic heroes and grand vistas. It's like stepping into a Celtic fever dream – part history, part fantasy, and all kinds of fabulous.
So there you have it, folks – the Hermitage near Dunkeld in all its quirky glory. Whether you're a history buff, a nature lover, or just someone in search of a good story, this magical oasis has something for everyone. So pack your sense of adventure and get ready to explore – who knows what hidden treasures you'll uncover along the way?
Maybe even see the salmon leaping at the falls
