special interests

Find something a little different to indulge in when you stay in the Highlands of Perthshire:

• Clan Donnachaidh (Robertson)
• Perthshire Trees
• Wildlife
• Art and photography

Clan Donnachaidh (Robertson)

As stated by the eminent historian, William F. Skene in 1837, "The Robertsons of Struan are unquestionably the oldest family in Scotland, being the sole remaining branch of that Royal House of Atholl which occupied the throne of Scotland during the 11th and 12th centuries.

Clan Donnachaidh meaning "The children of Duncan," emerged from the union of the Scottish and Pictish kingdoms. The name comes from the Gaelic word "clann" meaning child and "Donnachaidh" the Gaelic spelling of the name Duncan. Our ancestors were known to the Romans as the Kaledonioi, or Caledonia, one of eleven tribes in the northern Pictish nation. They inhabited the area now known as Atholl in Perthshire.

They were the only race in Europe that could not be defeated by Imperial Rome.

The Clan descends from King Malcolm II, who reigned from 1005 to 1034. The Clan Donnachaidh Society was formed in January, 1893 in Scotland to maintain and renew the family bond among a clan now scattered across the globe.

The Clan Donnachaidh centre, at House of Bruar, houses an excellent museum, shop and genealogy resource centre. The Museum tells the story of Scottish History through the life of the clansmen whilst interpreting Highland Perthshire in the large etched-copper wall map.

Perthshire Trees

Perthshire is "Big Tree Country" Visit some of the most remarkable trees and woodlands anywhere in Europe. Travel along our leafy country roads and

• explore remnants of Scotland's ancient wildwood
• discover where modern forestry began in this country
• wander through the homeland of globetrotting plant hunters
• marvel at the stunning specimens they introduced from around the world
• delight in fanciful follies and grottoes
• perhaps have a close encounter with some of our woodland wildlife

Forests, woods and country gardens offer an unrivalled assortment of glorious greenery, colours changing dramatically with the seasons.

A short trip from the hotel takes you to Europe's oldest tree, the world's highest hedge, Britain's tallest tree, the sole survivor from Shakespeare's 'Birnam Wood', Europe's oldest living thing (the Fortingall Yew est. 3000 - 5000 years old)...the list goes on.

Fully escorted coach excursions from Pitlochry during the season, with fares inclusive of admission fees to all attractions visited. Ask the hotel for full details. Some easy walking is included in all tours, so bring outdoor footwear and (perhaps!) waterproofs. We can supply packed and picnic lunches/snacks. Remember that camera!.

Wildlife

Perthshire, located at the very heart of Scotland, has an unrivalled range of habitats and species. Straddling the Highland Boundary Fault, the area offers the best of both worlds.

Atholl Adventures can arrange for guided photo safaris set in the stunning countryside of Highland Perthshire.

Opportunities abound to view the native flora and fauna of Perthshire in comfort being chauffeured in off road vehicles by experienced guides. They will, weather permitting, be able to locate many interesting animals and birds resident in the area.

The safaris can even stop at some very scenic locations for refreshments high on the hills.

Art and photography

For arts and photography enthusiasts, the area is a paradise.

Aberfeldy Gallery, a 'must visit', was established in 1982 to promote the paintings and craft works of local artists. Under the management of Roger and Merril Sylvester the gallery developed quickly, displaying work by established artists across Scotland.

In 1998 the business was taken over by Steve n and Judy Proudfoot. Steve n had been exhibiting in the gallery for many years. The gallery has continued to develop and is now open all year around.

The work on display has become more contemporary to reflect the interest of the owners and the art buying public and a regular programme of exhibitions focuses on selected themes or individual artists. 2003 saw the opening of a major extension.

For further details contact Steven Proudfoot at:

• steven@aberfeldygallery.co.uk

Other excellent local galleries include

The Atholl Gallery, Dunkeld
6 Atholl Street, Dunkeld PH8 0AR
Tel: 01350 728855
Email: www.athollgallery.co.uk

Glenlyon Gallery
Bridge of Balgie, Glen Lyon, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2PP
Tel: 01887 866260
Email: glenlyon.gallery@virgin.net
Website: www.glenlyongallery.com

Roger Lee Paintings
Calvine, near Blair Atholl, Perthshire PH18 5UA
Tel: 01796 483257
Email: roger@rogerleeart.demon.co.uk
Website: www.roger-lee-paintings.co.uk

Dunalastair Hotel - "The Warm Heart Of The Highlands"

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