July brings summer holidays of course, but also a feeling that it’s time to make the most of any sunny, dry and warm weather that comes along! So it’s natural to be looking for things to do.

In this article we’ve put together a list of three places that offer a number of different options, so you can make decisions based on what type of experience you’d like, whether that’s splashing out on something special, an activity that will keep the kids occupied for a few hours, or an inexpensive way to enjoy the beautiful scenery.

Comrie

Comrie is a fantastic location for having loads of activities being squeezed in and around a relatively small village! If you fancy a walk then there’s the spectacular (and shady) Deil’s Cauldron, Drummond Castle Gardens offers something quite special by way of formal planting, Auchingarrich Wildlife and Adventure Park has something for the whole family, and Cultybraggan Camp boasts a museum, a quirky cafe and some local business premises.

Other places to visit in the area are of course the village of Comrie itself, and not forgetting Comrie Croft, with its guided mountain biking and hiking trails, as well as hosting other local business, including Tomnah’a Market Garden, Comrie Art Hut, Nowhere Sauna, and the Gorse Cafe, where I can recommend the sandwiches!

See what I mean? The place is packed tighter than a hikers backpack with things to do.

Loch Tay

Loch Tay surely has to be one of the most picturesque lochs in Scotland, although of course they all have something going for them! In this case, Loch Tay has the advantage of some sandy beaches, and the fascinating Crannog Centre, with the WildEmber Bothy sauna, wellness tent and paddle board hire also accessed from the same car park.

Speaking of saunas and watersports, the Taymouth Marina on the other side of the loch has a variety of different ways to enjoy the water as well. Hire a pedalo, kayak, canoe and more, or try out the HotBox Spa or floating sauna for pure indulgence.

If walks are your thing then the Falls of Acharn is a popular choice, and now has the Rob Roy Pitstop honesty shop from the Kenmore Bakery nearby. Not to be missed is the lovely village of Kenmore itself. Get yourself an ice cream from the Courtyard, pop into the village shop, and enjoy looking at the historical buildings.

Scone

Although so close as to be almost within Perth, Scone in reality a town in it’s own right, and has it’s fair share of lovely destinations. Scone Palace is perhaps the most famous, and in addition to its usual tours, always has a full calendar of events over the summer. From the Scottish Game Fair to an outdoor cinema, to the Scone Palace Horse Trials, there’s bound to be something that’s your cup of tea.

Murrayhall Hotel offers both golf and fine dining, and La Sicilyana Bistro serves authentic Italian food and wine. Straying just a little outside of Scone but still on the same side of the Tay, the walk up to Kinnoull Hill is perfect for rounding off the day—particularly if you can time it so as to be able to enjoy the evening light from the top.