There are many things to do both inside and outside of Forter Castle. It is ideal as a sumptuous bolt-hole for total relaxation or alternatively, for those wishing to participate in all the area has on offer. Whether it be exploring or relaxing, there are memories to be made while enjoying your stay; this is your luxury Scottish castle retreat so you can choose your own adventure. Forter is located in Glen Isla and is exquisitely positioned and set against a stunning backdrop of rugged Perthshire countryside. The Cairngorm National Park, where Forter Castle is located, has been voted as a ‘Top 20’ place to visit in the world by National Geographic Traveler.
A favorite for a wonderful day event no matter the weather. A local friendly expert will bring tomahawks, archery and cross bows to the castle for guests to enjoy in the grounds. This activity is suitable for all ages (Five years and up). Please note it is only available for groups above six people. Packages are booked upon request and can be adopted to suit bigger, smaller, child and adult only groups, please contact enquiries@fortercastle.co.uk for a bespoke quote for your group. The 'Scottish Sporting Experience' is one of our packages for all the family - axe throwing, archery, air rifles all on the grounds. Alternately organise a trip to the local estate where clay shooting is available in a beautiful setting.
Incredibly, there are hundreds of golf courses within a 90 minutes drive of Forter including famous courses such as Rosemount (40 minutes) Gleneagles (45 minutes), and St Andrews (1.5hr). Golf is a year-round activity with their grounds offering stunning views and a world-renowned welcoming atmosphere. Golfers can take advantage of the many courses nearby, including the world-famous Gleneagles mentioned above, as well as local courses in Alyth, Blairgowrie, and Dalmunzie.
For a casual pub meal close to the castle, we recommend the Glenisla Hotel. If you're looking for a more refined experience, The Fife Arms in Braemar is a fantastic choice for a special lunch or dinner. If you are looking for fresh, local produce, pop to Peel Farm for high-quality local meats. There's also a new deli in Kirriemuir, called Glenkilrie Larder. The House of Bruar is a fantastic stop offering everything from food halls to local produce and high-end country clothing. A great day trip is to visit Edradour Distillery, Pitlochry, and then head to The House of Bruar for shopping and dining. A relaxing break can be found at The Wee House of Glenshee, just a 10-minute drive from the castle, where you’ll find great coffee, cakes, and reliable internet.
Scotland is world-famous for whisky, and there are several excellent distilleries within an hour’s drive from Forter Castle. For a bespoke tasting experience, Journey With Taste offers private whisky tastings at the castle. Whisky lovers will find themselves in the perfect region to explore Scotland’s famous distilleries. Within an hour’s drive of Forter Castle, you can visit Edradour Distillery in Pitlochry, Blair Athol Distillery, Royal Lochnagar Distillery near Balmoral, and Dewar’s Aberfeldy Distillery. For those interested in gin, Persie Distillery in Bridge of Cally offers excellent tastings.
Hunting and fishing are excellent all year around but fishing is particularly popular from January-October each year as its salmon season and from October 1st equally popular for hunting is the pheasant season. Well renowned rivers for salmon and trout fishing are on the doorstep, namely the River Tay. River Isla and the River South Esk. Pheasant, partridge, grouse and stag shooting can all be organised nearby by arrangement. Visiting a local estate you will be using traps located in the beautiful hills only a few miles from Forter Castle. All equipment and coaching (if needed) is provided.
Mountain biking is available all year around. Cycling is a great way to explore the landscape, with bike rentals available from Crighton Cycles or the three complimentary bikes included with your stay. We can also arrange bespoke guided off road tours with a trusted local guide.
Forter is also situated at the base of the Cataran Walking Trail. If you prefer, local guides are available for bookings for a wonderful chance to walk part of the Cateran Trail. The guide will meet you at the castle and take you on one of the many spectacular routes that surround Forter Castle. Options include climbing Mount Blair, located opposite the castle, or tackling some of the Cairngorm and Angus Munros. For a scenic coastal experience, Lunan Bay offers a stunning stretch of beach that’s well worth the drive. Those looking for adventure can arrange an outdoor experience with Naelimits, a local provider offering a range of activities.
Skiing is available at Glenshee 25 minutes’ drive away from Dec-March each year. Glenshee is easily accessible for those wishing to participate in winter skiing and snowboarding.
For the less active, shopping, fine dining and whisky tasting are some popular alternatives. If you do not want to leave the comfort of the castle, inside is perfect for board games, watching your favourite film from our extensive collection or reading in the Great Hall by our enormous log fire. Any time spent in the Highlands is far from wasted and the way you experience this special corner of the world is completely up to you.
Horse riding is a popular activity in the area with numerous opportunities to explore the stunning landscapes around Forter Castle. From guided trail rides through the forest and hills to more advanced trekking across the moors, there are options for riders of all levels. Nearby, you can find several equestrian centers, such as those in Ballater and Braemar, where riding lessons, pony trekking, and bespoke riding experiences can be arranged. The breathtaking scenery, with its rivers, mountains, and woodlands, makes for an unforgettable horseback adventure in this beautiful part of Scotland.
Forter Castle is ideally located for exploring some of Scotland’s most historic castles. If you're heading north, Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse are must-sees. Closer to Forter, you’ll find Scone Palace, Blair Castle, and Balmoral Castle, the famous former residence of Queen Elizabeth II. Other notable castles worth visiting include Glamis Castle, known for its royal connections. Forter sits on the border of Perth and Kinross and Angus, making it the perfect base for castle exploration.
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