Allean Forest
Part of the Tay Forest Park, Allean Forest lies on the hillside just west of the Queens View Visitor Centre, high above the shores of Loch Tummel. The waymarked walks through the woods have been established by the Forestry Commission and combine varied terrain and tree species with interesting archaeological remains.
When the forest was being planted, an eighteenth century farmstead was discovered. It is now partly restored and features on the 2 mile/3km Clachan Walk (clachan is the old name for a row of cottages). To the east are the well preserved remains of an eighth century `ring fort` in a commanding position overlooking Loch Tummel. This fascinating site gives its name to The Ring Fort Walk (2.5 miles/4km) which has the added benefit of superb panoramic views. Off-road cyclists are well catered for in Allean Forest, with many of the trails suitable for mountain bikes.
Allean Forest is a good example of planting trees to match differing conditions. Mighty Douglas fir can be founding towering above the ground in drier areas of the forest whilst pine trees thrive amongst the heather. Spruce trees enjoy grassy areas and larch is at home in the bracken. Seed eating birds like siskin, goldcrest and crossbill can often be seen on the lower slopes of the forest amongst the conifer trees. Wildcats and badgers also make their home here but a sighting is largely a matter of luck as these animals are mainly nocturnal. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for red squirrel and the elegant roe deer - these attractive mammals are more easily spotted in the daytime as they forage for food in the forest.
Walks and facilities in the Tay Forest Park are fully described in an excellent leaflet - `A Guide to Tay Forest Park` - available for sale at Pitlochry Tourist Information Centre.
Contact
VisitScotland Pitlochry Information Office
Allean Forest
by Loch Tummel
Perthshire
PH15
Scotland
Tel: +44 (1796) 472215
Fax: +44 (1796) 474046
E-Mail: pitlochrytic@perthshire.co.uk
WWW: http://www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk
