Follow in the footsteps of the Caterans on an incredible walk across the heart of Scotland. At 64 miles (103km), this is a walk that explores the beautiful scenery of the secluded border between Perthshire and Angus, such as verdant glens, picturesque woodland and waterfalls.
6 to 7 nights
64 to 64 mls (km)
Central Scotland
Moderate
Mar to Oct
£560
Walk Through Picturesque Highlands Scenery on The Cateran Trail
Blairgowrie, a quaint market town flanked by the River Ercht
Bridge of Cally, a petite village which sits at the junction of 3 magnificent glens; Glenshee, Strathardle and Glenericht
Enochdhu,otherwise known as ‘Black Meadow’ or ‘moor’, this was where the Caterans once gathered after a raid
Spittal of Glenshee, situated at the heart of the eastern Perth highlands with small streams surrounding it
Cargill’s Leap, a famous rapid where a 17th century covenanter daringly escaped from government troops
Our Cateran Trail walking route take you through the Spittal of Glenshee
Cateran Trail Walking Holidays Made Easy
At 103 km, the Cateran Trail is an excellent walk for those seeking to experience an authentic Scottish landscape. Immerse yourself in the culture of Highland towns and villages, follow in the footsteps of the Caterans and explore the amazing glens and hills of Perthshire.
From advice on where to fly from (for international walkers) to organising accommodation and transport, we take care of the finer details. Whether you need guidance on which walking trails to pursue or are intermediate walkers looking for a new challenge, with 20 years of experience, you can rest assured knowing we will successfully match your needs.
Our Cateran Trail walking routes take you on a circular walk of the Scottish Highlands, starting in Blairgowrie
Path Walkthrough
Starting in Blairgowrie, there is a footpath following the river, with moorland scenery towards the Bridge of Cally and a descent through Blackcraig forest and clear, open landscape to Kirkmichael. The walk from Kirkmichael is largely composed of farm road through the glen, with several streams and bog to cross over and a steady ascent and descent to Spittal of Glenshee.
Rough moorland path on the next day, with more stream and bog to Kirkton of Glenisla - a varied day, packed with wild scenery. The next day from Kirkton begins with steep climbs through heather passing through Kilry wood followed by a descent between the hills of Alyth and Loyal into Alyth. The final walk from Alyth to Blairgowie passes over moorland and farmland tracks before descending over the bridge of Cally for the return to BlairGowrie.
We can upgrade your accommodation on this trail to a higher 'Classic Plus' standard. As with our other itineraries - we can adjust and tailor a custom 'Classic Plus' itinerary to your needs.
Good standard accommodation at a mixture of Guesthouses, Farmhouses, local Inns and B&Bs with en-suite or private facilities wherever possible, breakfast, luggage transfers (one bag per walker, max 18kg per bag)
Personal transfer between accommodation and path where necessary
Route planning
Walk Pack including Trail Guide, itinerary, accommodation directions, local interest leaflets and holiday planning
You choose which day you would like your holiday to start on. We will book your holiday in accordance with your requirements.
Our Cateran Trail holidays are available to walk March to October.
Conventional wisdom on British weather applies here, although generally the climate of Perthshire & Kinross is going to be more liable to rainy spells than the rest of the country (with the exception of the more westerly regions).
In mid-June, the annual Cateran Yomp - a large fundraiser for the Soldiers Charity - takes place. Our advice is to avoid that particular weekend unless you want to be involved in it: https://www.soldierscharity.org/events/the-cateran-yomp/
By Air: Nearest airport is located in Edinburgh (regular bus/tram to Edinburgh City for transport connections).
By Rail: Nearest railway station is located in Perth.
The two main routes passing through this station are the Glasgow/Dundee service and a train to/from Edinburgh via the Fife coast.
The overnight Caledonian Sleeper service between Inverness and London and the daily Virgin Trains East Coast Highland Chieftain service between Inverness and London Kings Cross call at this station
By Bus: Bus stations are located in Blairgowrie and Perth
Frequent bus services from Perth to Blairgowrie (45 minute journey)
If you prefer to arrive by car, we can advise on car parking arrangements.
Looking for different mileages or a different number of nights? Please contact us to discuss how our itineraries can be adjusted to meet your specific needs. Call one of our helpful team on +44 (0)1291 689774 or e-mail us here.
Cateran Trail Client Reviews
4.9/5 based on 11 reviews
"A great first experience of walking holidays, and Scotland!" Schaefer - September 2018
This first experience of a walking holiday and Scotland was great. We most enjoyed the scenery, tranquillity and warm welcomes everywhere. C.S. - September 2018
We have walked with another company before and the mapping we received for this walk was better. W - July 2018
We have walked with you before, having heard of you via word of mouth, and you met our expectations again.
We thoroughly enjoyed our trip. D&P - July 2018
We have walked with Celtic Trails twice before and we would gladly walk with you again.
We most enjoyed the beautiful scenery, the animals and the Scots! Prentice & Shuderburger - July 2018
We heard of you via a friend who walked with you previously and you met our expectations. R&F Southecoruo - May 2018
"Instead of walking the Spittle of Glenshee to the Mount Blair road end section, I started by climbing up Mount Blair first and then walked on to Kirkton & Glen Isla. This made a full and very interesting day. The viewpoint on Mount Bllair is amazing - Ben Lomond to south. Schiehallion to west and Ben Macdui to the north." Law - August 2017
"Wonderful isolated landscape with a great B&b to end the walk. We hardly saw anybody on the Cataran Trail. Some parts not so well waymarked, but no problems. Well organised as with all Scotland holidays we have taken with you." Peute - October 2015
First time for me with any company - Celtic Trail were well organised, absolutely no problem with any aspect of the walk (trail description, accommodation, transfers. This walk reinforces my feeling that it is important to remain active at any stage - very satisfied that I was capable of achieving my aim". D. Hesketh - January 1970
Celtic Trails have always provided an excellent service and respond well to individual needs. Much better than the one other company we used once, many years ago. Michael Hendry - September 2021
Celtic Trails does what it says on the tin! Eddie & Carol, Hereford - September 2021
Leave your own review of your Cateran Trail Walking Holiday with us - add review.
We will check your details and come back to you within two working days with a personalised estimate based on your requirements. We will then formally request a deposit of £150 per person (£100 per person for a single centre break) and book all your arrangements - find out about our full booking process here.
Please note this does not constitute a booking confirmation, we kindly ask you to refrain from booking any travel until we have confirmed all your arrangements.
Still Have Questions?
If you are still unsure on any of your requirements, please do enquire with us first and one of our friendly team will be happy to help you with any queries you have.
Walk 
Blairgowrie to Blairgowrie
