ScotRail has named Blair Atholl in Perthshire as Scotland's answer to Germany's famous Black Forest, describing it as a destination that combines natural beauty, rich history and tranquillity.
The village features in the transport company's Intae-Rail guides, which pair Scottish rail destinations with European hotspots. The Intae Nature guide highlights lochside walks, waterfalls and ancient forests for those who want to reconnect with nature.
An alternative to the Black Forest
According to ScotRail, Scots do not need to travel overseas to explore ancient woodlands. The guide suggests travelling to Blair Atholl, which is full of some of Scotland's most beautiful forests, rivers and mountain landscapes.
ScotRail adds: "Like Germany's Black Forest, Blair Atholl combines natural beauty, rich history and a sense of tranquillity that's easy to fall in love with."
What visitors can explore
Visitors can follow the River Tilt and River Garry through the village and explore the woodland trails around the Atholl Estate. During autumn, the leaves change colour, creating a canopy of yellows, oranges and reds.
Red squirrels can be spotted around the woodland, and Blair Castle, with its white exterior, has been home to the Atholl family for over 700 years. The castle is filled with portraits, tapestries and stone floors, and its gardens range from formal Victorian designs to wild woodland paths.
Suggested itinerary
ScotRail's suggested itinerary for exploring Blair Atholl includes travelling by train to Blair Atholl station, following the River Tilt and River Garry, exploring the woodland trails, keeping an eye out for red squirrels, heading into Glen Tilt for views, stopping for a picnic, and wandering back into the village before enjoying the scenic train journey home through Highland Perthshire.
