Craigvinean Forest

Overview

Craigvinean is Gaelic for `crag of the goats`.

This is one of Scotlands oldest managed forests and was created from larch seed brought from the Alps for the Second Duke of Atholl. Such plantings were part of the great expansion of forestry in the eighteenth and early nineteenth century which centered on Perthshire. Between 1738 and 1830 the `Planting` Dukes of Atholl planted some 27 million conifers - `for beauty and profit` - around Dunkeld. Many innovative techniques were employed including scattering seed by cannon. Legend has it that these techniques even established trees on the sheer rock faces of Craig a` Barns, a dramatic 1000ft/300m crag across the River Tay.

Craigvinean has been popular since the time of the Victorians, who delighted in the forest paths leading to follies and dramatic viewpoints, some of which give open views down to Dunkeld and the mighty River Tay. Todays visitors can choose from many excellent routes and the paths network is continually developing. For those with an appetite for longer distance challenges it is possible to walk from Dunkeld, through Craigvinean and the neighbouring Griffin Forest, to the charming town of Aberfeldy. Off-road cyclists are also welcome in both forests.

Craigvinean is home to a thriving population of red squirrels who live on the plentiful supply of conifer cones in the forest. Look out for cones that have been nibbled down to the stalk!
As you wander through the woods reflect also on a scientific study which has shown that red squirrels are either right or left handed and they can swim!
Part of Tay Forest Park - Forestry Commission guide to the Tay Forest Park available from Dunkeld Tourist Information Centre. See also www.perthshirebigtreecountry.co.uk