A Guide to the A9 in Scotland
Perth to Inverness Road is the Gateway to the Scottish Highlands
The A9 stretches from Perth to Inverness, winding its way through some of the most spectacular scenery in Scotland. An important link between the Highlands and Lowlands, it is also popular with tourists. Along the road are many places worth stopping at to experience local culture and history.
Bankfoot, Birnam and Dunkeld
Just north of Perth is the small village of Bankfoot, which is home to the Scottish Liqueur Centre. The centre has a tasting room, café and shop where their unique liqueurs can be purchased.
The first major communities encountered on the A9 are those of Birnam and Dunkeld. Although the road bypasses both of them, it is only a very short detour and well worth a visit. Birnam and Dunkeld sit on opposite banks of the River Tay, connected by Dunkeld Bridge. Birnam has a Beatrix Potter exhibition and garden, along with the Birnam Oak, rumoured to be the only surviving tree from Birnam Wood, which featured in Shakespeare’s Macbeth.
Approaching Dunkeld visitors get their first glimpse of the cathedral, parts of which date from the 12th century. There are several interesting small shops, a few pubs and various eateries. One of the shops is owned by the acclaimed Scottish singer/songwriter Dougie MacLean, who penned, “Caledonia”, one of the country’s best loved folk songs. The shop sells his music along with works by his wife, who is an artist.
The Hermitage, Pitlochry and Killiecrankie
Within walking distance of Birnam and Dunkeld is The Hermitage, an easy woodland walk which provides an ideal break from driving. In the woods visitors will come across an old stone bridge, a Victorian folly and a curious cave which may once have been a shelter.
Continuing northwards the A9 bypasses the town of Pitlochry, one of Scotland’s most populsr tourist destinations. The Salmon Ladder at the dam on Loch Faskally, within an easy walk of the town centre, offers the spectacular sight of the fish leaping into the River Tummel. Pitlochry is renowned for its woollen shops and is also home to the Blair Athol Distillery. Nearby is the Edradour Distillery, the smallest in Scotland.
At Killiecrankie there is a visitor centre which tells the story of the famous battle which occurred there. On July 27th, 1689, the Jacobites defeated the forces of William III. The scene of the battle is a scenic and atmospheric place, which is also reputed to be haunted by the soldiers who fought there.
House of Bruar, Dalwhinnie and Newtonmore
.The House of Bruar is a retail outlet situated on the east side of the A9. It specialises in garments made from lambs wool, tweed and cashmere. There are also some unique items available, including a fine selection of contemporary Scottish rural artworks.
The small community of Dalwhinnie aits at the top of Loch Ericht and is home to the highest distillery in Scotland. The distillery, painted white, is clearly visible when approaching Dalwhinnie and has a visitor centre with frequent tours.
Newtonmore is well known as a filming location for the BBC drama series, “Monarch of the Glen.” Also to be found there is the Waltzing Waters attraction, a spectacular show combining music, lights and, of course, water. Newtonmore also has a scenic hillside golf course and visitors can try the 10km “Wildcat Walk”, which takes in a variety of scenery. Very close to Newtonmore is Kingussie, which is the location for the Highland Folk Museum and is also near the Highland Wildlife Park.
Aviemore and Tomatin
Aviemore is a haven for winter sports fans, as the town provides an ideal base for exploring the nearby Caringorms. The town itself has the feel of an Alpine community, with various ski shops. There is also the sopportunity to take ride on a preserved steam railway.
Between Aviemore and Inverness a detour can be made to the tiny village of Tomatin which, curiously, has a corrugated iron church. There is also a memorial nearby commemorating two Jacobite soldiers murdered while they slept following their defeat at the Battle of Culloden.
Driving Advice for the A9
The A9 was once a single carriageway road all the way between Perth and Inverness. In recent times many sections of dual carriageway have been added, along with several bypasses. In summer the road is busy with tourists, local traffic and trucks. The road has a high accident rate, many of which involve tourists. Be aware of the road frequently changing from single to dual carriageway and pay particular attention at junctions with minor roads, where drivers sometimes pull out onto the A9 without fully appreciating the speed of approaching traffic.
Dalwhinnie Distillery
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