4 Best Sights in Aberfeldy, Stirling and the Central Highlands

Here's your chance to travel back 2,500 years to a time when this region's inhabitants lived in circular homesteads known as crannogs. Standing on stilts in the middle of lochs, these dwellings were approachable only by narrow bridges that could be easily defended from intruders. This center reveals the strength of these surprisingly comfortable communal homes that were built entirely of wood, right down to the nails. Visits are by guided tour, beginning with an interesting exhibit on construction methods, followed by some fun with Neolithic lathes and tips on lighting a fire without matches. You can also reserve ahead to paddle a dugout canoe onto beautiful Loch Tay. It has limited hours of operation in November, February, and March, but there are special events throughout the year.

A 16th-century fortified tower house, Castle Menzies contains the Clan Menzies Museum, which displays many relics of the clan's history. The rooms have been carefully restored, including the bedroom where Bonnie Prince Charlie once took refuge. The castle stands west of Aberfeldy, on the opposite bank of the River Tay. A walled garden is nearby. The castle has a tearoom that is open on some Saturdays and Sundays.

This established distillery offers tours that demonstrate how Aberfeldy single-malt whisky is made (with a tasting at the end, of course); audio guides and interactive screens add to the appeal. There's also a worthwhile Heritage Center and a pleasant restaurant. The basic tours are £9, but there are more expensive tours for whisky experts, including cask tastings. Dewar's also makes blended whiskies.

One of central Scotland's most attractive glens, 34-mile-long Glen Lyon is also one of its longest. It has a rushing river, thick forests, and the typical big house hidden on private grounds. There's a dam at the head of the loch, a reminder that little of Scotland's scenic beauty is unadulterated. The winding road lends itself to an unrushed, leisurely drive, past the visitor center at the access to Ben Lawers, a popular climb.