Bridge of Cally

The Bridge of Cally Hotel in Perthshire is based at the foothills of Glenshee, at the point where the rivers Ardle and Ericht meet. It is not far from Blairgowrie and boasts a nearby secret woodland trail, a conservatory restaurant led by an imaginative chef and a cosy bar with a log-burning stove. Guests also benefit from free on-site parking.

Inviting rooms

Guest rooms at the Bridge of Cally Hotel offer contemporary comforts in a rustic setting. All 18 rooms are ensuite and some face the bridge and rivers. Facilities include a flat screen TV, Scottish toiletries, and tea and coffee making facilities. Superior rooms are bigger and have views of the rolling hills.

Seasonal local cuisine

The hotel’s conservatory restaurant is a cosy dining spot with a real log fire, comfy seating and views of the river. The chef uses locally sourced ingredients to craft a hearty menu with added flair.

The menu changes seasonally but hopefully the award-winning haggis and black pudding tower starter will be available. Mains might include the 28-day matured 10oz prime ribeye steak, the Prosecco-battered cod and the venison casserole. For vegetarians, there are dishes like the wild mushroom ravioli with a white wine and shallot velouté.

Desserts might feature the hot Belgian chocolate sponge pudding and the lemon posset with biscotti. After dinner, you can relax in the bar and sample the selection of malt whiskies, real ales, gins and even sparkling cocktails.

Glorious Glenshee

The Bridge of Cally Hotel is handily placed at the gateway to the Highlands, offering plenty of sightseeing opportunities. Once known as “the glen of the fairies”, Glenshee is full of local lore and legend. You can also take your pick from a range of nearby activities, including golf, fishing, shooting, mountain biking, skiing, bird watching and hiking. The Cateran Walking Trail actually goes right past the hotel and leads along the River Ericht to Cargill’s Leap waterfall. The Glenshee ski centre is just twenty minutes away. Other attractions within an hour’s drive include the pretty town of Alyth, Balmoral Castle and Loch Lochnagar Distillery.