Lizzie Anderson explores the majestic glens, historic towns and ancient forests of Perthshire.

AUTUMN has always been my favourite season and I cannot think of a better place to enjoy the season of mists and mellow fruitfulness than Scotland. In autumn it takes on fiery golden glow that takes my breath away.

This year, my boyfriend Peter and I decided to explore the majestic glens, historic towns and ancient forests of Perthshire, the adventure capital of Scotland. Our destination was the four star resort of Moness on the outskirts of Aberfeldy. Located on Scotland’s longest river, the River Tay, Aberfeldy is the country’s first Fair Trade town and is home to many shops and attractions. It is also a popular choice for walkers, cyclists and countryside lovers wishing to discover all that Perthshire has to offer.

The Moness Hotel and Resort is a former hunting lodge which dates back to 1758. It now boasts a range of individually styled deluxe, superior and luxurious suites, perfect for relaxing at the end of a long day of sightseeing. Peter and I stayed in one of the 106 self-catered cottages, which are spread across 35 acres of well manicured, wooded gardens and range from one to three bedrooms. Our cottage, Housemartin, was a modern holiday home located in a pretty courtyard development. It was very much a home-from-home. The large bedroom featured a king size bed and immaculate en-suite bathroom. Downstairs was a further toilet and shower room, cloakroom to store coats and muddy hiking boots and a large living area, with a well-equipped kitchen and dining table. There was also a comfortable couch/sofa bed, an arm chair, flat screen television, DVD player and double doors leading out to a patio.

We enjoy cooking and tucked into a tasty meal of Scottish salmon before settling down for a cosy night in. However, for holidaymakers who prefer a break from the kitchen - or at least the washing up - the Moness Resort offers a choice of eateries, serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. For the ultimate in fine dining, the Flemmyng Restaurant specialises in fresh, stylish dishes created from meat, fish and game sourced in Perthshire. The Terrace Grill is less formal and offers lighter dishes in a relaxed setting overlooking the swimming pool. Venture into Aberfeldy and there are pubs and restaurants to be found.

The next morning we were eager to take advantage of the resort’s leisure facilities, which include bike hire, a sports hall and a spa, offering a variety of indulgent treatments. There is also a heated swimming pool, hot tub, sauna and steam room, where we spent a relaxing few hours before heading out for a walk. There are many paths and trails to be found near Moness, including the Rob Roy Way. Peter and I enjoyed a stroll around the Birks of Aberfeldy, a beautiful nature reserve featuring waterfalls and woodland. The 3.5km walk is named after Robert Burn’s famous song, which was inspired by the countryside of the area.

After a late lunch, we jumped into the car and headed to the small town of Creiff, marvelling at the stunning scenery along the way. When we reached our destination the heavens opened so we headed on towards the historic village of Killin. Here we enjoyed a cup of coffee in the local pub as the rain subsided and then watched the spectacular Falls of Dochart, a series of rapids that pass through the village. The light was beginning to fade by this point so we returned to the car and drove along the length of Loch Tay, just in time to observe a beautiful sunset in the village of Kenmore.

We had to set off home quite early the next day and left hungry for more. Activities still on our to-do list include a highland safari, tour of Scone Palace and a trip to the Highland Chocolatier.

TRAVEL FACTS

The Moness Resort, Aberfeldy, Perthshire, PH15 2DY.

Hotel rates are from £79 per room for B&B.

Cottages, sleep min of 4, from £65 a night for min 2 nights stay, self-catering.

01887-822108

Website: moness.com