"Pitlochry - Tourist Town - But Why? I'll Explain" Tayside Tourist Trap Tip by scotlandscotour

The Victorians started it, flocking to the fresh air and open spaces of the Highlands of Scotland, following the groundbreaking holiday tour by the then Queen - Victoria and the Prince Consort - Albert. Hence the "Queens View", "Coronation Bridge" and then the railway station and hotels everywhere.
But the Pitlochry they came to see has in summer become swallowed up by coach tours, cars and backpackers.
And the Joke? Most come to see the SALMON LADDER. I did too, in 1997 ... Believe me, a concrete dam is not a tourist attraction. It is not beautiful. it is an eye-sore - and very clever marketing by the Energy company to promote it as anything other than an industrial monstrosity, and nothing even special about that! No, its just an ordinary dam, with concrete tanks in sequence, up which the polluted and fished and hassled salmon could swim. Some do. But so few, you would be better off watching paint dry. Avoid feeling disappointed, and avoid the Salmon Ladder. (It's not even unique - many other Dams have them).

Unique Suggestions: Now - Pitlochry is a Superb Place to be, to use as a base for exploring Highland Perthshire, the Upper reaches of the Tay and as a refueling stop.

Walks and Cycle routes abound. There is no need to see another tourist, if you don't want. But if you visit the distilleries, then yes, join the queue.

Get up Ben-y-Vrackie, about 3 hours up and down, then treat yourself to tasty food and beer brewed on site - at the Moulin Hotel.
I'll repeat ... The Moulin Hotel. Old wooden beams, wood fires, locals, and wonderful beer. You deserve it!

Of the distilleries, check out Edradour(near Moulin) - its the smallest in Scotland (officially) and free!!! Its far less "business-like" and in a beautiful sun-trap of a valley, nestling above the town.

Also see: Killiecrankie, Loch Tummel, Loch Rannoch and Standing Stones and further North - Blair Castle, Bruar Falls and Tourist Shop (the pricy but always busy "House of Bruar", modern and big business. Good for produce, but you pay for the ambiance.

Fun Alternatives: Pitlochry is a lovely place, as long as you avoid the Salmon Ladder and do your own thing!

Have a look at http://www.perthshire-scotland.co.uk/ for a great guide to Perthshire and Tayside.

:-)