Balavoulin

The stumpy remains of a medieval castle sit on a wooded slope above the River Tilt, about two miles south of Pitlochry. Balavoulin isn't much to look at - we're talking fragmentary stone walls, barely head-height in places - but it's worth the short detour if you're already exploring this stretch of Perthshire. The site feels genuinely removed from the tourist drag, which means you might well have it to yourself on a weekday afternoon.

What draws archaeology enthusiasts here is the layering of occupation. There's evidence of settlement going back centuries, though pinning down exact dates is tricky without proper excavation. The castle itself dates from the medieval period, though subsequent modifications and gradual decay have left it looking less impressive than, say, Blair Castle just up the road.

Walkers will appreciate the woodland setting and the gentle approach from Pitlochry. Bring decent shoes - the ground can be muddy after rain - and allow twenty minutes to reach the site from the car park, though there's little point staying longer than half an hour unless you're genuinely into unpicking medieval settlement patterns. It's free to access, as far as anyone knows, since there's no gate or infrastructure to speak of.

If you're based at River Tilt Park, Faskally Woods, or any of the caravan sites clustered around Pitlochry, Balavoulin makes a decent half-morning excursion. Pair it with a proper walk along the river or a visit to Blair Castle if you want something more substantial. On its own, it's more of a curiosity than a destination.