Forter Castle

Forter Castle lies an hour’s drive from Perth, surrounded by quintessentially Scottish landscapes across Glenisla, free to roam and enjoy as you please. Some 400 years ago, warring Argyll’s tried to burn it down – thankfully, unsuccessfully. Lovely restored and refurbished by current owners the Pooley family, this Castle is the ultimate group getaway. Comfortably sleeping up to 16 people, with beds so large they had to be sawed in half and hoisted through windows rather than through doors, we can only apologise in advance for the inevitable first bicker over who nabs which bedroom.

How much Scottish immersion you subject yourselves to, is up to you, but we highly encourage an afternoon with Charles Crombie. The local Action Man can put on Highland Games in the garden suitable for everyone – archery, air rifle, cross bowing, or our favourite axe throwing. Kilts not obligatory. Cross your fingers for sun and lunch on the grass outside, appearing as if by magic from the kitchen inside – a room which has been chiselled out of what was once the castle dungeons. Relax before a local chef conjures up a Scottish banquet of locally caught catch of the day and foraged fare plated up in the Great Hall. On your doorstep is the wonderful Cairngorms National Park for more hiking, mountain biking or simply reindeer spotting. Alternatively, Glenturret Distillery will keep whiskey lovers happy with tastings throughout the year, and fudge tasting for those with a sweet tooth. It is also worth mentioning that for the holy among you there is an intimate 10 seater Chapel in the grounds. After all this Scottish fresh air, you will be enormously grateful to return to the tall walls of the castle and the vast warm fires permanently surrounded by art, history and anecdote. This is a fairytale meeting point, impossibly perfect for experiences you want to be unforgettable.