Category: Self Catering

Capture the Magic: Lochscape Photography and Stargazing, Briar Cottages in Lochearnhead on Loch Earn

8/3/2025

Ethereal sun light rising through the misty clouds over LochN Earn

Sunrise, Briar Cottages, by Kim Proven

Nestled within the enchanting scenery of Lochearnhead in the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park, Briar Cottages on Loch Earn, presents a paradise for photographers and stargazers alike. This captivating haven offers unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in nature's beauty, from dawn till dusk and beyond.

Blawn Wi The Wind sculpture at night, Briar Cottages, Loch Earn

Photographic Paradise:
Whether you’re an amateur photographer with a smartphone or a seasoned professional with a DSLR, Lochearnhead’s romantic ever changing landscapes provide a magnificent canvas. Seasonal weather and a seiching tide can alter Loch Earns surface throughout the year. Serene waters will mirror the surrounding peaks, creating stunning reflections and ever-changing vistas as the light shifts throughout the day. Guests staying in luxury Briar Steading and Little Briar pet friendly cottage, can pick their moments when the light or dark is right for them. Be decisive though, as sometimes waiting too long can mean missing out on those magical colors and patterns. The scenes you witness can transform in an instant meaning that your magic moment can no longer be recorded and shared, only remembered.

Pink, lavander and blue sunset colours on Loch Earn behind the stag statue on the hilly stone bank and front lawn of Briar Cottages

Stan The Stag, sunset colours, Briar Cottages garden on Loch Earn

Here are some must-capture moments:

Sunrise and Sunset: Lucky guests will begin the day witnessing the golden, peach and pink hues of sunrise casting a magical glow across Loch Earn. As evening approaches, sunsets can paint the sky and loch in brilliant shades of orange, pink, lavender and even turquoise -perfect conditions for capturing dramatic silhouettes of mountains, trees and the BLiSS trail art sculptures in the loch garden.

Close shot of black and gold ringed dragonfly landed on patio paving at Briar Steading

Golden Ringed Dragonfly at Briar Steading

Pine Marten

Wildlife Wonders: The diverse fauna around Lochearnhead is a delight for wildlife photographers. From the graceful flight of ospreys to the playful antics of red squirrels, and the majestic presence of deer and stags, the area teems with life waiting to be captured through your lens. You may be lucky with visiting wildlife. Alternatively, book a wildlife walk or off road vehicle tour with one of the local area experts like Aquila Wildlife and Nature CIC or Kestrel Wildlife Safaris. You are guaranteed to spot photogenic wildlife at Auchingarrich Wildlife Park, from Flamingoes to new born chicks; meercats, Highland Cattle and so much more.

Stan The Stag metal statue barely visable against the dark and green reflections on Loch Earn coming from the castel and mountain opposite. There is snow visible on the Munro behindroi

Edinample Castle, snow capped Munro, seen from Briar Cottages, Loch Earn garden behind Stan The Stag

Historical Landmarks:
The ancient structures around Lochearnhead tell stories of a bygone era. Edinample Castle, with its storied past and ghostly legends, provides a hauntingly beautiful subject seen from the water. The Glen Ogle Viaduct, once part of the railway network, offers an impressive backdrop with its stone arches and lush surroundings. Original railway bridges on the old Lochearnhead to Comrie railway and the original platforms on the Lochearnhead to Callander line. are also fascinating as are some of the quirky traditional cottages in the area, like Briar Cottage.

Photogenic Objects: Discover and shoot the BLiSS trail of art installations starting with a giant steel thistle sculpture by Kev Paxton of ArtFe Blacksmiths, as well as the popular ornamental feature "Stan The Stag" in the loch garden. Briar Cottage has a thatched roof and stone walls that exhibit interesting colours and textures when hit with light or in snowy surroundings.

Wisteria in bloom

Blooming entrance to Briar Cottages

Seasonal Changes:
Each season in Lochearnhead brings unique photographic opportunities. Capture the vibrant wildflowers and fresh greens of spring, the lush, full foliage of summer, the stunning autumnal hues, and the serene, snow-dusted mountains of winter.

Stargazing:
A Journey Beyond the Stars. When the sun sets and the sky darkens, Lochearnhead transforms into a stargazer’s haven. Far from the intrusive glow of city lights, the night sky reveals its celestial wonders in all their glory. There are no street lights in front of Briar Cottages and the garden sculptures are on a timer to go off around 11pm. So apart from solar lights in the garden on strong sunny days, the stars, moon phases and auroras put light in to the sky.

Strong Thermal Emission Velocity Enhancement STEVE Taken from Briar Cottage.

Clear Night Skies: The absence of light pollution in Lochearnhead ensures that the stars shine bright. On clear nights, constellations like Orion and the Great Bear are easily visible, their stories waiting to be rediscovered under the twinkling firmament. Use a Sky Map app to help you identify stars and planets from your chosen cottage or in the garden on Loch Earn.

Milky Way Marvels: During certain times of the year, the Milky Way arcs across the sky, a spectacular sight that invites awe and contemplation. Capture long-exposure shots to reveal the galaxy’s ethereal beauty, with its millions of stars creating a celestial river of light. The best time to see the Milky Way in Scotland is February to October, usually between 00:00 and 5:00, and on nights with a new moon.

Meteor Showers: Lochearnhead is an ideal location to witness meteor showers. Events like the Perseids in August and the Geminids in December offer thrilling displays of shooting stars, making for unforgettable nights spent under the open sky.

Astrophotography: For those keen to delve into astrophotography, Lochearnhead provides the perfect setting. From capturing star trails to photographing distant planets and the moon, the clear, unpolluted skies are a dream come true for enthusiasts of all levels.

Tips for the Best Experience
Plan Ahead: Check the weather forecast and moon phases to ensure optimal conditions for both photography and stargazing. Clear skies and a new moon phase will enhance your experience. New Moon dates are mentioned on the right hand column of Briar Cottages price and availability chart.

Rocky foreshore and steps leading to a steel T shaped jetty with 4 white tyres for fenders. Looking east over Loch Earn on a patchy blue cloudy day reflected in the water. Briar Cottages Lochearnhead hpto by Dave Murray gifted to Briar Cottages owners

Briar Cottages with steel jetty -atmospheric Loch Earn. ,

Embrace the Serenity
Lochearnhead’s charm lies in its ability to transport you to a realm of peace and wonder. Whether you’re capturing the first light of dawn, the vibrant life of its forests and loch shores, or the infinite beauty of the night sky, this village promises moments of serenity and inspiration that will stay with you long after you’ve packed away your camera or telescope.

Aurora Viewing: Dancing Lights
One of the most magical experiences Lochearnhead has to offer is the chance to witness the Northern Lights, or Aurora Borealis. While sightings are not guaranteed, this village’s location makes it a prime spot for encountering this spectacular natural light show. Aurora Watch UK and other alerts can tip you off. The STEVE photo by Kim Proven, was taken with a Samsung Galaxy mobile phone in night mode, snapped from the front door of Briar Cottage.

Visit Lochearnhead and let its magical landscapes and skies ignite your passion for photography and stargazing. This enchanting destination awaits your discovery, inviting you to pause, look, and marvel at the beauty of our natural world.

Drone Photography Night Shots:
With a drone, you can capture breathtaking aerial views of the shimmering loch reflecting the moonlight, the gentle glow of the village lights, and the surrounding hills blanketed in darkness. Night-time drone photography allows you to explore creative compositions and experiment with long-exposure shots, capturing the movement of stars and the tranquil ambiance of Lochearnhead. It’s an opportunity to immortalize the beauty of Briar Cottages timelessley beautiful surroundings in a way that traditional photography might not fully convey. Day drone photography has its own merits enabling memories of Briar Cottages to be recorded in a single shot or film.

Drone shot from Loch Earn looking North over Briar Cottages. Boats moored, loch garden 3 cottages, garage, acre grass paddock behind and the forest and Achraw Hill to the rear.OATSes 3 acre groundsPicture

Drone shot from Loch Earn to Briar Cottages grounds by regular guest Billy

Gear Up: For photography, bring a tripod for stability, especially for low-light and night-time shots. For stargazing, a telescope or binoculars will enhance your view of distant celestial objects.

Stay Safe: Dress warmly, as nights can get chilly, and bring along a flashlight with a red filter to preserve your night vision while navigating in the dark. Drones are great however we would not recommend going in or on to the water after dark. Visit the Loch Lomond and Trossachs National Park safety code for Loch Earn for best advise

STEVE by Kim Proven, Lochearnhead

Enjoy and share your images.

Have fun capturing your experiences and images! We're always happy to share photos taken around Briar Cottages' grounds on Loch Earn, in any season, light, time, and direction—including up! You can share or tag us on X and Facebook @Briarcottages, Instagram @briarinfo, or enable us to use your images on social media. We also have a presence on YouTube @Stayatbriar1 and Pinterest @BriarCottages2.

There are fantastic sites on Facebook where images of Scotland are shared worldwide, such as "Scotland's Scenery". Whether you want to copyright your images, share them with family, friends, or the whole world, or save the magic moments and memories to look back at in future years, we wish all guests and future guests a happy, healthy, fun, safe, relaxing, memorable, and out-of-this-world experience.

Food and Drink 2: Mouth Watering Treats to Tempt You on Your Shopping Travels Around Loch Earn.

25/6/2022

Experience Unique Flavours Around Loch Earn #shoplocal

Whisky hot smoked salmon from The Falls of Dochart Smokery

Hot Whisky Smoked Salmon from The Falls of Dochart Smokery

When guests tell me that they will be buying local food and drink produce it is music to my ears. Yes, the local economy benefits however the quality of products on offer can add to a visitors emotional experience and their bond with the area.

Food and drink products make perfect gifts to take home. There is a wide choice with a good range of price options from shortbread and traditional sweeties to gin and whisky. We are proud to share information and links to quality retailers within an easy driving distance of Briar Cottages, including; locally smoked salmon, hand made cakes, cheeses, fruit and vegetables, chocolate, ice cream, roasted coffee, bread, seafood, distilled alcohol.

I talk a lot about the Falls of Dochart Smoked Salmon on social media. People must think that I am paid to promote it. On the contrary, it is the best that I have tasted and I am happy to invest in a regular supply switching between hot and cold whisky smoked salmon along with smoked cheddar and delicious smoked salmon pate. The Falls of Dochart Smokehouse team will even give you their recipe to make your own pate with.

Many guests who visit, thank us for pointing out the shop and tasting rooms in Killin. Sales and marketing manager Patrick Baines will look after you or one of his team if he is attending a farmers market. You might be lucky to be offered a sample of the pate on a blini in the smokery shop. In addition to salmon and smoked cheddar you can buy a range of quality goods made in Scotland, for example; Wild Hearth Bakery sourdough bread from Comrie, Perthshire Oatcakes, Perthshire Preserves, Summer Harvest Cold Pressed Linseed oil dressings, Chocolates by Iain Burnett - The Highland Chocolatier from Grantully.

Ploughman's Chutney with Cider by Perthshire Preserves

Take goodies back for a gourmet feast in your cottage or treat yourself to a breakfast or tasting plate for lunch. There is an option to include champagne if someone is happy to be the driver.

A great idea for a special celebration. The company operates a mail order service in the UK should you wish to purchase products after you return home or have a hamper delivered to loved ones at Christmas. In addition, discover The Falls of Dochart labelled whisky by Glenturret, gin, sloe gin and shortbread.

Whisky Smoked Cheddar - Falls of Dochart Smokehouse, Killin

A number of our returning guests will not leave the area without picking up MHOR bread's pies from Callander. Indulge in steak or steak and haggis and check out the fat sausage rolls. They offer a good range of rustic loafs and popular cakes. We have witnessed guests buying 6 different cakes in order to cut and share them as it is hard to make your mind up from the selection. There are often queues due to the shop's popularity, however this gives you time to stare at the cabinet of cakes and pies on display and narrow down your choices. MHOR shortbread fingers are delicious and make a nice little gift from the area.

Campbells Shortbread made in Callander

Callander also boasts Campbells Bakery established in 1830, now run by the 7th generation of the family in its 192 year. Not many small businesses have survived this length of time. Look out for Campbells pure butter shortbread in shops and on-line or visit the bakery shops in Comrie and Crieff for a range of freshly baked products. Their wheat rolls offer a distinct flavour and the occasional strawberry tart surely does more good in emotional pleasure or feelings of nostalgia, than harm.

Fall of Dochart Gin made with Tayberries

Gin made from Tayberries

Dr Osbourne's Scottish Dry Gin by Tom and Lisa Lewis of the MHOR group of businesses

Whisky and Gin lovers will not be disappointed by the choice of unique products in the area. Try Dr Osbournes number 46 or 99 Scottish Dry Gin, created by Tom and Lisa Lewis of the local MHOR brand businesses. This is available to buy in the MHOR In Store shop at the Balquhidder turn off from the A84 and is part of the gin collective where you can discover hundreds of other Scottish gins on one site.

Falls of Dochart whisky and gin make a lovely gift from Killin. The unique label depicting The Falls of Dochart is from a watercolour by Scottish artist Daniel Campbell. We happen to have one of his prints on display that is often admired by guests in Briar Steading Cottage. The gin is made using Tayberries - a cross between a raspberry and bramble (blackberry). They grow along The River Tay.

McQueen gin has been a success story offering award winning flavoured gins from a distillery and visitor centre just outside Callander. I have recently learned that the distillery is closed permanently and administrators have been appointed. That is sad news for the area and we hope it is not the end of the road for the brand. You can still purchase some of their products from on-line stockists. The last one that we bought was blue in colour changing to pink when tonic was added. A recent guest of Little Briar Cottage had a bottle of her favourite McQueen blackcurrant and raspberry on her shopping list. We pointed her to on-line sources and a bottle was waiting for her when she returned home.

The Grail in Callander - is a boutique craft drinks shop where they specialise in single malts. Check the website for tasting events too.

Nearby whisky distilleries include Deanston near Doune and Scotland's oldest working distillery Glenturret on the way to Crieff. For an extensive selection of national and international whiskys and gins visit The Green Welly Stop in Tyndrum. Non drivers will be welcome to sample a few before they buy with expert advice from the knowledgeable team at the counter.

And beer? Vist the Lade Inn shop at Kilmahog off the A84. Find it at the Kilmahog turn off before you reach Callander if driving from the Lochearnhead direction. You will discover a treasure trove of over 180 Scottish real ales for sale. Fraser calls it the "sweetie shop".

Deli's and farmers markets are a great way to discover the best of local and Scottish produce. Check out Hansons Kitchen in Comrie and The Crieff Food company in Crieff High Street. Also The Farm Shop at Comrie Croft. Look out for Perth and Stirling Farmers market dates with links from our website and there is a Forth Valley Food Trail Map if you fancy a foodie day out.

There are some unique chocolatiers in Perthshire like Charlotte Flowers and Iain Burnett the Highland Chocolatier in Grandtully. Check them out if you are on a day trip or look for them in Deli's and food markets. I love to choose from the glass display selection at Gordon and Durwoods confectionary shop in Crieff. Ask for a box to be filled with your preferred selection of chocolates from the counter. This is better value than buying the pre packed boxes though they do look pretty if you want to buy a special gift. Have a look at their Scottish sweets selection too like their fudge and tablet.

Scottish roasted coffee anyone? The Glen Lyon coffee roasters set up in 2011. Their stands are popluar at food markets. You can sniff them out a few stalls away. They eventually moved their roasting base in Glen Lyon to Aberfeldy where they also have a shop and cafe offering coffee, pastries, and coffee beans.

Strathearn Cheese Co. is an award winning Scottish cheese making business based in the old WWII prisoner of war camp at Cultybraggan near Comrie. Worth a trip to see the base alone. They create artisan cheeses using local milk supplies and flavours. "The Strathearn" e.g. is matured for 4 weeks and washed in a Glenturret single malt whisky flavoured brine. You will find their cheeses on quality local restaurant menus too.

To accompany your cheeses? The authentic flavours and textures of award winning Perthshire Oatcakes based on a farm in Crieff. They claim to use ".the only brand of oatmeal guaranteed to be 100% Scottish from seed to mill to finished product"

The Wild Hearth Bakery is also based at Cultybraggan. They bake wholesome rustic loafs including sour dough options. Try their fig and walnut sourdough round. Yum!

Look out for award winning Scottish Jam and preserve makers Perthshire Preserves. They are based in Callander with a mail order service. Try a selection from the tempting choice. Hot banana chutney? Orange whisky marmalade? Another local and unique "made in Scotland" gift option.

Watermelon from The Handy Shop Crieff and Comrie

If you prefer fresh and organic seasonal fruit and veg then visit the Handy Shop in Crieff and Comrie as well as the Blair Drummond Smiddy Farm shop and the Crieff Food Co. We have a seasonal fruit and veg box delivered weekly by The Handy Shop. I love "dirty carrots". They last much longer than the pre washed options. They also taste better and have a richer colour. I enjoy not knowing what will be in the seasonal box, though you can also select and order what ever you like with add on products for sale like fresh eggs.

Cold whisky smoked salmon by The Falls of Dochart Smokehouse

Ttrout caught in Loch Earn at Briar Cottages

Trout caught in Loch Earn from Briar Cottages garden

I have already mentioned The Falls of Dochart Whisky Smoked salmon, however, if you are looking for the "Finest fish and shellfish selection in Perthshire", then visit the Crieff Fish shop counter in the High Street. Their fish specialists are happy to advise on the range of produce and their delivered daily specials. Message or follow them on Facebook for counter updates whether you are a haddock and kipper fan or are looking for alternatives like monkfish. scallops, sea bream, lemon or British caught sole.

There is also the option to catch your own fresh trout either from Briar Cottages garden on Loch Earn when staying between 15th March and 6th October or via Drummond Estates Trout Farm

For butcher meat visit David Comrie and Son in Comrie, est 1835, Gourlay butcher in Crieff, D Campbell and Son Callander - butchers since 1949 and the The Smiddy Butcher shop near Blair Drummond with fresh meat selections from 5 local farms.

Inverlochlaraig Venison is the place to go for a range of cuts whether you prefer a haunch, sirloin, medalions, mince, sausages or other options. You can buy a box and have it shipped to your door. If you are visiting the Braes of Balquhidder pop in to the farm shop. Turn off the A84 past MHOR84, following the road to Balquhidder and travel straight on past Monachyle Mhor. Enjoy the scenic trip in the car past loch's Voil and Doine or hire an ebike from Roll Outdoors next to Mhor 84 if you are very fit.

Thistle sculpture by Kev Paxton, Briar Cottages, Loch Earn, Scotland

Sculpture by Kev Paxton in Briar Cottages garden, Loch Earn

We understand value pricing and budgeting when shopping. It may be convenient to have supermarket deliveries to your cottage ahead of your arrival, from Tesco, Sainsburys, Asda and the local Co-op. Especially for bulky items. We are also lucky to have nearby village shops and a community co-op open in Killin 7 days a week until 10pm.

Sadly our own village shop is closed and will not re-open following the ill health of popular owner Owen who has served our community for decades. We don't know the future of the building however we wish Owen the best recovery and happiness in retirement as do many of our regular guests. Strathyre Village Shop and Post Office, St Fillans Village shop and Killin Co-op are all within a 7 mile trip going south, east and north from Briar Cottages.

Spare a thought for the small shops and delis. They put their hearts and lives into producing quality unique produce. Self catering gives you the option to mix and match shopping and treat yourselves or your loved ones back home.

Enjoy exploring and tasting your way around our unique area of rural Scotland.

Visit our website page Eat, Drink, Places and Produce around Loch Earn for links to local food producers, retailers and farmers markets as well as area restaurants that were covered in my previous blog.

Slàinte Mhath! (Your good health)

Food 1: Briar Cottages "Where to Eat" Guide around Loch Earn #EatLocal

15/3/2022

Mhor Cakes

Visitors Who Eat and Shop Locally Help Village Economy

MHOR bread

The trouble with writing about food around Lochearnhead and beyond is drooling on to my computer as I type.

No shop bought biscuit in the cupboard will substitute for the local home made cake and tray bake flavours in cafe's, unless from a packet of MHOR Bread's shortbread of course but more about local produce in my next blog. We are talking cafes, restaurants AND take-aways here. #EatLocally

Self Catering gives you freedom of choice to eat in or out. Consider our local choices of cafes, table d'hote and food connoisseur restaurants plus take-away menus. Guests often ask us to recommend eateries so I tell Fraser that he has a duty to take me out to eat often, whether new establishments or staying up to date with the evolving local menus within a 20 mile radius and beyond.

So, lets start locally. The closest pub food is the Clachan Cottage Hotel ably managed by Rhoda and her team. In Scotland there has been a shortage of chefs, especially in rural places. "The Clachan" has had its challenges though they still manage to turn out comfort food favourites like burgers, steak pie and fish and chips with a changing specials board to add variety and vegetarian options. The latest news is that they have 3 new chefs lined up. Hooray! Grab a coffee or light lunch after using the water sports hire services in the same building. Top tip! The Loch Earn Wakeschool shop underneath the hotel, also sells delicious take-away coffee and ice lollies in summer. The hotel is only 150 metres from the garden gates, so no driving if you are able. #eatlocal #sustainabletourism. NB - A pet friendly hotel.

Then there is the short romantic lochside stroll home. Take one of the cottage torches in winter if the moon is hidden as there are no street lights this end. Trust me it is pitch black. We like it that way. If we wanted street lights we could have moved to most other areas. You see cars coming easily in the dark due to head lights...even if they are electric and silent. Dark skies are great for star gazing. The lit Briar Cottages sign does help to guide you back as does Blawn Wi The Wind sculpture, up and until around 11pm.

Fraser behind thistle sculpture lit at night on Loch Earn

6ft 4 Fraser behind our garden thistle sculpture Blawn Wi The Wind, by Kev Paxton

The same applies when walking home from The Lochearnhead Hotel which is only 50 metres further on. Chef owner Robert Kerr knows how to present tasty food. Choose the bar meal or sit in the restaurant with its white table clothes and fabulous views over Loch Earn. Amanda Kerr is an amazing multi tasker with an infectious laugh who takes care of guests front of house. Favourites often shared by our guests include venison pie and beer batter fish and chips with the freshest salad and a warm baked roll with butter. Do your best to select one pudding from the delicious and well presented options too. Also consult the seasonal specials board.

Guests that eat out often like change and variety. Discover The Golden Larches near the turn off to Balquhidder. A good value menu with a restaurant in the conservatory on the A84. They also offer breakfast, snacks and a takeaway menu.

Scallops dish at MHOR84

Mhor84 is at the Balquhidder turn off further south on the A84, signposted for Rob Roy's Grave. Chef owner Tom Lewis and family created this quirky motel that serves all day food.

Try their home brew ale. The home made soups never disappoint. Fresh ingredients are used to make tasty variations of home cooked favourites whether you opt for breakfast, macaroni cheese for lunch or seasonal specials like locally sourced pork or langoustines. They are also known for their gourmet burgers. Try the thick cut slices of beef with seasonal root veg and the "MHOR..kshire" puddings for Sunday lunch. Scrummy cakes come from their MHOR Bread bakery in Callander. Some people are fans of the giant merinques, chocolate brownies and various tarts. I can never see past the chocolate and hazlenut flapjacks. I am usually the driver so I appreciate their elderflower press bubbly to drink too. No matching chairs, tables or crockery here, which adds to the fun and charm. Interesting objects and pictures are displayed against white washed walls and sanded floors. Eat in or out on the deck on dry days.

If you are a foodie and know your fine dining follow the road to Balquhidder, past Rob Roy MacGregor's burial ground at Balquhidder Kirk all the way up to Monachyle Mhor boutique hotel. This is also owned and run by the Lewis family. Stop for coffee or book in for a fine dining experience. A few famous people have dined here. We hate to name drop but are happy to whisper names when you stay at Briar Cottages:). The food is delicious offering fine views of the Braes O' Balquhidder. Stay by the fire in winter or listen to the birds and sheep bleating alfresco. Look out for special food events there and art installations on the BLiSS trail.

Strathyre village has a popular award winning cafe called the Broch Cafe. It has become so popular, with limited indoor seating and extensive outdoor seating that it has now opened up the Broch n Roll stop on site, for takeaways. If you have time, try the soups, breakfast rolls, paninis and cakes. They serve Luccaffe coffee here which is delicious if you are a "good coffee" fan. If you don't have time... grab a roll and take-away beverage instead. In the cafe you will find genuine home baked cakes. No ready made scone mix in sight. They are truly crafted by hand. I do like a tuna melt panini followed by the Malteser tray bake myself. I am not ashamed to say that I have also tried the scones, flapjacks and carrot cake... all in the interest of tourism research of course. You can also have a game of Petanque at The Broch cafe which is fun! Simply ask to use the equipment. The cafe is conveniently situated between the A84 and National Cycle route 7.

Smoked Slmon and lemon wedges at the Falls of Dochart Smokehouse

Falls of Dochart Smoked Salmon

In Killin you will find The Falls of Dochart Inn. A traditional inn with candlelit stone walls. A lovely atmosphere inside. Sit by the fire in winter or outside overlooking the falls in summer. Discover Falls of Dochart smoked salmon either by ordering a dish here or go to the rear of the car park where you will find the smokehouse. Treat yourself to a plate of salmon treats at the tasting counter in the smokehouse building or in one of the outdoor bubble pods. Their pate on a blini with a squirt of lemon is a heavenly mouth teaser.

Also in Killin, you will find the Courie Inn, The Capercaillie and The Killin Hotel. Fraser claims that he had over 20 pieces of scampi at The Capercaillie once and all of our guests now count and compare when ordering. They are famed for generous portions. Check out the menus at the Ardeonaig Hotel, tucked away on the road that goes around the back of the Falls of Dochart. Follow the south Loch Tay road through forest for about 8 miles.

Falls of Dochart in Autumn

St Fillans east Loch Earn offers The Achray Hotel where Laura Muirhead and her team will look after you. Enjoy loch views and a choice of menus including for example the Fish and Chips pictured below or an a la carte menu of culinary experiences by head Chef David Racz. Sit on the deck for a drink in fair weather and visit the loch garden.

Susan Stuart runs the Four Seasons Hotel where pets are more than welcome. In fact Finn the dog is often on reception to greet you! They are currently offering light refreshments in the snug bar.

There is also a cafe with a takeaway kitchen inside the Strathyre village shop where you may meet locals having a "blether" and a cup.

Achray House Fish and Chips

Hidden at the east end of Loch Earn is the St Fillans Golf Club. The club house is lucky to have Julie and her team from Nutricious and Delicious on catering, promoting ever changing specials. Members will be happy to welcome visitors looking for breakfast rolls, cakes and lunches. Also, try the Sunday lunches and early dinners as advertised. An informal setting overlooking the impeccable golf club grounds.

Baking in St Fillans Golf Club by Nutricious and Delicious

Moving further east Comrie and Crieff have their fair share of wee gems to eat in. The Deil's Cauldron specialises in Mediterranean and Scottish Cuisine. Husband and wife team Katy and Brian will look after you. Choose a fixed lunch menu or a la carte in the cottage style restaurant with stone walls. Sunday lunches are delicious and in an intimate setting that almost feels like someones home dining room.

The Royal Hotel is a luxury boutique Hotel with charm, offering locally sourced produce and sound cooking techniques putting a modern twist on classic dishes. We love to sit in The Garden Room with its roof light or by the fire reading the papers and magazines in winter with a coffee and a dram or pint (I am on the coffee of course :).

If you enjoy Indian food you will love the Ghurkas Indian and Nepalese dishes, whether sitting in or to take away. Don't be put off by the small, clean, basic table set up. The food is delicious.

The family run Meadow Inn is exceptionally good value for pub grub. Well presented food favourites with a family friendly service.

Pop in to Cafe Rhubarb on Crieff High St with its large corner window so that you can watch what is going on in the street. Laura and Martijn attract many locals and repeat visitors who love their cakes, crepes, waffles, friendly chat and service.

Keep an eye on The Steading Cafe owned and run by Gourlays -Crieff's high Street butcher and events organiser. Pop in for coffee, soup, rolls and sandwiches though monitor facebook for their fixed evening meal nights like "Steak Night" or BBQ.

Delicious spiced parsnip soup at The Pottiing Shed Bistro

Sandwich with fresh salad and root veg crisps -The Potting Shed Bistro

In Callander we recommend The Potting Shed Bistro within the Roman Camp Hotel grounds. A simple menu for lunch or dinner in a delightful historic setting. Candle lit at night with easy listening music in the back ground. A cheerful and attentive young service team too. Visit the walled gardens and listen to the peacocks after your meal. Ample parking off road and a short walk down to the river. Pop in for tea or coffee and a double fruit and plain scone.

Another popular cafe is Deli Ecosse in Callander. They also offer Gluten and Dairy free options.

In additon to take-aways already mentioned Lutis woodfired pizza and pasta parlour goes down very well with fans. Callander is 14 miles away but dont worry about the food getting cold....you will probably devour it long before you get back to the cottage as the wafting woodfired smell will tease you!

A little further afield, don't go past The Smiddy at Blair Drummond or The Buttercup Cafe in Doune. Both excellent choices for breakfast or lunches and afternoon cakes.

I could go on and on with recommendations. If this lot does not work for you I can recommend more places and further afield. See our website eating out guide too. Better get the dinner on now. Having smoked haddock (finnan haddie) from the Crieff Fish shop. Will tell you more about their choice of fish and seafood plus other local produce next time. Happy noshing. Enjoy our local scran.

FOOD 2: Local Produce blog coming soon #shoplocal

Scones and Jam , The Four Seasons Hotel, St Fillans

Scones and Jam at The Four Seasons St Fillans

Little Briar Doggy Deck and New Kitchen plus Eternal Laughter at Briar Cottages on Loch Earn

4/12/2020

Prosecco celebrating new Kitchen at Little BriarPicture

Cheers to Little Briar's new kitchen, patio and other recent additions

Doggy Patio: So, Fraser and I had one of our regular "continuous improvement" board meetings during lock down. Our ambitious action plan included a new patio, kitchen, plus other fixtures and fittings at Little Briar pet friendly cottage.

Pet patio and gates with awning at Little Briar Cottage

Pet patio with secure fence, gates and awning at Little Briar

New gated patio with secure fence and lighting

Little Briar Cottage lounge Lochearnhead

Upgraded lounge furniture and curtains

The results? Stone paving has replaced the old slippy wooden deck for starters.

As much as Fraser loves a project, we decided to enlist the help and expertise of Thistle Landscapes to achieve this.

Fraser and I set to work lifting the old timbers which we managed to recycle locally in October 2022

The paving, fence building, gate construction and framework for the poly-carbonate awning, was left to Gareth. The awning provides partial shelter, leaving the other half of the patio exposed for fair weather days in Lochearnhead.

A table and four chairs with cushions, 2 dog bowls and toys completed the outdoor patio area. A new barbecue in the extended garden, outside the secure gate, sits near the chiminea and other garden furniture.

Moving inside, we lifted the old laminate flooring, then employed Bennan Flooring from Crieff, to replace the lounge carpet and fit a non slip vinyl covering in the kitchen dining area.

The sofa and leather chair were also upgraded. A new cabinet was built (by yours truly) to hold the TV and house leaflets and DVDs. I would love to claim the skills of a cabinet maker, however I simply have the patience to follow DIY instructions.

Curtains were replaced throughout. Night light torches were added to the bedrooms and a new fire blanket replaced the old one. This phase was completed in March 2021

Kitchen to Lounge

New Kitchen: Our next job was to rip out the old kitchen in November 2021 and smash the tiles off leaving a blank canvas to work on.

We employed the skills of a local joiner and electrician who set to and built our new shiny kitchen with modern appliances.

We added a mini dishwasher. The old under counter fridge is now replaced by a full 50:50 integrated fridge freezer. The built-under Hotpoint double oven has a digital ceramic hob on top and a cooker hood that extracts steam and odours to the outside. The original wee microwave on a shelf was exchanged for an integrated version.

The old ceiling fan and lights are superseded by a modern chrome bar with 4 LED spotlights. New tiles and under counter lighting complete the look.

We ensured that modern linked heat and smoke alarms were added ahead of the Scottish Government's new law and deadline for all properties by February 2022. Our Fire Risk Assessment has been updated and a new fire blanket is in situ. The Guest Quick Guide has been amended too, so we are good to go, safely. January 29th 2022

Microwave reflects Edinample and Loch Earn

Spot Edinample Castle and Loch Earn in the microwave reflection

New kitchen and appliances

Eternal Laughter: Oh, and look out for the laughing Buddha on the way up the short driveway to the cottages. Fraser's idea not mine! He is growing on me - the Buddha that is :) - and guests are reporting that he brings a smile to their day.

Apparently if you rub his tummy - still talking about laughing Buddha not Fraser - , he will bring you good luck, happiness and prosperity.

Worth a shot in these strange times don't you think?

Please get in touch if you would like to book any dates left at Little Briar Cottage in 2022. Little Briar sleeps 3 guests and 1-2 pets.
Who will be the first to experience the new kitchen? Valentine's week is currently available - see www.stayatbriar.co.uk/little-briar-pets.html

#YS2022 Year of Stories 2022 #TalesOfScotland

Laughing Buddha welcomes you on arrival

Briar Cottages -A Busman's Holiday - Rest, Reflect, Reset

4/6/2020

Pieris in bloom outside Briar Cottage

We are both keeping well and hope that you are too. No-one saw this virus coming in spite of claims that it was inevitable!

Sunrise on Loch Earn from the slipway

Amidst all of the pain and suffering there has to be hope. For some of us - not in the front line - our contribution has been to stay at home, out of harms way and to carry on with some kind of routine, preparing for the future, as best we can.

We look out for each other as neighbours in a great community here in Lochearnhead and the surrounding villages. Our community newspaper The Villagers has even adapted to an on-line version to keep us all in touch. We have been maintaining and improving the grounds and cottages and I have been updating our local tourism group LETi, on national tourism information as it unfolds. So, it's a busman's holiday for us this year, with no complaints.

Easter cake and coffee at Briar Steading

Easter cake and coffee in National Trust thistle mugs

We are so grateful for local refuse collection and shopping deliveries. We currently enjoy vans delivering fish, meat, bakery, fruit and veg. Gourlay and David Comrie butchers, The Handy Shop and Fish in Crieff. We can order whisky smoked salmon and cheese from The Falls of Dochart Smokehouse in Killin and other deli products there like Glen Lyon coffee and sour dough bread from Wild Heart bakery in Comrie. In addition, supermarkets plus wine and spirit merchants will deliver. I hope that deliveries of exceptional local fresh produce will continue to be an option for our holiday guests after lock down.

Lewis lamb on a golden sunset over Loch Earn

Lewis the lamb, Golden sunset Loch Earn

Loch Earn's Achray House Hotel, has been offering a free and subsidised delivery service of hot meals for vulnerable locals with regular takeaway menus for others within a radius of about 6 local villages. The takeaway and delivery service will be offered to local self catering guests after lockdown and before hotel restaurants are fully open again.

We are appreciative of tourism associations like Visit Scotland, The Association of Self Catering Scotland, the Scottish Tourism Alliance and others like the Federation of Small Businesses, who have been working non stop to support our industry on employment and financial assistance guidelines. They are constantly in touch with the Scottish government, lobbying and sharing, ensuring that there will be a national approach to recovery, with cleaning protocols and other guidance. Visit Scotland has helped by promoting and encouraging image sharing on social media and by informing the world about Scotland's rich experiences. Holidays to consider in safer times. Absence makes the heart grow fonder..

poppies popping

Bright pink rhododendron bush, Briar Cottage Loch Earnicture

vibrant rhododendrons

Wonderful wisteria

poppies

native bluebells at Briar Cottage at Loch Earn

bluebell season

new acer trees planted on the hill garden

new acer tree on the hill

We are missing guest stories, personalities and pets as each garden plant has bloomed and faded over the last 10 weeks. While we are delighted that the weather has enabled so much time out of doors, we are sorry that guests have missed out on one of the most consistent periods of weather in Lochearnhead for decades. At least everyone has had good weather in the UK

We know that we are fortunate to live in a naturally beautiful landscape. This is the first time since opening in 2008 that we have taken the time to enjoy our grounds together for weeks on end. I feel as though a pause button has been pushed on life. A good time to rest, reflect and reset.

banana loaf using Mary Berry recipe

Norman's View

Upgrading at Norman's View

Kim Proven birthday drinks at Norman's View of Loch Earn

Birthday toast

There have been some novelty moments for me like scone and banana bread baking plus his and hers hair cut creations.

I enjoyed my birthday in May in spite of not seeing family and friends. I made my own coffee and walnut cake (good effort but not a patch on my mum's). Fraser had us putting on the lawn ( he beat me with 2 holes in one, though revenge has been taken recently) We popped fizz up at our recently landscaped Norman's View by the stream and ordered a takeaway 3 course dinner from the Achray House Hotel in St Fillans. Fraser set the table up outside Briar Steading to ensure a great view over Loch Earn to the hills. He placed garden cut flowers on the table and played Ella Fitzgerald ballads on YouTube, courtesy of his mobile phone and the cottage WiFi. Family presents arrived in the post including a decadent double layer Signature Collection of Cocoa Mountain chocolates that are made in Scotland. What a treat. Glad there were 2 tiers. One each! I also received a delicious selection of Arran Cheeses, Perthshire oatcakes and Scottish chutneys amongst other gifts. A memorable foodie birthday and a party for 2.

Outdoor furniture black and white makeover at Briar Steadingicture

Furniture makeover

Lions and bench repainted at Briar Steading

Paint upgrade

Osprey

We've been busy painting outdoor furniture, landscaping the stream that runs the length of the garden, trimming hedges and more.

Our Nature Watch Loch Earn events had to be cancelled. They were due to take place in March and July with local experts from Aquila Ecology in St Fillans. This was to be our contribution to Year of Coasts and Waters 2020 with Visit Scotland badges and hand out bags at the ready. We hope to offer this some time in the future and who knows, the September event might still be on the cards.

In the mean time we have been surrounded by regular garden birds and birdsong including a woodpecker and cuckoo, 24 Canadian goslings and 4 ducklings! The ospreys are practically a daily sight fishing for trout.

Ducklings

Fraser cutting the grass for putting, Loch Earn

Fraser cutting the putting green

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Self catering should be one of the safer options for holiday accommodation after lockdown if we are vigilant and guests are careful. Lochearnhead and local villagers have remained locked own and trouble free from the beginning, so we can understand why they want the area to remain safe. We don't know what the protocols will be. Maybe use of masks in shops will be prudent to make locals and guests feel safer when outside of Briar Cottages three acre gardens.

Regular guests know how clean our cottages are. Liquid hand and washing soaps have always been included at Briar Cottages along with a range of cleaning materials to assist. Countless articles explain why soap is best for Covid 19. Nevertheless, we will check everything against the national cleaning protocols once they are approved by the Scottish government and shared to enable consistent national health and safety standards.

We have accepted people hopping over our garden fence to photograph Stan the Stag and our BLiSS trail thistle sculptures even though they are visible from the roadside. This will have to change now. The time has come to put up "Guest Only" signs so that the loch garden space remains exclusive to cottage guests, our family and friends. Some minor changes like this will be sensible and necessary.

Rear grass cut in lines as seen from Briar Cottages entrance, Lochearnhead

Rear lawn freshly cut,

We don't know when we will be open again, however we will follow guidelines and think everything through. We are honouring all guest holidays that were booked direct with us and that were cancelled by the government from 23rd March, whether this year or next year. No one is at fault. We did not cancel guests and they did not cancel their holidays.

I am disappointed to hear so many tales of insurance companies that have not helped guests or businesses though. I would still encourage people to take out insurance for any travel ( even home travel) though wonder if they will still choose to make Covid 19 and any new unknown epidemics exempt in future. A regular guest made a claim to recover loss of their holiday around Easter. It took weeks for them to get a response. It was like jumping through ridiculous hoops. They were rejected but asked to produce even more information if they persisted, with no guarantee of any assistance. How unhelpful. I suggested to the guest that they should not waste further precious time. We immediately guaranteed to re-book their holiday for the same time next year and are flexible if they want to change the date once we know that we can start up again. And there will be no price increase if it turns out to be next year. So, we lose half the value of the booking while still paying to maintain the cottage. That is so much better than losing valued guests and does not begin to compare with what many people have lost during this epidemic.

We look forward to welcoming many guests back and meeting new people in the future. We just don't know when...yet. Phase 3...ish. Whatever that actually means. So, in the mean time we will continue to make the most of our time together on this safe busman's holiday, while our hearts go out to key workers and those that have suffered pain and loss and our very best wishes go to guests past and future.

Rainbow on Loch Earn from Briar Cottages

Continuous Improvement at Briar Cottages, Lochearnhead on Loch Earn

20/6/2015

So, what was under wraps in the last blog photo? Did you guess?

Fraser Proven , Top of the hill Briar Cottages

Fraser admires his handy work

Fraser's hill project

A simple bench courtesy of Mr P. The seat enables you to catch your breath at the top ,especially if you find the garden hill challenging at Briar Cottages looking over Loch Earn. More importantly when you turn around and see the view you will want to sit and admire it.

Full time job cutting and strimming

Read at Briar Steading

Guest Danny Ward made it all the way up, at 81 years old. Guest dogs adore the run around space.

Behind the fence is the old railway walkway that leads back to the village. Brambles grow here in autumn and sloe trees bear fruit, right of the picture, in winter. Crumbles and sloe gin go down well in winter months however we are looking forward to summer veg, strawberries. apples, gooseberries, cherries and blackcurrants first. Guests are welcome to pick anything that grows at Briar Cottages to enjoy with their lunch or dinner. We have a fantastic rosemary bush at the foot of the driveway to the cottages too.

There are a few cook books in Briar Steading, including "The Reluctant Cook" by local authoress Libby Ransom,written in the name of her grandmother, E. Bentinck. Libby's husband John Ransom has written numerous books on transport and local history including our local railway heritage. Copies are available to purchase at SULA furnishing shop at , The Tryst, Balquhidder net door to MHOR 84 motel. Drive 2.5 miles or go by bike along cycle route 7 Lochearnhead to Strathyre.

Danny admires Fraser's bench and the view from the top

View Loch Earn from top of Briar Cottages

How's that for a view over Briar Cottages and Loch Earn

All in a days work for Fraser. Since the bench he has varnished the garden furniture, erected an international flag on one poll and the Scottish Saltire on the other, created a vegetable border, made hanging flower baskets, trimmed back the wisteria from our thatched roof, cut and rolled the various lawns and so much more.

If you want to come and see for yourself, visit www.stayatbriar.co.uk in the first instance, email [email protected] or call Kim and Fraser 01567 830 443 to book.

NB £50 local restaurant gift voucher choice when you book any short break that is left in Briar Steading our luxury cottage. QUOTE: Briar50 July offer.

Website Makeover for Briar Cottages Luxury and Pet Friendly Cottages Lochearnhead

1/5/2015

Maisy enjoying the garden on Loch Earn

Welcome to our new look website. What do you think? Please use the social media tabs above to tell us. You will find them at the top right of every page. Please let us know what you think on Twitter ,Google+ Facebook and other sites that you use.

We've added a page about us. We are now mobile friendly so you should be able to view this site easily on tablets and mobiles. You will also see my Twitter updates and your TripAdvisor guest reviews on the home page in the right hand column. If we are not already social media friends please follow us on Twitter @Briarcottages and RT any pages of interest or become a fan on our Briar Cottages Facebook Page.

Thank you to all guests who let me take pictures of their pets for the Little Briar Cottage Page. I look forward to taking more pictures this summer and seeing some of yours.

Both cottages are booking fast this year however there are still summer gaps for weekly holidays and short breaks on Loch Earn, so please get in touch if you are planning some time off. We are entirely flexible on your start day of the week and our minimum price is based on 3 nights. Get in touch about this year and 2016 and NB New Year is already booked at Briar Steading.

We are always grateful for input and feedback so if you see anything that needs amending on this website please don't be shy in telling us.

Capture the Magic: Lochscape Photography and Stargazing, Briar Cottages in Lochearnhead on Loch Earn

Food and Drink 2: Mouth Watering Treats to Tempt You on Your Shopping Travels Around Loch Earn.

Experience Unique Flavours Around Loch Earn #shoplocal

Food 1: Briar Cottages "Where to Eat" Guide around Loch Earn #EatLocal

Visitors Who Eat and Shop Locally Help Village Economy

Little Briar Doggy Deck and New Kitchen plus Eternal Laughter at Briar Cottages on Loch Earn

Briar Cottages -A Busman's Holiday - Rest, Reflect, Reset

Continuous Improvement at Briar Cottages, Lochearnhead on Loch Earn

Website Makeover for Briar Cottages Luxury and Pet Friendly Cottages Lochearnhead

Author Kim Proven.

Archives

Categories

Briar Cottages,
Lochearnhead, Perthshire, Scotland, FK19 8PU Tel: 01567 830 443 Mob: 07917 416 497
website: www.stayatbriar.co.uk email: [email protected] Short Term Let Licence Numbers ST00072F and ST00073F

Capture the Magic: Lochscape Photography and Stargazing, Briar Cottages in Lochearnhead on Loch Earn

Food and Drink 2: Mouth Watering Treats to Tempt You on Your Shopping Travels Around Loch Earn.

​Experience Unique Flavours Around Loch Earn #shoplocal

Food 1: Briar Cottages "Where to Eat" Guide around Loch Earn #EatLocal

Visitors Who Eat and Shop Locally Help Village Economy

Little Briar Doggy Deck and New Kitchen plus Eternal Laughter at Briar Cottages on Loch Earn

Briar Cottages -A Busman's Holiday - Rest, Reflect, Reset

Continuous Improvement at Briar Cottages, Lochearnhead on Loch Earn

Website Makeover for Briar Cottages Luxury and Pet Friendly Cottages Lochearnhead

Author Kim Proven.

Archives

Categories

Briar Cottages, Lochearnhead, Perthshire, Scotland, FK19 8PU Tel: 01567 830 443 Mob: 07917 416 497website: www.stayatbriar.co.uk email: [email protected] Short Term Let Licence Numbers ST00072F and ST00073F

Experience Unique Flavours Around Loch Earn #shoplocal

Briar Cottages,
Lochearnhead, Perthshire, Scotland, FK19 8PU Tel: 01567 830 443 Mob: 07917 416 497
website: www.stayatbriar.co.uk email: [email protected] Short Term Let Licence Numbers ST00072F and ST00073F