A Highland Games fling!

I was invited as a guest to the Crieff Highland Games in August 2018 by one of the elderly patrons, so I thought I would make a family weekend of it, why not?

I stumbled across the perfect little dog-friendly cottage in nearby Comrie, a 15-minute drive from Crieff. At once I felt the Scottish welcome I've grown to love with the best complementary tea-tray awaiting our arrival! Caroch Cottage had won me over with a bottle of red wine and a Battenberg!

A cosy living room, stylish shower room, a twin and a double bedroom on the first floor and kitchen/diner downstairs with bread, milk and ice lollies for the kids set us up nicely for our long weekend.

We enjoyed lovely walks down by the river with some picturesque views, stunning properties, and just the right mix of small hotels, local cafes and shops and tourist gift shops to ensure my escape from busy life was well and truly felt and batteries recharged.

The location of the cottage was perfect for parking (a free car park just steps away) and rather too handy for the village fish and chip shop next door. Fried mars bars really do exist... and this was the first time I had ever seen fried pizza on a menu too!

My highlight of the weekend was the Highland Games! Starting with the 'kilt race' through Crieff high street, then the majestic sound of marching pipe bands from all over the world. The high street is cordoned off as the streets are lined with locals and tourists alike listening to the authentic traditional sounds of the big drums and bag pipes! Magical!

The Games are held annually in August with all sorts of competitive races for all age groups and abilities. There are also Scottish dancing competitions, the famous tug-of-war and of course the traditional caber tossing! A fun-fair for the children in the surrounding showground compliments local trade stalls, live music and bar tents. All in all, a great day out for all the family, well organised, and much fun. Crieff & Comrie.... I will be back!

Top tips:

1. Buy your Highland Games ticket in advance for a reduction. 2. Caroch Cottage can be booked through me, via Hoseasons UK holidays. 3. Go prepared for all weathers, it could be sunny in the morning but raining by the afternoon!