Pass of Killiecrankie Guide
Pass of Killiecrankie: Where History and Nature Collide Guide
The Pass of Killiecrankie is a dramatic gorge carved by the River Garry, offering breathtaking scenery and a rich tapestry of history. This narrow defile, with its towering cliffs and rushing waters, is a must-see for anyone visiting the Scottish Highlands. More than just a pretty picture, the Pass of Killiecrankie is steeped in history, most notably as the site of a pivotal Jacobite battle. Prepare to be awestruck by the natural beauty and moved by the echoes of the past. The Pass of Killiecrankie is most famous for the Battle of Killiecrankie, fought in 1689. This bloody encounter saw Jacobite forces, loyal to King James VII, clash with government troops. The Jacobites, led by John Graham of Claverhouse, Viscount Dundee (known as "Bonnie Dundee"), achieved a stunning victory. However, Dundee himself was killed in the battle, a loss that ultimately proved fatal to the Jacobite cause. The "Soldier's Leap," where a government soldier is said to have leaped across the gorge to escape the Jacobites, is a legendary landmark within the pass. Today, visitors can explore the Pass of Killiecrankie through a network of scenic trails. The National Trust for Scotland visitor centre provides information about the battle and the natural history of the area. Take a walk along the riverbank, admire the views from the suspension bridge, and imagine the events that unfolded on this very ground centuries ago. For the adventurous, there's even the option of bungee jumping from the Garry Bridge! While the Pass itself doesn't have specific culinary offerings, nearby Pitlochry boasts a variety of restaurants and cafes serving traditional Scottish fare.
Transportation
The Pass of Killiecrankie is easily accessible by car, with a car park at the National Trust for Scotland visitor centre. Alternatively, you can take a bus to Killiecrankie. Stagecoach service 87 stops near the Killiecrankie Hotel, a short walk from the visitor centre.