Heathergems Visitor Centre Guide
Heathergems: Crafting Scottish Beauty from Nature's Palette Guide
Discover a unique and fascinating craft at the Heathergems Visitor Centre in Pitlochry. Here, you can witness the transformation of humble heather stems into beautiful and colourful jewellery and gifts. This is more than just a shopping experience; it's a chance to learn about a traditional Scottish craft and take home a truly unique souvenir. The story of Heathergems began in the 1950s when a local craftsman discovered a way to compress and dye heather stems, creating a durable and beautiful material. The process involves carefully selecting heather, drying it, and then compressing it under immense pressure with coloured resins. The resulting blocks are then cut and polished to reveal the intricate patterns and vibrant colours within. Each piece is unique, reflecting the natural variations in the heather. At the Heathergems Visitor Centre, you can take a tour to learn about the Heathergems process from start to finish. Watch skilled craftspeople at work, cutting, shaping, and polishing the heather into stunning pieces of jewellery, ornaments, and gifts. The shop offers a wide selection of Heathergems products, from necklaces and earrings to brooches and keyrings. You can even find larger items like bowls and picture frames. While the centre doesn't have a specific culinary offering, Pitlochry's cafes and restaurants are nearby for a post-visit treat.
Transportation
The Heathergems Visitor Centre is located on the outskirts of Pitlochry, easily accessible by car or a short walk. **By Foot:** It's approximately a 20-30 minute walk from the centre of Pitlochry. Follow the A924 towards Braemar. **By Car:** From Pitlochry, follow the A924 towards Braemar. The Heathergems Visitor Centre is well signposted and has ample parking.