Tayside: Delve into an unforgettable area that truly has the lot

Kinnoull Hill and castle with the River Tay, Perthshire (Alamy) — The River Tay and River Cromarty have been found to have higher levels of polluting pharmaceutical drugs than the Thames.

Tayside is absolutely tops. From the heather-covered hills of Perthshire to the silvery Tay flowing past bonnie Dundee, it really has got the lot.

That includes the fact that Dundee has its own micro-climate.

Some even go as far as to claim it’s the sunniest city in Scotland. It’s also protected from the windiest of weather by hills.

Not that we’re claiming a visit to Tayside will see you basking in glorious sunshine.

This is Scotland, remember!

But the whole area has so much going on, it’s hard to know where to begin.

Dundee has become a hotspot for great things to do. If you haven’t been for a while, you’ll hardly recognise it.

Head along the waterfront and you’ll see it’s changed dramatically – and they ain’t finished yet.

If you like to shop, socialise and eat out, you won’t be disappointed. And be sure to say hello to one of the city’s most famous sons Desperate Dan, whose statue, pictured above right, stands imposingly in the centre.

Dundonians are rightly proud of their city, too – get talking to them and you’ll soon see that.

A view from a vantage point on Dundee Law

And good people of Perth, we love your city just as much. It’s perfect Perth, thanks to its independent shops, great restaurants and even its unusual buildings.

Just take a look at lovely Fergusson Gallery to see what we mean.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking Tayside is all about the cities, though. That would mean missing out on some of the most glorious countryside Scotland has to offer.

And that countryside is dotted with towns and villages, which are in turn dotted with cafes and thriving small businesses that welcome visitors with open arms.

We found not one but two master chocolatiers when we were out exploring – and yes, we felt we had to sample their wares.

Not convinced yet? Take a walk up Kinnoull Hill, just outside Perth, pictured above, and feast your eyes upon the views you see before you.

Or visit historic Dunkeld and make sure you take two strolls.

First up, a wander to The Hermitage to see gushing waterfalls, woodland and even a totem pole.

Next, a stroll along the banks of the Tay, where you’ll find the famous Birnam Oak. It’s not every day we recommend you take time out of your life to see a single tree.

Like the rest of Tayside, it’s an experience you won’t forget.