The seasons may shift and the weather conditions are sure to surprise but the sweeping landscapes of Perthshire never fail to take the breath away. With the advent of warmer weather and longer days, the glens, lochs, forests and mountains that surround the Gleneagles estate become a backdrop for all manner of outdoor adventures, among which summer picnics – a tradition dating back to Victorian times – remains a perennial favourite.
Today, the sight of a Land Rover winding its way up into the hills laden with blankets and baskets is one of the estate’s most stirring images. Our picnics epitomise true Scotland and allow people to see the very best of the region – the rugged landscapes, the heather, the hills, and the feeling of being immersed in unspoiled scenery. It’s something that should be on everyone’s bucket list when they come to Gleneagles – you never quite know what you’re going to see: golden eagles, peregrine falcons, majestic red deer or even a chance sighting of the once red-listed pine marten, which is now making a comeback thanks to conservation programmes.
All of which adds an air of excitement to the prospect of wild summer dining at Gleneagles, where – depending on guests’ ambitions – there’s a full sweep of picnic experiences on offer, ranging from perfect packed lunches for on-the-go hikers to bespoke experiences led by our team of outdoor experts. With it being Gleneagles, the cuisine that accompanies each picnic excursion is just as impressive as the surrounding landscapes, with the estate’s team of chefs pulling out all the stops to deliver tailored experiences that are truly unique. Across a series of picnic menus, expect to find elevated fare that pairs hot seasonal soups and crusty sourdough sandwiches with a beautiful buffet spread that includes half-poached Scottish lobster and smoked salmon, Tweed Valley sirloin and heritage tomato salads – as well as the option to toast the day with champagne or a Macallan whisky tasting.
