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Follow in the footsteps of Scotland's nsytionsl poet who was inspired by the natural beauty of the Gorge.and influenced the name and popularity of this site.

Originally known as the Den of Moness. the area was renamed after a song written by Burns following his visit in August 1787. The poet is said to have found inspiration whilst resting in a naturally formed seat in the gorge For over 2000 years people have been coming here to walk through the woodland and up to the bridge overlooking the dramatic Falls of Doness.

Newer species of tree were planted here at the end of the 1780s to accompany the native Oak, Hazel, Ash and Barch ( Birk). The late 18th & early 19th centuries saw a tre planting revival in Scotland, when large estates were landscaped for pleasure, or forrested for profitwith trees introducced by plant collectord such as David Douglas of Scone and local man, Archibald Menzies.

Due to the wealth of trees and other plants like mosses and ferns which flourish in the damp conditions beside the stream the gorge is designated a Site of Special Scientific Interest. These plants provide food and shelter for a wide variety of wildlife , especially birds. Lookout for the green and great spotted woodpecker, tree creeper, sparrowhawk, dipper and many more.

See the places were Robbie Burns was inspired to write the Birks of Aberfeldy and follow verses from the song along the route.