Crieff is a quiet Victorian town in Perthshire, tucked into the southern edge of the Scottish Highlands where the lowlands give way to hills and moorland. It was once the site of Scotland's largest cattle fair — drovers brought Highland cattle here from across the north — and that crossroads character persists. The town sits at the meeting point of gentle Strathearn and the wilder country to the north.
The Glenturret Distillery, just outside town, claims to be Scotland's oldest working distillery and offers well-run tours. Crieff Hydro, a vast Victorian resort hotel, has been drawing families since 1868 and has an almost village-like self-sufficiency. The town itself is pleasant for a wander — independent shops, good bakeries, and views up to the Knock, the wooded hill above town that gives a panorama over Strathearn.
Crieff makes a good base for exploring Highland Perthshire. The Sma' Glen runs north into the mountains, Drummond Castle Gardens (one of Scotland's finest formal gardens) are just south, and Perth is about 30 minutes by car.