Perthshire: Discover Bruar Canyoning Experience — An Adventure in Scotland’s Highlands
If you’re looking for a memorable outdoor adventure that combines breathtaking scenery with a splash of adrenaline, the Bruar Canyoning Experience offers just that. Based in Perth and Kinross, this three-hour guided activity takes you through the wild waterfalls and natural water slides of Scotland’s rugged highlands. From jumping off waterfalls to ziplining over glistening pools, this experience is designed to be accessible yet exciting, with plenty of choices to make it suitable for different comfort levels.
What I particularly like about this trip is the focus on learning and safety, with expert guides ensuring you’re comfortable and confident at every step. Plus, the beautiful surroundings—hidden waterfalls and lush glen—are worth every splash. The fact that photos and videos are included means you’ll have lasting memories without the hassle of photographing yourself during jumps.
One thing to consider is that weather can influence the trip—a sudden downpour might make some parts more challenging or less enjoyable—but this is part of the Scottish outdoor experience. If you’re someone who loves nature, a good laugh, and a bit of challenge, this canyoning adventure will likely hit the spot. And, with fully equipped gear from top brands like Petzl, Adidas, and Black Diamond, you’ll feel safe while tackling the natural water obstacles.
Key points / Takeaways
- Expert-guided experience ensures safety without sacrificing fun.
- Natural waterfalls and slides provide a scenic, action-packed route.
- Challenge by choice principle means you can opt out of jumps or challenging parts.
- Includes free photos and videos, so you can relive the adventure later.
- All equipment and insurance are provided, minimizing hassle for travelers.
- Suitable for non-swimmers and those over 12, but not for pregnant women or people with back problems.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Pitlochry.
Why You’ll Love the Bruar Canyoning Experience
From the moment you arrive, you’re greeted by qualified instructors, many of whom are ICOpro and UKCA certified, like Amelia—who received high praise for her thorough planning and friendly demeanor. She, along with her team, walks you through the gear, safety procedures, and what to expect during your descent through the waterfalls. The equipment—wet suits, harnesses, helmets, and canyoning shoes—are all high-quality, making you feel prepared for whatever the Scottish Highlands throw at you.
What truly makes this experience stand out is the chance to explore Scotland’s hidden waterfalls. Unlike typical sightseeing tours, here you become an active participant, jumping from heights ranging from 1 to 10 meters, but always at your own comfort level. If jumping isn’t your thing, you can slide, swim, or simply abseil down waterfalls—your choice.
I love how guides like Amelia or others in the team not only ensure safety but also create a friendly atmosphere where everyone feels encouraged. As one reviewer, Darren, noted: “The activity was amazing & thoroughly planned,” adding that it was his first canyoning experience. That sense of accomplishment is a real highlight.
Another key feature is the variety of challenges—natural water slides, waterfalls, and abseils—that keep the trip engaging without feeling repetitive or over-challenging for beginners. Sandra loved the “good variety of equipment” and the “group size was just right,” which makes for a more personal and safer experience.
What to Expect in Your Three-Hour Adventure
Starting out, you’ll arrive at the meeting point about 15 minutes early, where the team will fit you with your gear and give a detailed safety briefing. The gear includes brand-name equipment from Petzl, Adidas, and Black Diamond, ensuring durability and safety. Once suited up, your guide will walk you through the techniques needed for jumps, slides, and abseiling, emphasizing that everything is “challenge by choice.”
The journey down the waterfalls involves jumping, sliding, swimming, and abseiling. The jumps are entirely optional—most participants, like those in reviews, felt comfortable trying the 1-meter jumps and often opted for the thrill of the 3 or 5-meter drops. For the more daring, there’s even a 10-meter leap, but no one is forced.
The scenery is stunning—lush greenery surrounds the waterfalls, and the rugged cliffs lend a dramatic backdrop. As you descend, expect to pass through several natural water chutes and chutes, which make for excellent photo opportunities. Your guides will be capturing free photos and videos, so you can focus on having fun without worrying about your camera.
The trip ends back at the meeting point, where you’ll receive your ICOpro certification, a nice souvenir of your accomplishment. The entire experience lasts around three hours, which feels just right—long enough to get plenty of action, but not so long that you’ll be exhausted or bored.
Who is This Experience for?
This activity suits adventurous travelers who are comfortable in water and physical activity, but no prior canyoning experience is needed. It’s mostly “challenge by choice,” making it accessible to those who are a bit nervous but eager to try something new.
It’s great for groups, couples, or solo adventurers who want a burst of adrenaline and great scenery. Families with children over 12 can enjoy it too, provided everyone is in good health and able to handle water-based activities. It’s not suitable for pregnant women, people with back issues, or non-swimmers, but the guides are clear about these restrictions upfront.
Most reviewers felt the value was excellent given the high-quality gear, professional organization, and memorable photos included. The guides—like Amelia—are highlighted for their professionalism and helpfulness, which enhances the experience significantly.
Price and Logistics: Is It Worth It?
While the exact cost isn’t detailed here, reviews suggest this is a well-priced experience considering all the gear, instruction, photos, and insurance included. For roughly three hours of active fun in a stunning setting, many find the price justified. The fact that you get photos and videos at no extra charge adds great value, as it can be hard to capture your own moments during jumps and slides.
Meeting at the designated spot in the west car park, you’ll want to arrive 15 minutes early. You’ll be walking to the canyon area, which involves a short drive or walk—details you should confirm when booking. The activity is flexible, with availability depending on weather, so check ahead and be prepared for possible cancellations if conditions turn adverse.
Final Thoughts: Is Bruar Canyoning for You?
If you’ve ever wanted to combine a love of nature with a splash of adventure, this experience offers an excellent way to do it. It’s perfect for those who enjoy being active outdoors, like trying something new, or just want a break from traditional sightseeing. The guides’ professionalism and the emphasis on safety make this accessible for a wide range of participants, from first-timers to seasoned thrill-seekers.
The scenic waterfalls, natural water slides, and the sense of achievement—especially when overcoming fears or trying jumps—are the highlights. Plus, the inclusion of photos and videos means you’ll have keepsakes to remember your Scottish adventure long after you leave.
This is a solid choice if you’re after a memorable, active day out in Scotland’s stunning Highlands. It’s best suited for those with a spirit for adventure, a sense of fun, and an appreciation for natural beauty.
FAQ
Is prior experience necessary? No. The activity is designed to be “challenge by choice,” and guides will teach you everything you need to know.
What should I bring? Just swimwear and a towel. All technical gear, including wetsuits, harnesses, and shoes, are provided.
How long does the trip last? The entire canyoning experience runs for about 3 hours from start to finish.
Can non-swimmers participate? Yes, as long as they are comfortable in water and are over 12 years old. Non-swimmers should inform the guides beforehand.
Is it suitable for children? It’s recommended for travelers aged 12 and above. Always check with the provider if you’re booking for kids.
What about weather? Canyoning can be affected by rain or adverse weather, so check the forecast before booking.
Are there any health restrictions? Yes. The activity isn’t suitable for pregnant women, people with back problems, or those with certain health issues.
Do I get photos? Yes, free photos and videos are included, so you can relive your adventure without extra cost.
Is there insurance included? Yes, it’s part of the package, providing peace of mind during your activity.
How do I book? Check availability and reserve your spot online, with flexible options to pay later.
In all, the Bruar Canyoning Experience offers a fantastic combination of scenic beauty and adrenaline. It’s a genuine chance to see Scotland’s waterfalls from a unique perspective while challenging yourself in a safe, well-organized environment. Whether you’re on a solo trip, with friends, or family (over 12), this adventure makes for a memorable Highland highlight.