St Fillans: Walks, Art and Village History

St Fillans lies on the eastern edge of the national park and is designated a Conservation Village. If you are planning a stay, the village’s historic sites and activities can appeal to a range of interests: there are walks with views of Loch Earn, art in the national park, golf and sailing. The history of the place can also be seen in its buildings and named sites.

Village Character, Monuments and Art

Many of the splendid stone houses with their gables facing the main street can be dated to an earlier period and give St Fillans the character of a spa town. At the summit of Dundurn, also known as St Fillans Hill, there is a Scheduled Ancient Monument. This designation recognises the summit’s national importance and its former religious significance to Christians and Picts.

To the south-east of the village is St Fillans Chapel, an old and historically significant ruin. It is believed to be a 16th-century building on the site of an earlier chapel said to have been founded by St Fillan. This is distinct from the Chapel of Dundurn: it became the burial place of the Stewarts of Ardvorlich in 1586 and still serves as such today.

The BLiSS Trail connects places in the national park through a series of artworks and passes through the four communities of Balquhidder, Lochearnhead, Strathyre and St Fillans. This makes it possible to combine the theme of art with a drive along the entire route; you can walk or cycle on some sections.

Walks and Views

The Circle the Village Walk first follows the River Earn and then runs behind the village. At the end, it offers views of Loch Earn and the hills beyond. The route may change; check the route information before setting off. The St Fillans Information Point and the footbridge are the start and end points of the Hydro-Power Station Surge Shaft Walk. Here too, trail conditions and wayfinding may change.

Two more sections of the Loch Earn Railway Path have been upgraded to “all ability” status. If you would like to include this path in your plans, check the current status of the sections. The different walks and information give you practical pointers for planning your exploration of St Fillans.

Golf, Sailing and Activities on Loch Earn

The St Fillans Golf Club has a nine-hole course on the other side of the River Earn. It was designed by Willie Auchterlonie, a St Andrews professional and Open Champion. The opening shot was played by the Countess of Ancaster on 8 August 1903. Visitors can book and pay for a tee time online through the club’s website or the Scottish Golf App.

The Loch Earn Sailing Club is on the north shore of Loch Earn, near the St Fillans end of the loch. It is considered a popular sailing club and offers relaxed family sailing as well as training in modern, fully equipped facilities. Loch Earn is considered one of Scotland’s most scenic inland waters for sailing. Check the club’s seasonal opening details before your trip.

Each year, the club holds two open regattas in support of charitable causes; non-members can also take part. As dates may vary, it is worth checking the dates for your trip. In the 2026 season, Drummond Trout Farm offers fishing for brown trout, rainbow trout and char, as well as the hire of one of its boats. Check the applicable rules and availability in advance.

More Destinations

Explore more destinations: Crieff, Dull, Scone, Kinross, Glencarse, Dunning, Grandtully, Braco.

Return to the regional travel overview: Perth And Kinross.