Picturesque Perthshire town named Scotland's sunniest destination
Scotland has followed up the sunniest April on record with an incredible start to May. While many of us were expecting a return to the norm after two mini-heatwaves last month, the last few weeks have been even better.
And one town has been basking in sunshine more than anywhere else in the country so far this month. New figures from the Met Office, analysed by No Deposit Awards, reveal that Pitlochry in Perthshire has taken the top spot in Scotland, clocking up over 193 hours of sunshine.
While the broader list of the UK's sunniest destinations is mostly dominated by English and Welsh locations, Pitlochry edged out the Highlands town of Aviemore to become Scotland's standout sunshine spot this May, Scottish Daily Express reports.
The weather throughout spring has defied expectations. Typically hit or miss at this time of year, the past three months have instead been marked by unusually dry and calm conditions after a long, dark, and dreary winter.
Met Office chief meteorologist Ian Lisk explained: "t's all to do with our old friend, the jet stream. Weather typically moves across the UK from west to east.
"But the north-south amplification of the jet stream has enabled areas of high pressure to hang around in the vicinity of the UK. This means that our share of the more typical unsettled weather has been deflected away from us.'
Even without the sun, Pitlochry remains one of the most picturesque and popular places to visit in the country. It is the biggest town in Highland Perthshire, which links the two historic regions.
Established as a Victorian spa town in the 1800s, it sits at the heart of Perthshire's 'Big Tree Country', a nickname earned thanks to the area's towering woodlands and ancient forests.
Among the highlights is the nearby Hermitage, a woodland wonder complete with tumbling waterfalls and breathtaking viewpoints. Just outside the town lies Faskally Woods, home to a serene trail that winds through majestic trees lining the edges of Loch Dunmore.
Also close by is Queen's View, one of Scotland's most iconic viewpoints, offering a sweeping panorama over Loch Tummel that's said to have been a favourite of Queen Victoria.
Back in the town centre, Pitlochry boasts a bustling high street filled with independent retailers, tourist favourites and high street names.
There's no shortage of cosy cafés, inviting restaurants and traditional pubs for those in need of a break after a long walk.
The town is also home to a variety of restaurants and cafés, so there really is something for everyone. It is even home to what has been called "the best chocolate in the world".
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For those with a sweet tooth, Pitlochry's star attraction might just be the home of Scotland's most awarded chocolatier, Iain Burnett Highland Chocolatier.
Visitors can indulge in the attraction's famous creations and try the award-winning hot chocolate, which was voted the best in Europe.
The Pitlochry Dam and visitor centre is another must-see, providing stunning views across the man-made Loch Faskally, all just minutes from the heart of town.
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