Go down to the woods for a magical experience
At this time of year, Scotland’s trees put on an amazing show as their leaves turn glorious shades of gold, crimson and orange.
Nothing, you may think, could make them look better.
Perthshire, in particular – it’s known as Big Tree Country – is home to many beautiful forests and woodlands, but, at this time of year, there’s one which guarantees to dazzle all those who visit it.
Between now and October 27, Faskally Wood, near Pitlochry, is transformed into The Enchanted Forest and is home to a premier sound and light show that changes the entire look and feel of the long-established woodland.
Spectacular lighting effects are used to transform the woods and visitors are treated to a series of spectacular and choreographed mini sound and light shows while they follow the path around the forest.
It is the 12th time this event has been held, and it is on course to smash all previous box-office records, with organisers reporting that advance ticket sales are up more than 50% on the previous year.
The 2013 show, Absorb, has been designed by a creative team led by Derek Allan and including Scottish lighting designers Kate Bonney and Simon Hayes and music by R.J. McConnell which includes a specially commissioned orchestral piece in collaboration with composer Jon Beales.
Together, they have created a dazzling and engaging show which celebrates the stunning woodland setting of the event and, appropriately, marks the Year of Natural Scotland.
Derek Allan, producer of The Enchanted Forest 2013, said: “We have worked especially hard this year to ensure we deliver a show that is both creative and visually stunning.
“Every year, the remarkable natural woodland of Faskally Wood provides our canvas and inspiration and we really hope our audience members enjoy their visit.”
MP Pete Wishart, who opened the show last week, said: “This is undoubtedly one of Scotland’s finest cultural events, which just continues to go from strength to strength.
“Last year, it attracted over 30,000 visitors to Highland Perthshire, an essential boost for the local economy, but it also showcases the natural beauty of Scotland right across the globe.
“The Enchanted Forest is a must-see event for any visitor to Scotland in the autumn.”
Budding photographers visiting this year can submit their own digital artwork to an esteemed panel of judges for the event’s first photographic competition. The winner will receive vouchers for photography kit as well as see their winning image displayed as a special guest exhibit in Perth Museum and Art Gallery’s Big Roots Exhibition, which features images of big trees from the local area.
Mr Allan said: “Every year, our visitors send in literally hundreds of photos on social media and we thought it would be fantastic if we could reward them for their photographic efforts.
“We are very lucky to have secured Anna Henly, an award winner at the BBC Wildlife Photographer of the Year Competition, to act as our guest judge and we very much look forward to seeing everyone’s interpretations of The Enchanted Forest this year.”
Tickets are in very high demand, with many weekend shows sold out already, so advance booking is required.
For full location and price details, see the fact box.
Where: The Enchanted Forest takes place at Faskally Wood, near Pitlochry. Visitors travel to the event on shuttle buses which leave from Fisher’s Hotel, Pitlochry. Aim to be at the hotel around 10 minutes before the time shown on your tickets.
When: Running daily until Sunday, October 27, with shows starting at various times after darkness falls. Visitors should allow at least 60-90 minutes to see and hear everything.
Cost: For Monday-Thursday shows, tickets are priced from £7.50 for adults, with family tickets at £35 and children aged 3-15 at £7.50. Prices for Friday-Sunday shows are £17.50, £46 and £8 respectively.
Contact: Visit the Enchanted Forest website at www.enchanted forest.org.uk or call 0871 288 7655. Tickets can also be bought in person at Just the Ticket, 89 Atholl Road, Pitlochry.