THE market town of Aberfeldy, set in the picturesque surroundings of Perthshire, has witnessed a surge in independent retailers and community run attractions to make it an ideal destination for a country break.

The area seeps with a sense of community cohesion, with the refurbishment and restoration of the Birks cinema - spearhead by residents – and a High Street littered with independent traders, bookshops, galleries, and coffee shops.

As one retailer put it, “it’s not your usual tartan and tat”.

Akin to the thriving town, the established Moness Resort has recently completed a £300,000 investment in its wedding, restaurant and leisure facilities, underlining its transformation to a top hospitality venue.

Until several years ago it was predominantly a timeshare resort where owners took cottages for a week or two every 12 months.

In 2013 it was bought out by its management team who changed its focus and launched a development programme.

Ken Lockley, commercial director, told the Reporter: “Management had recognised for some time that the timeshare concept was outmoded.

“Indeed, many of the timeshare owners viewed their holdings as redundant, because their lifestyles had changed.”

Timeshare owners were offered the opportunity to withdraw from the scheme and only a small proportion of the cottages are currently held on a timeshare basis.

Set in 35 acres, accommodation now consists of a 26 room, four star hotel and 106 cottages of various styles.

A marquee – which has its own bar and kitchen - has been erected to hold weddings and other events, and the resort also has its own wedding planner.

Its fine dining restaurant The Flemmyng has been refurbished and an adjacent new lounge created.

The dining menu is able to satisfy all tastes its selection on offer, from those seeking more established dishes, to those looking for something a little more adventurous.

It also makes good use of fine Scottish produce, including delicately pan fried scallops and Highland venison.

Staff are attentive willing to advise the guests about what’s on offer at Scotland’s Outdoors Adventure Capital, from cycling, golf, rafting, or numerous walks – including the pleasant Birks of Aberfledy stroll, which inspired the Robert Burns poem of the same name.

The resort also boasts health and beauty treatments and an indoor hot tub installed to complement facilities in the leisure centre which include a swimming pool, steam room and sauna.

John McKenzie, managing director of the Moness Group, said: “The transformation has created more high quality tourism facilities for visitors to Highland Perthshire as well as a first class venue for weddings and other events in the middle of some of Scotland’s most spectacular scenery.”

The unassuming town of Aberfeldy quickly delights and easily entertains visitors whilst the investment in the town’s all-encompassing resort serves to establish the region as a destination for both national and international tourists .