It’s Enchanted Forest time in Pitlochry, Perthshire, and something I look forward to every year. The event does a fantastic job of increasing the anticipation even after you arrive, with atmospheric music playing in the coach, and little glimpses of what to expect as you walk towards the main area. This year we spotted musical instruments and music notes on the way in, and there was also the light-up stepping stones and some really cool glowing swing seats, making a perfect photo opportunity.

The first main installation this year features giant dandelion clocks and an audio piece explaining that we’ll follow these ‘wishes’ around the forest, and we’ll hear the different sounds of nature come together in harmony. As usual, two food truck and a bonfire are welcome additions at this point, and we sat and ate fish and chips while waiting for the forest to get fully dark for our photos.

There were lots of highlights for me this year — the fun frogs and bright butterflies were great, and I will go as far as to say that the projected water display was my favourite one ever (so far). It was absolutely stunning.

I also really loved the colourful strobe light tunnel, having hot chocolate and churros in front of the fire, and the special musical sculpture called In Bloom from Kumquat Lab. I love an interactive installation, and the ten lit up spheres, each representing a flower, make a musical note when you touch them, representing a pollinator gathering nectar.

The final display was again a bit different this year, and again I’m going to say it was my favourite ever so far! Normally the finale features lights moving in time to a stirring piece of music, but this time the organisers have thrown in some fountains as well, and it was almost like watching fireworks made of water. I LOVED it.

Overall, this was up there with the best Enchanted Forest events we’ve attended. Some have been exciting, mysterious, or exhilarating. This one I would describe as relaxing. The theme of bringing everything together in harmony makes for a soothing, peaceful experience that still has elements of fantasy and a sense of the dramatic. The woodland and waterside setting is fully embraced and made the most of, and the staff doing an amazing job of helping you make the most of the evening. Thanks everyone.    

https://www.enchantedforest.org.uk

Nathan and Abi were invited to the free press review night for the purpose of this article