Doon Hill, Aberfoyle

The Faerie Tree - Doon Hill

Nestled in the picturesque heart of Scotland lies Aberfoyle, a charming village that boasts breathtaking scenery and a rich tapestry of folklore. Among its most captivating tales is the story of Reverend Robert Kirk, an enigmatic 17th-century minister whose association with the mystical Doon Hill intrigues visitors and locals alike.

What is Doon Hill?

A visit to Doon Hill is a journey into both history and myth. The trail to the summit is an easy walk, winding through lush woodland and offering a sense of tranquillity that feels otherworldly. The Fairy Tree, with its colourful tokens fluttering in the breeze, is a poignant reminder of the enduring power of belief and storytelling.

For those fascinated by the intersections of faith, folklore, and mystery, Reverend Robert Kirk’s legend at Doon Hill invites exploration. With its enchanting landscapes and rich history, Aberfoyle provides the perfect backdrop for such a tale, ensuring that the memory of the “Fairy Minister” lives on.

This is a two-hour circular walk in the footsteps of Reverend Robert Kirk. Hopefully, you won't suffer the same fate as he did in 1692.

How to get to Doon Hill?

The approach to Doon Hill, well signed from the free main public car park in Aberfoyle, starts at the old bridge, close to the new Co-Op. The location is shown on the map below.

 

Marketing Services

Websites, Video & Photography

Find Out More

Aberfoyle ‘The Faerie Capital’

Along the way, you'll pass a graveyard, which is the last resting place of the Reverend Robert Kirk, who was minister here between 1685-1692. The story of his walk has helped to make Aberfoyle known as the 'Faerie Capital'.

Who Was Reverend Robert Kirk?

Robert Kirk was born in 1644 in Aberfoyle, where he later served as a minister. A man of deep faith and intellect, Kirk was a linguist, theologian, and scholar, well-versed in Gaelic and Hebrew. His most notable work, The Secret Commonwealth of Elves, Fauns, and Fairies, published posthumously, delves into the folklore and beliefs of his time. In this remarkable manuscript, Kirk sought to document and explore the existence of supernatural beings that he believed shared the world with humans.

Kirk’s writings reveal a man who was deeply curious about the unseen. Unlike many of his contemporaries, he did not outright dismiss the tales of fairies and spirits that permeated Highland folklore. Instead, he treated them as a phenomenon worthy of study, blending his theological insights with local oral traditions.

The Mystery of Doon Hill

The legend surrounding Reverend Kirk took root after his mysterious death in 1692. Local lore claims Kirk did not simply die but was taken by the fairies to live among them. The story goes that one evening while walking on Doon Hill—a site he often frequented—Kirk collapsed and died, or so it seemed. Some say his spirit was abducted by the Fairy Folk, offended by his revelations about their secret world in The Secret Commonwealth.

Doon Hill, a verdant, conical mound surrounded by forest, is believed to be a gateway to the fairy realm. An ancient Scots pine stands at its summit, often called the “Fairy Tree.” Visitors to the hill tie ribbons, handkerchiefs, or written wishes to its branches, hoping to gain the fairies' favour or seek blessings. This tradition continues today, linking the modern world with centuries-old beliefs.

The Faerie Tree, Doon Hill, Aberfoyle

The Legacy of Robert Kirk

The legend of Reverend Kirk is more than just a tale; it is a window into the cultural and spiritual life of 17th-century Scotland. His writings capture the tension between Christian doctrine and the pagan traditions that persisted in rural communities. By documenting these beliefs, Kirk preserved a vital aspect of Scottish heritage that might otherwise have been lost.

For Aberfoyle, Doon Hill has become a site of both historical and spiritual significance. It draws tourists, folklore enthusiasts, and those curious about the supernatural, each seeking to uncover the secrets that Kirk so boldly explored.

The Trossachs Trail

Recently there has been a major revamp of the Trossachs Trail with a new website, information boards and renewal of the brown road signs that guide the route. The trail was established in the 1990s, and you can read more about it at our guide and the official website that we created for it.

Local Photographer

Weddings & Family Photo Shoots

Visit Website

Thanks for reading

Words and photography by Paul Saunders. Visit Paul’s Marketing and Photography websites for details of his services in Scotland.

Please let us know if you found the guide helpful in the comments section below.