Scotland in the Winter: Best Places to Visit During a Festive Trip
During the winter months, Scotland becomes an extremely unique and magical place. The dramatic landscapes are truly enhanced by frost and snow, and many popular spots are a lot quieter, making a trip to Scotland during the winter a highly peaceful and enchanting experience. From exciting festive cities, to cosy highland pubs and spectacular views, here are a few of the best places to hit up in our colder months!
Edinburgh
Already a captivating city, Edinburgh is absolutely bursting with joy and festive cheer during the winter. The city’s festive lights, markets, and vibrant culture make for a magical experience, and there are an abundance of cosy and welcoming pubs and restaurants where you can enjoy a wee heat and a dram after a day out exploring the impressive sights. Take in the cinematic frosted views from Arthur’s Seat, wonder around the magnificent architecture, and embrace the festive cheer that runs through the city.
2. Cairngorms National Park
Cairngorms National Park is known for impressive scenery and views, but the winter is when this land is truly at its finest. Mountains are often layered in snow, and the lochs are frosted and still. This is a very serene location for spending the season, but there is also a lot of activities on offer. For those who enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or hiking around the wintry hills, this is definitely the place to go.
3. Glencoe
Glencoe is an absolutely stunning location all year round, and there is never a bad time to visit. But when the colder weather settles in, and there’s that lovely crisp clean air, the landscape turns into a very traditional and picturesque winter scene. The impressive hills topped with snow are the perfect backdrop for the wildlife and stunning nature that is present on the land. This location is a must see on your winter trip to Scotland, and a great place for capturing photos.
4. Portree, Isle of Skye
Portree is usually an extremely popular and busy location on the Isle of Skye during its peak tourism months, but during the winter, this charming town becomes a very peaceful haven for fewer visitors. You can indulge in local delicacies within the many warm and cosy pubs in the town, and enjoy the immaculate views of the roaring hills as they are sprinkled with snow. Portree has many walking routes and paths for you to embark on, where you might also encounter more wildlife during these quieter times.
5. Loch Ness
The cool and misty waters of Loch Ness are a must see during Scotlands winter. Not only will you have some of the most beautiful views around, you will also be surrounded by history. Investigate Urquhart Castle at a time with fewer people, stop for some wholesome cuisine, and just delight in the idyllic setting of Loch Ness. The winter scenery of the Loch also makes for a far more mystical atmosphere when looking out for Nessie!
The summertime may seem like the best time to come to our beautiful country, but experiencing Scotland during the winter is a trip like no other. The landscape offers breathtaking and tranquil views, while the cities are filled with energy and cosy spots to wind down in. Don’t hesitate to take a trip to Scotland in the winter, you can even join us on our winter tours too!
