Scotland is a stunning island that can be enjoyed at any time of year. Whatever your plans, be ready for any type of weather because Scotland’s winter weather is so unpredictable. You can use our list of Scotland’s top winter destinations to plan your travels.
1. Edinburgh
While not frequently covered in snow, Edinburgh is even more charming when it is. High above the meandering lanes of the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle shines a lovely light from the pinnacle of its hilltop residence. You’re in for a wintery treat at this top destination when you combine lovely Christmas markets with sparkling lights.
Edinburgh is one of the top destinations in the UK to visit during the winter since it has so many fun things to do. Take a stroll up Arthur’s Seat, Holyrood Park’s highest point, if the weather is good. The steepled churches and medieval structures of Edinburgh may be seen magnificently from the top.
2. Inverness
There is no shortage of beauty in Inverness, which is located at the beautiful Great Glen’s northern end. Every winter traveler to Scotland should experience swimming in the glistening Loch Ness, but instead, they should stroll along its banks and take in the view from the top of Urquhart Castle.
As you wander about the area, take in the crisp, fresh air and gaze in awe at the sparkling snow and ice that adorn the historic structures and gorgeous surroundings. After that, make a golf reservation at the Inverness Golf Club. The answer is that you can play golf in the cold.
3. Glasgow
Glasgow, Scotland’s largest city, is the place to go if you want to exercise your shopping prowess, particularly during the holiday season. In St. Enoch Square, there is a sizable Christmas market with unique goods, sweets, beautiful lights, and music.
With the addition of a skating rink, a huge Ferris wheel, and a carousel, in addition to holiday-themed treats and crafts, George Square becomes the scene of even more festive enjoyment.
Keep an eye out for beauty as you stroll Style Mile’s streets in your cozy winter attire. You’ll drive through grand Victorian homes and other wonderful old structures that will make your camera tremble with delight.
4. Ben Nevis
The tallest peak in the UK, Ben Nevis, is located in the Grampian Mountain Range. Over 125,000 walkers visit these mountains each year, some of whom undertake the long and difficult climb (also known as “bagging the Ben”) to the peak of its enormous star.
Plan your route in advance and prepare for all weather conditions if you want to be one of them. It is advised that only seasoned climbers try this journey in the winter. The Mountain Track, which starts at the Glen Nevis Visitor Center’s parking lot, is the simplest route.
The Scottish mountains outside of Fort William provide a wealth of chances for participating in winter sports, although perhaps being inferior to the Alps. There are many runs available for skiers and snowboarders and an off-piste area. At this snowy location, sledding and snow biking are also common activities.
5. Isle of Skye
The Isle of Skye is the largest island in the Inner Hebrides archipelago, with a length of 80 kilometers. It’s also possibly the most attractive. There is so much to enjoy, including fairy glens, antiquated rock ponds, gorgeous mountains, and deep, rough valleys, that you’ll want to extend your stay.
There are several benefits to traveling in the winter, such as not having to crop visitors out of your shots or paying outrageous amounts for food and housing. Additionally, you can clearly see the dawn, which occurs at 9 am during the winter rather than 3:30 am during other seasons.
6. Cairngorm National Park
You’ll like visiting Cairngorm National Park in the winter, whether you enjoy hiking, bird viewing, or shooting lots of pictures. A sanctuary for wildlife, this outstanding natural attraction is the glittering beauty of the Scottish Highlands. While exploring its trails, keep your eyes peeled because you might see a red deer or a golden eagle.
The park’s expansive grounds may be explored for days as you warm up with hearty food from nearby eateries. Or, head to one of the three ski resorts in the park. From December through May, Cairn Gorm Mountain, The Lecht Ski Centre, and Glenshee Ski and Snowboard are all open.
7. Loch Leven
The captivating freshwater Loch Leven is located in the southernmost part of Scotland, 20 miles south of Perth. This is the largest lowland lake in the nation, a haven for wildlife, and an amazing location for pictures.
Loch Leven is a popular destination for bird watchers in the winter because it is home to more than 35,000 species. To find out more about them, go to the RSPB Loch Leven Center. You can also hire binoculars to use when viewing them from the viewing hides.
Visit Water Leven Castle, which is situated on an island on the loch. Here, Mary Queen of Scots was once imprisoned. Another well-liked destination is the 21-kilometer-long Loch Leven Heritage Trail, which tempts visitors to cycle or stroll around the loch while taking in its splendor.
8. Urquhart Castle
Visitors can get a glimpse into Urquhart Castle’s 1,000-year-old past as they explore the ruins, which are located on a headland with a view of the glistening Loch Ness. This legendary location, one of the biggest castles in the nation, is not to be missed for its inherent beauty, unparalleled vistas, and extensive history.
The best views are from the top of Grant Tower, and seeing the windowless prison cell is a little unsettling. The enormous trebuchet that has been placed in a clear space on the main lawn will be a big hit with children. In order to get a treat, they can then ascend the hill to the gift shop.
Booking a boat cruise will up the fun factor and give you the added benefit of exploring Loch Ness and taking in the gorgeous castle from the sea. If you’re very fortunate, you might even see the Loch Ness Monster, so be prepared with your camera.
9. Perthshire
The historic Perthshire region, often known as the county of Perth and Kinross, is abundant in natural beauty. This stunning region, which is located in the middle of Scotland, is home to the magnificent Loch Tay, deep woodlands, and a section of the Grampian Mountains.
These beauties are rendered more alluring in the winter by the glistening ice and snow. Put your boots on and stroll into the Hermitage Forest to take in the breathtaking views. Ossian’s Hall of Mirrors, a Georgian building designed to provide unrivaled views of the Black Linn Falls, is particularly spectacular. This is unquestionably among Perthshire’s top winter travel destinations.
10. John Muir Trail
The John Muir Trail, one of the “nicest treks in Scotland,” is 134 miles long and will take you days to complete. This extensive outdoor trail, which is named after the renowned Scottish-American naturalist, writer, and environmentalist, offers tourists a calm approach to take in the Scottish countryside.
From Dunbar on the east coast to Helensburgh on the west, the trail crosses the center of Scotland. Visitors can bike the entire length of it if it is not icy, finding undiscovered rivers, bays, and beaches. On your tour, you can stroll by glistening lochs, admire undulating hills, and fall in love with charming communities.
The enormous Loch Lomond & The Trossachs National Park is easily accessible from charming Balloch, located on the banks of Loch Lomond.
11. Glencoe Mountain Resort
With skis and poles in hand, tourists swarm to this resort throughout the winter to take advantage of its challenging routes. If you’ve ever imagined flying down snow-covered slopes in the UK, here is the place to go. It is home to “the longest and steepest ski run in Scotland.”
On skis or a snowboard, tourists can explore 20 slopes of varying difficulty, and eight lifts will take them to the top. Daily hot food is available at The Plateau Café, making it a great place to take a break during the day.
12. Shetland Islands
The Shetland Islands are the best locations in Scotland to see the aurora borealis. One of the best winter activities in Scotland is to watch Mother Nature’s magnificent midnight light show, known as the Mirrie Dancers.
Though not the only one, a visit to this tourist destination is worthwhile. The Shetland Museum in Lerwick is one of the museums that are still open in the winter.
Winter treks are a well-liked activity, particularly if you stay near the coast, where there is a higher likelihood of seeing whales and otters. At this time of year, The Knab in Lerwick is one of the best sites to hike, and fortunate hikers may see seals along the way.
