Scotland in winter is simply magical. The air is fresh and crisp and, in the cities, the lights of the Christmas markets begin to sparkle like shiny new diamonds in the distance. In the countryside, the pubs, guesthouses, and hotels are closing the curtains and lighting the fires to create a warm, welcome and homely space for romantic getaways, family escapes and solo adventures. You will discover that Christmas in Scotland has all the ingredients for the perfect festive break. Below is your guide to some of the many things to do in a Scottish winter break.
Scotland is filled with beautiful places to wander during the cold season. Enjoy the beautiful appearance of the glistening snow-topped hills, frost crunching your feet and crisp air filling your lungs – plus it’s a perfect excuse to enjoy a hot chocolate when you return back to base. With so many walks to choose from, it can be difficult to decide where to start, so we’ve helped narrow it down to our two favourites.
1. Loch Morlich, Cairngorms National Park
This walk is approximately 3.7 miles and loops you around the breathtaking Loch Morlich which offers stunning views of the northern Cairngorm mountains. These mountains always look beautiful, but they’re particularly majestic and special when they are dusted with snow. This loch is nestled in the heart of Glenmore Forest and a winter walk here will transport you into the pages of a storybook.
2. Ben Lomond, Loch Lomond and the Trossachs National Park
This walk is around 7.5 miles and a perfect chance to experience one of Scotland’s most popular mountains in a quiet setting allowing you to enjoy uninterrupted views of the extremely beautiful Loch Lomond that lies below you. Remember to try and spot some ptarmigan in their snow-white plumage as you climb to the top.
Scotland has many wonderful cities for you to explore during the winter and Christmas period and they are certainly not short of things to do. Below are two of our favourites!
1. Inverness
Discover the beautiful architecture of the Highland capital and visit at nightfall when it looks amazing in the low winter lights. You can shop until you drop at some of the fantastic shopping events that take place throughout winter or entertain yourself with lots of festive frolics. And if you fancy a bite to eat, the top restaurants in Inverness will showcase you an array of festive feasts to tuck into.
2. Edinburgh
From the months of November to January, the city of Edinburgh falls under the Yuletide spell. Imagine a city of fairy lights twinkling amongst the trees, warm delicious delicacies and drinks from across Europe and bustling markets selling all kinds of festive goodies. You can also enjoy stunning panoramic views of the capital and all its festive lights from the top of the Big Wheel.
You can discover more about what’s going on throughout the various cities in Scotland here.
Scotland during the winter season is home to some unique and beautiful wildlife and a great place to spot some is within the Cairngorms national park. Whilst you are out and about enjoying the surrounding breathtaking landscapes, you should also keep your eyes open for Scotland’s wilder inhabitants. In the Cairngorms National Park, you may even get lucky and spy pure white hares on mountainsides, so be sure to bring your binoculars and a good camera with you!
Thanks to the many areas which experience little or no light pollution, Scotland isn’t short of amazing places to lay down, relax and star gaze. On a clear night, you can enjoy wonderful stargazing with infinite planets and stars which can be discovered without a telescope. If you prefer to locate yourself in a specific location, then why not check out the Dark Sky Park in Galloway Forest Park in south west Scotland or head to the Dark Sky Discovery Points located across the Highlands.
If you need the perfect place to stay on a Christmas and winter break to Scotland then why not check out the range of luxury self-catering accommodation we have on offer. With such a wide choice of properties available, you can find something to suit your taste and budget. Get in touch with us today to enquire or find out more information and start planning your perfect winter escape to Scotland today.
