Discover Scotland in Winter

Please call our Central Reservations Team, who can help tailor your plans on +44 1408 623800.

Winter in Scotland transforms the Highland landscape into a magical winter wonderland. The ever-changing colour palette of the Highlands evolves once again with the seasons and whilst you might think that winter takes on its bleakest shades, it actually boasts some of the brightest and crispest sunrises plus stunning views of frozen lochs, white dusted evergreen trees and blankets of snow coating the mountain tops and grounds below in certain areas.

Despite the colder weather, there are still lots of places to explore and things to do in the Scottish Highlands in winter. Take advantage of the quieter season to travel the NC500.

Plockton

Staying at the Plockton Inn gives you the perfect chance to explore the Northwest Highlands in winter. Mingle with the locals outside of the main tourist season and enjoy having this gem almost all to yourself. Help to support the local business during these quieter times, by visiting the local shops, galleries, bars and restaurants, including our very own seafood restaurant, where you can warm up after a day of exploration and sample traditional Highland meals supplied by local produce.

Whilst you can’t go inside, you can still visit Eilean Donan Castle nearby as the legendary castle takes on an extra level of beauty and romance when dusted with snow. Or enjoy day trips to the Isle of Skye, Applecross, Loch Ness, Inverness and more.

Assynt

Home to the ancient Northwest Geopark, Assynt is the perfect place to visit in Scotland in winter as the rugged mountainous landscape is coated in layers of frost and icy white snow. A true winter haven, there are plenty of adventures to embark on.

Enjoy invigorating and brisk winter walks and hikes for all abilities through the Geopark to clear your mind and refresh your senses, including the ancient Coigach Geotrail, Quinag and Stac Pollaidh. Or take to the hills by mountain bike or even car if it gets too cold – the views remain equally as gorgeous!

For a slower pace, book into a photography workshop with local cameraman Chris Puddephatt, who will take you to some of the hidden local spots where you can capture the natural beauty, those magical sunrises and more.

After all your day’s adventure, return to either Kylesku Hotel or Newton Lodge, both of which offer a cosy retreat, a warm meal and a soothing dram to end your day, with views across the frozen Loch Glendhu. Winter is also one of the best times to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights and the Highlands are a great location thanks to the lack of light pollution, just be prepared to brave the cold nights!

Tongue

Speaking of the Northern Lights, our hotel in Tongue in the very north of Scotland is one of the best places to spot them in winter! Located towards the most northerly point of the UK and surrounded by mountains, the sea and vast countryside landscape visitors are often rewarded with this natural beauty in the winter months, as well as the Milky Way – making our hotel in Tongue the perfect spot for stargazing!

For more chances of spotting the stars, you can take a day trip to Orkney via the ferry ride from Thurso. The second most northerly island in Scotland, Orkney is a stunning destination in winter not only for its stars but also its historical sites and gift shops in Kirkwall and Stromness.

East Sutherland

East Sutherland is another fantastic destination to explore in Scotland in Winter. Our Royal Marine Hotel in Brora and Royal Golf Hotel in Dornoch are surrounded by thriving local wildlife in every season. Start your day early with an invigorating walk to Ledmore and Migdale or River Brora to Loch Brora. Surrounded by stunning icy landscapes, tread carefully to spot winter wildlife such as deer and Highland cows.

After your walk, shelter from the cold with a trip to any of the nearby local distilleries to sample the traditional Highland whiskies that we have to offer including Glenmorangie Distillery, Clynelish Distillery, Old Putney Distillery and more. Or if gin is more your preference, visit Dornoch Distillery Company – a new distillery opened by local brothers in Dornoch.

So, despite the cold weather, Scotland in winter is still worth the trip. Embrace the snow and the ice and you’ll be rewarded with stunning views, invigorating adventures and authentic experiences away from the main tourist season.

Book to stay in any of our hotels and start planning your winter escape in the Highlands.