Scotland In Winter: 7 Places To Visit This Winter
Scotland in winter is a true delight.
This is a time for mulled wine and roaring fires, picturesque snow-capped mountains, and crisp blue skies. There’s no shortage of cosy lodges, too, making Scotland in winter the perfect time to plan a staycation.
Adventurous travellers have their pick of Scotland’s ski resorts, like Aviemore and Glenshee. Whilst forest trails are my personal favourite, especially when the trees are dusted with a light coating of snow, and walks tend to be on the easier side around Perthshire’s charming towns.
Of course, Christmas brings its own festive cheer to the winter season, and you’ll find the best markets and mulled wine in the twinkling cities.
We think no matter what the forecast is, you’ll love visiting Scotland in winter - there’s so much to see and do!
So, prepare to pack your winter wardrobe: coats, boots, and warm woolly hats, and embrace Scotland’s best winter destinations. These are the best places to visit in Scotland in winter.
Quick Guide: Scotland’s Best Winter Destinations
Glencoe
Fort William
Edinburgh
Portree
Cairngorms
Aviemore
Perthshire
The best places to visit in Scotland in winter
Looking for a winter wonderland? Here are some of my favourite places to visit in Scotland in winter:
1. Glencoe
One of the best places to visit in Scotland in winter is absolutely the Highland masterpiece that is Glen Coe.
When snow falls on the mountains in Glen Coe, the landscape transforms into a picture-perfect winter scene. Picture snow-capped mountains, bright blue skies, and frozen lochs that look utterly magical.
Whilst iconic mountain Buachaille Etive Mòr is an awe-inspiring sight under a dusting of snow. The view across Loch Leven from Glencoe village is one of the best under a crisp blue winter sky.
The best winter walk in Glencoe is around the very beautiful Glencoe Lochan trail, which is an easy trail to follow even in the snow. If you’re seeking a challenge, there are plenty of summits in the area - but winter skills and gear will be essential to stay safe.
Afterwards, warm up with a hearty lunch from the very boujie Stiff Peaks bakery (we recommend the delicious sausage rolls).
2. Fort William
A bustling town in summer, in winter, Fort William’s streets are much quieter, and the town is sleepier. Oftentimes, you’ll wake up to a foggy morning, but if you’re lucky, a light snowfall.
No matter the weather, Fort William is one of the best places to visit in Scotland in winter.
There are lots of things to see and do in the town, but low-level trails like Steall Falls are the best option for getting outdoors, and absolutely gorgeous under a dusting of snow. Or plan a winter hike on Scotland’s best peak; Ben Nevis in winter is stunning, but if there’s snow, you’ll need skill, experience, and gear to stay safe. If in doubt, book a winter mountain leader.
Just outside of the town centre is Caol Beach, the ideal place for a view of Ben Nevis under a dusting of snow. Plus, the thriving cafe scene in Fort William takes on a merry atmosphere, with heaps of hot chocolates and twinkling lights; we recommend both The Kilted Camel and Wildcat Cafe.
3. Aviemore
One of the best places to truly experience winter in Scotland is undoubtedly Aviemore.
This town in the Cairngorms National Park is a firm favourite amongst winter lovers, with a ski centre, endless walking trails, snowy mountains, and plenty of opportunities for sledging, snow shoeing, and every other winter activity you can think.
The town of Aviemore is packed with places to eat and drink, and in winter there’s a real festive spirit with twinkle lights, Christmas trees, and mulled wine to warm you up. Chalet stays are popular in Aviemore in winter, with heaps of gorgeous lodges to choose from.
4. Portree, Isle of Skye
On the west coast of Scotland, the Isle of Skye is wonderful at any time. But Portree is an ideal place to spend for a staycation this winter in Scotland.
Whilst there’s little chance of snow in this coastal town, winter transforms Portree into a magical place. Twinkling lights hang around the cute boutique stores, whilst cosy cafes like Birch are perfect for hunkering down with a coffee.
At dusk the harbour lights up, the bars are festive, and quiet hotels make for a cosy winter getaway.
With limited daylight and often blustery weather, you’ll find that walks are perhaps short. Yet there’s still plenty to see, like the Fairy Pools and Neist Point. Foodies, too, will love the selection of restaurants and hearty dishes made with local produce.
Be warned, however, that many other cafes and attractions on the island close for the winter season, so plan your trip to Skye carefully.
5. Uath Lochans, Cairngorms
Tucked away in the Cairngorms National Park are Uath Lochans, four little lochs hidden amongst acres of forest.
Trust me, this is the perfect place for a winter walk. The trail around the lochans takes around 1.5-hours, but the best part is from the crags above the trees; here you’ll find one the best views in Scotland in winter. Below glittering blue lochs sparkle under the winter sun, whilst snowy peaks surround the rich woodland.
After, warm up in the Old Post office Cafe Gallery in nearby Kincraig.
6. Loch Awe
Loch Awe in Argyll is one of Scotland’s hidden gems and makes an incredible getaway in winter in Scotland.
My favourite spots are Kilchurn Castle, a postcard-perfect spot when the snow falls and the best place to see Loch Awe in its winter glory. Or, if there’s only a dusting of snow, hike to the summit of Ben Cruachan for epic views over Argyll.
Afterwards, head to the Ben Cruachan Inn for a warming whisky by the roaring fire, hearty food, and a stay in their cosy rooms.
7. Edinburgh
If you’re looking to visit Christmas markets this festive season, then Edinburgh is the perfect place to visit in Scotland in winter.
In the centre of town, you’ll find the ice-skating rink, big wheel, festive lights, and the world famous Christmas Markets. In the evening, take a wander around the stalls, an ideal place to warm up with mulled wine and piping hot doughnuts.
Be sure to also visit The Dome, with its iconic lights and giant Christmas tree.
Whilst in Edinburgh, head to the Pentland Hills for a hike. These rolling hills are only a short drive from the city and are especially beautiful when the snow falls. There are easy trails in the Pentlands to explore, or the steep summit of Scald Law.
How to visit Scotland in winter
When does it snow in Scotland?
The average number of snowy days in Scotland ranges from 10 to 20 over the winter months. That said, the mountains of the Highlands experience around 40 days of falling snow. You’re most likely to experience snow in Scotland between late December and February, though it can arrive in November and linger till March.
What is the weather like in Scotland in winter?
December, January, and February are the coldest months in Scotland, with a daily average of 5C. However, I spent last December in Aviemore and the lowest was -17 C. Though that was a period of an extreme cold front, it’s also not unheard of for the wind chill to drop the temperature into the minus range.
What kind of car do I need for Scotland in winter?
If you’re planning to visit the Highlands or explore off-the-beaten-track, I recommend an SUV for winter in Scotland. Whilst main roads will be largely gritted and ploughed when the snow hits, single-track roads and more remote places may be trickier. You’ll want 4x4 capabilities, with bigger, grippier tyres, so an SUV is perfect.
If you plan to rent, check out Discover Cars for flexible car hire with comprehensive insurance and plenty of rental options from all major cities.
What should I pack for Scotland in winter?
My top piece of advice for Scotland in winter is to dress warmly and be prepared for the cold!
This is especially true if you’re planning on lots of walks and you’ll need extra winter hiking gear. But for staycations and road trips, I recommend packing:
Winter Boots: I don’t find hiking boots to be warm enough, so I recommend bringing proper winter boots.
Wool Socks: These will keep your feet warm.
Layers: You’ll want to dress in layers while in Scotland, which includes a good base layer, an insulating layer (like fleece), and a warm jacket.
Hat: Bring a warm hat or woolly beanie.
Gloves: Bring a thick and warm pair of gloves, especially if you’re planning on time outdoors.
Thermos: Not essential, but having a thermos filled with hot chocolate or tea is the perfect way to warm up on winter walks.
