Scotland's breathtaking vistas and spectacular cityscapes look wonderful in all seasons, of course, but there's something about winter that adds an extra touch of magic. Snowcapped mountains, glittering cities, crisp mornings and starry nights all create beautiful scenery. Take a look at these fabulous photographs and we think you'll agree that winter in Scotland is truly spectacular.

1. Buachaille Etive Mor, Glen Etive

'Winter's First Bite' - Buachaille Etive Mor
Photo by Kris Williams via Flickr | Creative Commons

Waking up on a frosty morning is well rewarded with views such as this one of Buachaille Etive Mor near the entrance to Glen Coe.

2.  ABERDEEN HARBOUR

Low Tide, Aberdeen
Photo by @notnixon via Flickr | Creative Commons

Herald in a new winter's day by watching the sun rise at the beach in Aberdeen before seeing if you can spot dolphins playing in the harbour.

3. RANNOCH MOOR, PERTHSHIRE

Moonrise ~ Rannoch Moor, Scotland
Photo by Martin Sojka via Flickr | Creative Commons

Night time in winter is beautiful too - watch as the sun sets at Rannoch Moor and wait for thousands of twinkling stars.

4. THE RING OF BRODGAR, ORKNEY

Callanais Standing stones in the mist.
Photo by swaldman-firecloud via Flickr | Creative Commons

Take in the view as the sunlight casts shadows across a misty landscape at the Ring of Brodgar in Orkney.

5. George Square, Glasgow

A timelapse photo of a swings ride and a Ferris wheel at night.

Have a magical winter experience in the city centre of Glasgow - whirl round and round on rides, skate on the ice rink and explore the cheery winter markets.

6. Ben An Lochain, Arrochar Alps

Snow capped mountain peaks
Photo by Ewan MacPhillimy via Flickr | Creative Commons

Scotland's majestic snow capped peaks are perfect for winter walks.

7. Bridge of Orchy, Argyll

A lone stag in the snow by a loch with mountains in the background.
Photo by stevehorgan via Flickr | Creative Commons

Deer herds seek lower grazing in winter - so have your camera at the ready!

8. Red Squirrel

A close-up of a red squirrel dusted in snow
Image © Neil McIntyre, all rights reserved.

And be on the lookout for red squirrels too - did you know they can use their tail as a blanket in winter?

9. CAIRNGORM MOUNTAIN

Snowboarding, CairnGorm
Coris Cas, CairnGorm Mountain. Image © SkiScotland / Steven McKenna

Scotland's five mountain resorts come to life in winter, perfect for learning and honing your ski and snowboard skills.

10. STAR FLYER, EDINBURGH 

A fairground ride swings high up in the air, with the Balmoral Hotel in the background.

Soar high above Princes Street on the Star Flyer fairground ride during Edinburgh's winter festival. 

11. UP HELLY AA, SHETLAND 

A burning replica viking boat 

Or see a replica longboat go up in flames at Shetland's Up Helly Aa - what an unusual way to keep warm!

12. Barns Ness Lighthouse, DUNBAR

Aurora Borealis lights up the night sky with a spectrum of colour and serves as a perfect backdrop for Barn Ness Lighthouse.
Image © Sarah White, all rights reserved.

The depths of winter is a great time to get amazing views of the night sky - both for stargazing, and spotting the Northern Lights.

13. HOGMANAY, EDINBURGH

A band plays on stage as fireworks from Edinburgh Castle explore above them.
Image © Chris Watt Photography

Celebrate the 'Midnight Moment' at  the famous Edinburgh's Hogmanay Street Party - Scotland's biggest outdoor new year party.

14. RIVER STINCHAR, GALLOWAY FOREST PARK

River flows through snowy country side
Photo by Graeme Law via Flickr | Creative Commons

Whether you find yourself in the north or south of Scotland you can be treated to gorgeous wintry scenes - we can't guarantee the snow though! 

15. Inverurie, Aberdeenshire

Highland cow in snow

One thing's for certain - you need a thick coat to stay cosy during Scotland's winter. This Highland cow won't be beaten by the chilly conditions in Inverurie!