December breaks in Scotland

Discover some of Scotland's most iconic landscapes with a December break in the Cairngorms National Park. See the winter sunrise light up towering mountains, cut through fresh powder snow on a ski retreat, experience the wonder of a night sky full of stars or warm up with a glass of whisky in front of the fire.  

Visit Glenshee Ski Centre 

Travel on the beautiful SnowRoads Scenic Route – part of the highest main road in Britain – weaving through the atmospheric hills and mountains until you reach Glenshee. This popular glen sits between Perthshire and the Cairngorms in Scotland’s north-east. Adventure to the Glenshee Ski Centre and glide down snowy pistes with exhilarating views.  

Ski and Snowboard at Glenshee Snow Sports Centre  

Stargazing in the Cairngorms 

With vast landscapes and dark nights, the Cairngorms National Park affords uninterrupted views of starry skies. Wrap up warm and feel the magic of stargazing amid some of Scotland's most dramatic scenery. The Discovery Centre in Tomintoul and Glenlivet frequently hosts stargazing events, exhibitions and tours, and you may even be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights shimmering above you in shades of pink, red and green. For a warming tipple to accompany your evening of watching the skies, try a local dram from Dalwhinnie Distillery. 

Cairngorms Dark Sky Park

Winter wildlife 

Take the whole family to meet polar bears, snow leopards and more at the Highland Wildlife Park, or visit the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre and really embrace the Christmas spirit with the UK's only free-ranging reindeer herd. Elsewhere in the Cairngorms National Park, look for red deer, mountain hares in their white coats, and Highland coos. 

See the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre 

Visit the Highland Wildlife Park  

Get swept away by a luxury city break this winter. Think soft tartan throws, flickering candlelit dinners and a warming hot chocolate after a day spent discovering the wonders of the Christmas markets and light shows taking place across Scotland in December.  

Winter markets and festivals

Browse craft stalls and meet local makers, sample food that's been roasted on outdoor fire pits or just slow down and admire the twinkling lights and sights around you in a characterful Scottish city.  

Christmas Events & Winter Festivals in Scotland

Luxury breaks  

December is a month for cosying up, taking care of yourself and enjoying life's little luxuries. Enjoy the glitz and glam of a city break, from sipping champagne afternoon tea in a grand hotel to watching the waves crash offshore from your spa window.  

Luxury Holidays & Breaks in Scotland

Soak up some culture 

Every corner of Scotland has rich history, dramatic stories and local creativity on offer. Visit the museums, art galleries and attractions across our cities this December to escape the winter weather and get inspired for the coming new year. Look at paintings by famous artists or wander the winding corridors of a medieval castle before warming up with a hot coffee nearby. Just make sure to check winter opening hours and availability before visiting.  

Scottish Culture and History

Few places feel as dramatic in December as Glencoe. Snow-capped peaks rise like giants, while the glen’s brooding beauty comes alive in the winter light. 

For seasoned skiers and mountaineers, the high ground can be exhilarating – but conditions demand specialist skills, good awareness and the right kit. For non-specialists, the village and low-level trails offer a serene alternative: crisp woodland walks, scenic viewpoints, or peaceful hours spent by a roaring pub fire. Always check the weather, paths and daylight hours, and choose routes that suit your experience.

Snowsports at Glencoe Mountain Resort 

When conditions are right, feel the wind whip past you as you ski or snowboard down the slopes at Glencoe Mountain Resort, with beautiful views over Rannoch Moor on a clear day. Families will love the dedicated sledging slope – a brilliant, low-pressure way to enjoy the snow. Always dress for wind chill and follow on-site guidance. 

Snowsports at Glencoe Mountain resort 

Winter wanders 

Take your time getting to know the vast landscapes around you in the Glencoe area, whether snow is dusting the treetops or it's a fresh winter morning. Lace up your boots and get some quality time outdoors with the whole family on accessible walks like Signal Rock and An Torr for enchanting woodland paths and viewpoints, each steeped in local legend. Warm up with a hot drink at the Glencoe Visitor Centre when you're done, a 17th century replica turf house that has a short cinema experience sharing the glen’s stories. 

Glencoe and Kinlochleven walks

Seasonal food offerings 

Tuck into hearty, local fare at favourites such as The Old Inn, The Pier House, The Glencoe Inn and The Ballachulish Hotel. Expect comforting classics like seafood, game and rich stews, all served with roaring fires and warm Highland hospitality. Sample what Scotland has to offer this season, from homegrown root vegetables and fresh salmon to festive game and poultry.  

Scotland's Seasonal Food Calendar