February breaks in Scotland

Snowy adventures

There’s something magical about the Cairngorms National Parks in winter. Maybe it’s the snow-dusted mountains, the crisp Highland air, or the jaw-dropping landscapes that unfold as far as the horizon. One thing is for certain – when conditions are just right, February is a marvellous month to hit the slopes at its three ski centres: Cairngorm Mountain, The Lecht 2090, and Glenshee. Whether you’re a novice at snowsports or are at home carving your way down the mountain, the centres offer runs to suit all abilities, as well as equipment hire and lessons, to help you get the most out of your visit. Even if you don’t ski or snowboard, the funicular ride to the top of Cairngorm Mountain boasts views every bit as exhilarating as a downhill run.

Enjoy snowsports in the Cairngorms

Stargazing and Northern Lights

The fun doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. Turn your gaze upward to the celestial wonders of the pristine night sky. With minimal light pollution and long winter nights, the Cairngorms are the place to be when it comes to stargazing and having a good chance of catching the Northern Lights. Head to Loch Insh for a guided journey through the night sky. Begin beneath the indoor dome, discovering the secrets of distant stars, planets and constellations, before stepping outside to see how many you can spot.

Winter is traditionally the season of gathering round the hearth to hear a good yarn. Why not take things outdoors on a moonlight stroll with Strathspey Storywalks around the forests of Aviemore? Listen as guides regale you with myths and legends from Scotland’s Gaelic and Pictish past, sipping a hot cup of foraged wild tea, with the inky black sky twinkling overhead.

Admire the stars in the Cairngorms

Discover Strathspey Storywalks

Attractions for everyone

Spanning a remarkable 4,528 km², the Cairngorms National Park is dotted with pretty towns and villages, each with their own distinct charms and attractions. Meander the street of Braemar and Ballater with their Victorian architecture and royal associations and drop by sleepy Highland villages like Nethy Bridge and Boat of Garten. Venture further afield to savour the timeless beauty of the Angus Glens and Glenshee, with roads snaking through mountains passes, lush valleys and untouched wilderness.

Explore beyond the scenery and choose from some memorable experiences, from wild encounters at Highland Wildlife Park and tree-top thrills at Landmark Forest Adventure Park, to fascinating castles and exhilarating outdoor adventures.

Find attractions for your trip to the Cairngorms

The Six Nations

There are few things that bring Scots together more than cheering their national team to victory. Join in the pride, passion and camaraderie as the Six Nations rugby tournament (5 February – 13 March 2027) kicks off. Hear the thunderous roar of the crowd at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium as the players file onto the pitch and – fingers crossed – score the winning try, or watch the game unfold with fellow spectators from a pub on the big screen.

Find out more about the Six Nations

Escape the cold

Get your toes tapping at a different kind of get-together. Every Tuesday evening, the Edinburgh Ceilidh Club gets people spinning across the floor at Summerhall to the stirring sound of fiddles and accordions. Whether you’re a Scottish dance devotee or new to the Gay Gordons or Strip the Willow, everyone is welcome.

Escape the February chill and warm up with a dram or two at Edinburgh’s Whiski Rooms. Perched at the top of the Royal Mile, hunker down in the mahogany hued tasting room of this award-winning whisky bar and restaurant for a refined introduction to Scotland's national drink, by sampling four unique malts paired with a gourmet cheese.  

Join in with the Edinburgh Ceilidh Club

Warm up at the Whiski Rooms

Spectacular sculptures

Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns (November 2026 – February 2027) bring a touch of wonder to dark winter nights with spectacular illuminated sculptures which transform the zoo into a dazzling wonderland of colours. Take in the luminous displays in the evening or opt for the VIP package which combines wildlife encounters with dinner and the nocturnal spectacle.

Admire Edinburgh Zoo's Giant Lanterns

Romantic adventures

Love is in the air! If you’re seeking a romantic Valentine’s Day escape or simply looking for somewhere to spend quality time with loved ones, Ayrshire & Arran might be for you. With its windswept beaches, enchanting coastal castles and inviting hideaways, its siren song is strong. Expect long walks on sandy shores and enriching heritage experiences. Lovers of poetry will be drawn to the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum, where the author of some of the most romantic verses ever penned spent his early life. And if you’ve a keen golfer in your life, why not treat them to stay at one of the region’s world-class golf resorts like Trump Turnberry.

Find your ideal beach in Ayrshire and Arran

Relaxing breaks

If relaxation is more your love language, hatch an escape to Auchrannie Resort & Spa. Switch off with an indulgent treatment at ASPA, Scotland’s first island spa, before savouring the gourmet flavours in one of the resort’s two exceptional restaurants. Outdoors, slow down and embrace island time as you fall under the spell of the island’s winter beauty on woodland trails and hikes over rugged hills.

Discover Auchrannie Resort & Spa