5 Fantastic Christmas and Winter Break Ideas in Scotland

• Best for: Fans of Islay's famous peaty malt whiskies and vibrant island culture.
• Getting there: Islay is most easily accessed from the port of Kennacraig by ferry. 

Things to see and do

With nine distilleries to visit, you'll no doubt find a favourite peaty dram to warm your cockles on Islay. You could visit Bowmore Distillery, situated in the heart of the village of the same name, or get up close to the stills of Lagavulin. Islay also boasts some lovely beaches, perfect for a winter stroll.

Unwind in a cosy fire-lit pub where you might hear some live traditional music. If you visit during November, experience the Islay Sessions, a small winter festival featuring incredible folk musicians.

Eating out

Treat yourself to some fine Islay produce, including tasty fresh seafood. At the restaurant in the Port Charlotte Hotel, you can enjoy a sumptuous meal in elegant surroundings, or tuck into a bar supper in the relaxed atmosphere of the bar and conservatory.

Stay

The island offers a great range of places to stay, from traditional hotels to luxury eco-lodges with saunas and hot tubs.

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Islay

• Best for: Anyone who enjoys listening to live music, exploring museums and soaking up a vibrant city atmosphere.
• Getting there: Glasgow is served by three international airports with regular flights to cities in the UK and Europe. It's also very well served by train and bus routes.

Things to see and do

Even in the dreariest of winter months, this dynamic city really shines. Explore the handsome city centre and admire Glasgow's striking architecture, such as The Lighthouse or the beautiful Kelvingrove Art Gallery & Museum. Take a stroll and discover the area's quirky shops, cool bars and restaurants. In January, discover the world-famous Celtic Connections, celebrating traditional, folk and roots music.

Eating out

Glasgow's dining scene is thriving. Experience a Glasgow institution and book a table at the Ubiquitous Chip, or opt for one of the trendy restaurants in the Finnieston area of the city.

Stay

From smart boutique hotels to sleek serviced apartments, Glasgow has a huge range of places to stay.

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Glasgow

• Best for: Those who want to enjoy a scenic coastal break and see amazing night time wonders.
• Getting there: From Inverness, it's easy to drive to Moray. 

Things to see and do

The Highland region of Moray Speyside is perfect for a quiet winter escape filled with bracing coastal walks along beaches and paths. Explore charming historic fishing villages, take walks along unspoilt stretches of sand and try to spot the resident dolphins frolicking close to the shore. Get a real flavour of Speyside by following the River Spey to one of the region's whisky distilleries. If you're lucky enough to get clear night skies and an aurora forecast, head to Lossiemouth East Beach or Bow Fiddle Rock at Portknockie, two places where the Northern Lights have been spotted at in recent years.

Eating out

The coastline boasts some fine traditional pubs at the likes of Findhorn, or dine at The Salt Cellar in Lossiemouth. You could also choose the cheery Mosset Tavern in Forres.

Stay

From smart boutique hotels to sleek serviced apartments, Glasgow has a huge range of places to stay.

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• Best for: Those with a passion for the great outdoors (who also like the finer things in life)!
• Getting there: The Torridon is accessible by road. From Inverness, the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 30 mins. 

Things to see and do

The Torridon offers activities year-round. In the winter months, there's a programme of winter activities including archery, sea kayaking, canoeing, rock climbing, and guided walks and mountain bike rides. The surrounding landscape is truly wild and rugged, making for some very exhilarating hiking.

Eating out

The Torridon is a slice of foodie heaven, with Bo & Muc using seasonal and fresh produce and the 1887 Restaurant serving fine, award-winning cuisine with exquisitely matched wines. And should the weather conditions affect the activities in the outdoors, then why not relax in a comfy armchair and enjoy a delicious afternoon tea, complete with a warming pot of The Torridon's signature blend?

Stay

Combine your passion for the natural environment with a good dollop of winter indulgence on a break to The Torridon, a luxury estate retreat in the beautiful north west Highlands. 

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• Best for: Those looking to experience unforgettable dark skies and traditional Scottish culture.
• Getting there: Travelling by car to either Ayrshire or Dumfries & Galloway is straightforward. You can also travel by train from Glasgow to Dumfries or Edinburgh to Lockerbie.

Things to see and do

A winter break in Scotland is a fantastic time to soak up the splendour of the night sky. One of the best places to go stargazing in Scotland is the Galloway Forest Park in south west Scotland. Another superb location for stargazing is the town of Moffat in Dumfries & Galloway as it’s a designated Dark Sky Town.

Robert Burns was born in Ayrshire and every year you’ll find events celebrating his life throughout the month of January. 

Eating out

Tuck into tasty local produce at eateries including Loch Arthur Farm Shop Café near Dumfries, the Kirkmichael Arms near Maybole and The Coo Shed near Alloway.

Stay

Choose from hotels, B&Bs, self-catering cottages and much more across both regions.

Find accommodation in Ayrshire & Arran or take a look at Dumfries & Galloway accommodation

Dark Sky Parks & Stargazing in Scotland