Wondering what to do in Scotland in December, January and February? Get festive and cosy up warm in the festive months with some of these great suggestions.
Naturally awe-inspiring
It may be cold but Scotland in winter is truly enchanting. Amid a frost-bitten landscape of snowy mountains, glens, forests and steel-grey lochs, discover a winter wonderland.
Head up north for some truly incredible scenery. From the towering peaks of Ben Nevis to the majestic beauty of Glencoe and the Great Glen, walking in these iconic landscapes dusted in snow is simply spellbinding. In the Cairngorms National Park you might have some close-up encounters with mountain hare, ptarmigan, red grouse and red deer.
Embrace the outdoors
The night sky is at its most spectacular in winter when stargazers can enjoy crystal-clear visibility thanks to low temperatures. Pay a visit to Galloway Forest Park, Britain's first Dark Sky Park, Tay Forest Park and Rannoch Moor for one of the brightest, starriest skies you've ever seen. Scotland is also the best place in the UK to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights or Aurora Borealis. The best places to spot it are the Caithness coast and Shetland and Orkney isles from November to January.
Experience unmissable events
The Christmas period is full of cheer, sparkle and the merriest of traditions. The cities host week-long festivals throughout December, culminating in Hogmanay where the whole country welcomes in the New Year with whisky, fireworks and ceilidh dancing long into the wee hours. Edinburgh is the biggest of the Hogmanay celebrations, but the smaller Comrie Flambeaux and Stonehaven Fireballs Ceremony also kick-off January in spectacular style. Looking for something different? Head to the annual Stromness Yule Log Competition on Hogmanay. Running since the 1930's, watch the 'Northenders' and 'Soothenders' of Stromness battle it out in a classic game of tug o' war. The festive spirit continues elsewhere throughout the month with the Viking fire festival of Up Helly Aa in Shetland, and across the country on Burns Night, there are lots of birthday celebrations for our National Bard including Big Burns Supper and Burns and Beyond.
So... start planning!
Take a look at our travel information and find the perfect accommodation for your next break in Scotland.