The Highlands is a truly magical place for a winter break in Scotland. The air is cold and crisp and the mountains are covered in fresh white snow. In winter, temperatures hover around 4°C and often dip below freezing. There are so many winter activities in Scotland and things to do to keep you moving and warm you up.
Winter Walks
You can’t beat a refreshing winter walk to blow the cobwebs away. In Inverness and Loch Ness and we are spoilt for choice with routes and trails to follow. From city walks, to loch side views, to the rugged wilderness of the Highlands. There’s something for walkers of all ages and abilities.
Snow-Shoeing
Winter walks with a difference! Snow-shoeing is a fantastic way to get out on the mountains wearing special shoes, which make it easier to walk on the deep snow. See the breath-taking scenery and winter wildlife of the Highlands like never before. There are many guided walks to join, where footwear and walking poles are provided.
Skiing and Snowboarding
Scotland’s snow-covered mountains create the perfect conditions for snow sports, which are incredibly popular outdoor activities in the Highlands. There are several ski resorts in Scotland, offering activities for all levels of skill and experience. The closest one to Inverness is the Cairngorm Mountain, about one hour’s drive away.
Curling
Curling is a popular winter sport in Scotland. It’s a team game similar to bowls and shuffleboard, where players slide stones over ice, towards a target. In Inverness, the curling season runs during the colder months, from September each year to the following March. The Inverness Ice Centre runs a series of classes and sessions for beginners and seasoned curlers.
Dog Sledding
Dog Sledding was traditionally a way to transport people and supplies over the snow or ice. Today, in Scotland it has become a fun and exhilarating way to travel. Imagine whooshing over the grass or snow on a sled pulled by dogs, surrounded by spectacular Highland scenery.
Fat Biking
Fat biking is similar to mountain biking, except fat bikes have oversized tyres designed for unstable terrain such as snow and mud. Perfect for the winter weather in the Highlands. So, hire a fat bike from a specialist bicycle hire shop in Inverness and Loch Ness, and head for adventure in the Scottish mountains.
Whatever your winter holiday sport, from a leisurely city stroll, to a crazy fat biking adventure in the mountains, the important thing is to get out there and explore! Winter activities in Scotland are the best way to get warmed up on a cold, crisp day!
To find a walk or activity, go to our Things To Do page!