Winter in the Scottish Highlands is a season of enchantment. With snow-dusted mountains, frosty forests, and crisp, cold air, winter is the perfect time to explore the region's beauty.
The Loch Ness area offers a wealth of winter activities for those looking to embrace the colder season. Whether you’re seeking adventure, a cosy dram, or a peaceful walk through stunning landscapes, there are winter activities for everyone to enjoy at Loch Ness.
Get Out On The Mountain
If you're an avid skier or snowboarder, or even just a keen beginner looking to try something new and exciting, Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park is a winter sports haven. About a forty minute drive from Inverness, the Cairngorm Mountain resort is a hub for anyone who enjoys being up in the hills during the winter months. There are slopes available for all levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, though complete beginners are advised to book lessons with one of the resort's partnered ski schools. You can hire equipment if you don't have your own, and be sure to layer up so you stay nice and warm throughout the day.
Not a fan of skiing? The resort boasts breathtaking views as well as a café and bar where you can sit back and relax with a book whilst your loved ones are out on the slopes. There's also a Mountain Shop where you can pick up unique gifts and tokens to remind you of your day, with local goods such as gin, soaps, marmalades and artwork on offer. After a day on the mountain, head down into Aviemore village for a warming meal, or head out towards Drumnadrochit and enjoy a dram by the fire in the Loch Ness Inn's award-winning restaurant.
Distilleries in the Highlands
Speaking of drams, winter calls for something warming, and there’s no better way to embrace the season than with a visit to one of the Highlands’ renowned distilleries. Loch Ness and its surrounding areas are home to some fantastic options for whisky enthusiasts, and you are spoiled for choice on what to drink.
Glen Ord Distillery, located in Muir of Ord on the Black Isle, has been producing fantastic single malt whisky since 1838. You can book a variety of different tours and experiences, such as the Singleton Pairing Experience through which you can enjoy five incredible Singleton whiskies alongside five incredible canapés that showcase the best of Highland produce.
Just a twenty minute drive south of Inverness, Tomatin Distillery is a hidden gem producing incredible whisky as well as bourbon, sherry, and uniquely finished whiskies. Their Legacy whisky was recently awarded Gold by the IWSC, as well as receiving 98 points and winning the best of the best Trophy for this luscious single malt whisky. You can enjoy a dram of Tomatin whisky at the Loch Ness Inn's Brewery Bar, though if you want to try more options in person you can book a tour at the distillery where you will gain insight into their centuries-old traditions of whisky making, as well as getting the chance to try options which are only available in the distillery.
If you are a fan of both whisky and beer, then Uilebheist Distillery and Brewery in Inverness is a great place to visit. Calling itself a 'brewstillery', Uilebheist crafts its whiskies and beers with great care, taking inspiration from local tales of monsters and myths. Book a tour and be taken on a tasting experience right on the banks of the River Ness.
For anyone wanting to day trip out to the Isle of Skye, then visiting Talisker distillery is a must. This is the oldest working distillery on the Isle, having been in operation since 1830 by the shore in Carbost, and it has stunning views over the water. Whilst on Skye, you should also visit the Isle of Raasay distillery, which produces both whisky and gin and offers exciting, immersive tours.
Winter Walks
The Highlands' natural beauty doesn't disappear in the winter - it transforms. Here are some must-visit locations for scenic walks and outdoor activities that are much quieter at this time of year, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in nature.
Wrap up warm and tackle a section of the stunning Loch Ness 360 Trail, which is a circular trail around the loch. With panoramic views, tranquil forests, and perhaps even a glimpse of the elusive Nessie, it's a peaceful way to connect with nature. Driving towards Fort William from Drumnadrochit, the Caledonian Canal locks in Fort Augustus are a fascinating sight, and offer a picturesque walk in the winter as the surrounding hills are dusted in snow.
Plodda Falls is a majestic waterfall located in Tomich, about a thirty minute drive from Drumnadrochit. This spot is particularly striking in winter, with rainfall causing the water to fall dramatically and ice formations adding a magical touch to the cascading waters. The surrounding woodland trails offer quiet walks in serene surroundings. Glen Affric is also located close to this area, and is one of Scotland's most stunning glens. The ancient Caledonian pine forests and still lochs are hauntingly beautiful in the frost and snow, providing a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle.
Another great reason to get out and about during this time of year is that winter is an excellent time for spotting wildlife in the Highlands. Keep an eye out for red deer grazing in the hills, golden eagles soaring overhead, and the elusive pine marten in forested areas. For those visiting lochs or staying by the sea, seals can often be seen along the shoreline, and otters are more active during the quieter winter months.
Whether you want to spend your days strolling, skiing, or indulging in local spirits whilst in the Highlands, there's no better way to wind down than retreating to the warmth of a cosy inn. The Loch Ness Inn in Drumnadrochit is the perfect spot to relax by the fire, enjoy a hearty meal, and perhaps sample some local whisky and beers. Winter evenings in the Highlands are long and lend themselves to storytelling, games, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet, so be sure to visit the Inn and get to know the locals - we would love to have you.