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Scottish winter breaks

Last year saw the return of severe wintry weather for many parts of the UK, Evesham included. While struggling to work through snow and ice is never enjoyable, the scenic beauty such weather can bring is a sight to behold. And for the ultimate in beautiful winter conditions you need look no further than Scotland.

If you’re thinking of getting away from it all, either over Christmas or in the New Year, then a winter break in Scotland could be just the tonic for your over-worked nerves. Here are five suggestions for unforgettable Scottish holidays:

1. Walking in the Borders

Buy yourself a pair of Hi-Tec boots and book a cottage or hotel in the Border region to experience some of the best walking in the UK. With snowy fields or a crisp frost underfoot, the rolling hills of the Borders are achingly beautiful at this time of year. With public house hospitality and roaring fires readily available at every stop, seeing Scotland at its wintry finest is easier than ever when ambling through this scenic part of the country.

2. Skiing in the Highlands

It may be time to buy a new pair of snow boots and get the car ready for a trip north as Scotland offers five outstanding ski resorts. The most famous of these is Aviemore and with its resident ski school, you can brush up on the techniques before heading onto the slopes of the Cairngorms. With hotels and lodges available at reasonable prices and superb skiing when the snow arrives, a ski trip to Scotland can be a great way to reignite your passion for the slopes.

3. The Malt Whisky Trail

Single malt whisky is one of Scotland’s most important exports and this superb trail is a great way to get to know the different flavours and varieties of this iconic drink a little more intimately. The warming properties of a tot of whisky on a wintry day are all the more appreciated with a touch of frost on the ground. The trail around the towns and villages of east Scotland is a joy for any whisky fan; just remember to ask somebody else to do the driving!

4. Mountain biking

Taking to the hills in the winter may seem like madness, but armed with a thick, wind-proof North Face jacket to protect you from the wintry weather, headgear and a sense of adventure, Scotland offers some of the best mountain biking for the serious cyclist, or gentler rides for the whole family. Whether you are cycling around the sights of Glasgow, freewheeling down the rolling hills of the Borders, or enjoying the magnificent scenery and seclusion of the Trossachs, Scotland has a biking adventure to suit everyone.

5. Sightseeing in Edinburgh

Whether you want to enjoy its magisterial setting, take in a show, walk its famed streets, or are fortunate enough to be in the city for Hogmanay, Edinburgh is a city well worth a visit during the winter months. From outstanding shopping, to some of the finest architecture in northern Europe, Edinburgh is an outstanding city. With quality hotel rooms available from around £40 per night, seeing the Scottish capital in its wintry glory is now better value than ever.

Whether you are heading to the Highlands in search of snow and skiing, wandering gently through the crispy frost of the borders, or enjoying a hot toddy at one of the many distilleries around the country, you are sure to enjoy what Scotland has to offer.

As long as you have the right winter kit, are imbued with a sense of adventure, and know how to enjoy the finer things in life, visiting Scotland this winter will be a holiday you will never forget.