Get active in the Highlands this winter

An active winter holiday in the Highlands

There’s nothing like an active winter holiday to get the blood pumping. Yes, the weather may be colder in winter, but as long as you have the right clothing and equipment, you’ll be fine getting out and about. It’s easy to get around the Highlands using your car or public transport. Plus, we have lots of ways to get warm and cosy at the Kingsmills Hotel when you get back! So, book a winter break with us in the Scottish Highlands and take a look at all the active things you can get up to this winter.

Winter walking

Based here at the Kingsmills Hotel in Inverness, you have a wide choice of walking routes amongst the glorious Highland scenery. Whether you choose a city walk or a countryside trail, the winter scenes will be spectacular. We have picked out some of our favourite winter strolls here. So wrap up warm, choose your route and set out on an adventure!

Running and cycling

If you want to pick up the pace, there are many brilliant walking and cycling routes. You could follow the River Ness and Caledonian Canal for a peaceful route along the waterways. Long-distance trails such as the Great Glen Way, South Loch Ness Trail and Loch Ness 360° offer good paths and amazing scenery around Loch Ness. You don’t have to complete the whole trail, just choose a section or two. Or for mountain bikers, the Forestry Commission has mountain biking trail centres, such as Learnie Red Rocks, with colour-graded trails for different levels of ability.

Skiing and snowboarding

The Cairngorm Mountain snow sports centre is less than an hour’s drive from Inverness. Here, you can access a range of fantastic winter activities, including skiing and snowboarding on real snow. This season will run from 22nd December 2023. And don’t worry if you haven’t got skis with you, equipment hire is available at the centre. You will need suitable clothing, however.

Curling and skating

Inverness Ice Centre is an indoor ice sport centre, where you can enjoy an ice skating section or try your hand at the winter team sport, curling. Skate hire is available at the centre, and there are skating aids for children, so everyone can have a go. Over Christmas, you can even skate with Santa on selected dates!

Winter attractions

Lots of attractions and activities operate all year round, so you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. From boat cruises with Loch Ness by Jacobite to exploring ancient history at the Clava Cairns. Take a look at what’s open this winter.

So, think of winter weather as “great” weather. As the old quote goes, “There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing.” It’s tempting to curl up and hide from the colder, darker days, but don’t forgo the benefits of fresh Highland air! Pack a warm coat, waterproof jacket, jumper or fleece and sturdy footwear. Use our packing list to ensure you have all the essentials. Then you’ll be ready to embrace the winter weather and enjoy it. Book your winter break in Inverness today and get out there!