Take in Scotland’s scenery on a winter break

While the Scottish weather can vary wildly between glorious, golden sunshine and blustery rain at this time of year, the winter months can still be a fantastic time to indulge in a Scottish getaway.

Whether you are in the mood for a city break or like the idea of really getting away from it all in the beautiful countryside, residents of Courier Country are perfectly placed for weekend escapes or longer breaks in Scotland.

With a wonderful range of accommodation from which to choose, you can spoil yourself with a luxury spa break, relax at a country hotel or treat yourself to a self-catering property.

Winter is a truly beautiful time of year to get out and explore the wonderful Scottish countryside. There can be nothing more exhilarating than a winter walk on a crisp, clear winter day.

Even if the weather isn’t perfect, wrap up warm and get out there – a few layers will keep the worst of the winter wind and rain at bay and you will enjoy your cosy hotel room or that roaring fire all the more when you get back in.

Do remember to check the forecast before you head out and always prepare for the worst, as the weather can change quickly.

With the clocks changing, the darker nights drawing in, it can be hard to drag yourself away from the cosiness of the indoors but now is the perfect time to experience Scotland’s great outdoors, at a different time of year.

From adrenaline-induced adventure to sightseeing under the stars – Scotland doesn’t stop when the sun goes down. So rather than give the long nights short shrift, enjoy a night-time adventure and see the country in an entirely new light.

There is something magical about watching the sky as it twinkles with stars and distant planets. Scotland has some of the largest expanses of dark sky in Europe. Pay a visit to Mills Observatory in Dundee – Britain’s first purpose-built public observatory – and witness the wonder for yourself.

While Scotland is famed for its scenic beauty, it can look equally as stunning at night. Famous attractions can look just as impressive lit against the black sky as they do bathed in sunlight. Local landmarks like the iconic Forth Bridge or the new Queensferry Crossing are all perfect for a spot of night-time sightseeing.

Delve into the past on a ghost walk. Just like the capital, Dundee offers Dark Dundee walking tours, with day or night events to tickle any ghoulish tastebuds.

If you are seeking adventure then Perthshire has much to offer adrenaline junkies – you can now experience a blackout bungee jump from Garry Bridge in Killiecrankie with Highland Fling.

Meanwhile, you can swap the car for a kayak and take a relaxing journey through the heart of Perthshire; enjoy the beautiful colours or spot some wildlife.

Once the sun goes down and it’s harder to see, let your other senses guide you as you float across the water. Outdoor Explore hosts bespoke night kayaking tours on Loch of Clunie and Loch Faskally, offering a unique outdoor experience during the winter months.

So the coming of colder and darker days doesn’t mean that you need to stay at home – get out there and enjoy a trip, a weekend away or a relaxing week and discover what Scotland has to offer at this time of year.

See visitscotland.com for more ideas on winter activities.

Pictures: Visitscotland/ Kenny Lam/getty. Clockwise from top: a tranquil Loch Tay in Perthshire with Ben Lawers in the background; a wintry Highland cow; the Forth Bridge at sunset