Although April through October is considered to be the official ‘tourist season’ in Scotland, the winter and early spring months hold a range of adventurous and scenic opportunities for those willing to brave the weather. Because there are smaller numbers of tourists in the area, this time of year can be a great time to experience all of Scotland’s beauty without the crowds. 

Especially after hiking through snow covered peaks or window shopping through frosted glass, snuggling up next to a roaring fire with a warm tea can feel like bliss. So if you, like many people, need a holiday after the Holidays, we have compiled 3 different winter getaway locations for you to consider, no matter the time of year. Complete with where to stay and things to do, this guide will introduce you to Scotland’s west coast and help you plan your winter escape.

1. Where to stay: Oban Bay Hotel

Escape this winter to Oban Bay. Here you can experience the beautiful views of the Isles while having a foot on the mainland. You can watch ferries drift through the glassy waters through the windows of the sunroom. Here you can fully appreciate the wintry landscape over a warm cup of tea or nightcap. Used as a gateway to the isles during the warmer months, this is the perfect spot to plan your winter getaway. https://www.crerarhotels.com/oban-bay-hotel/ 

Location: Corran Esplanade, Oban, Argyll

What to do:

McCaigs Tower and Battery Hill

The landmark structure watches over the Oban Bay, facing the Atlantic Islands and provides a beautiful view. The gardens inside the unfinished tower are still well maintained and make the perfect place for a family picnic or afternoon stroll. With distant snow-covered hills reflecting from the smooth bay water below, we promise the views are worth it, especially if you can catch the sunset over the water to the west which illuminates the water with orange and pinks on clear days. 

Tour Oban Distillery

What better way to warm up on a cold winter day than with a dram of single malt whisky? Oban Distillery is one of the oldest, yet smallest, single malt whisky distilleries. Join a tour to learn more about the process of whisky making or book a tasting class to experience all of the different notes lying beneath the amber-coloured spirit. If you don’t have enough time to fit in an experience, stop by the shop to choose from a selection of years and makes. https://www.obanwhisky.com/distillery

Try out the Thermal Experiences

Oban Bay Hotel spa hosts a variety of treatments available to guests and locals alike. Although daunting, we suggest embracing the chill in the air by booking an exclusive thermal experience. Located on our sea view deck, you and your guest can utilise the Canadian hot tub, Swedish oak barrel sauna, steam and relaxation rooms. The combination of cool air and warm thermal experiences is ensured to help you relax and reset this winter with stunning views all around. Be sure to book in advance to secure a time slot in this luxurious experience.

https://www.crerarhotels.com/oban-bay-hotel/spa/thermal-experience/ 

2. Where to stay: Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa

Just across the water from Oban Bay, Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa sits a mere 15 minute walk from the Craignure Ferry Terminal. If you are looking for a remote escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, this is the perfect place for a wild winter experience. This 4-star spa hotel has a lovely sea view complementing the Driftwood spa. Warm up your winter by spending time on the Wilderness Deck complete with a hot tub and sauna, this private escape is all yours. https://www.crerarhotels.com/isle-of-mull-hotel-spa/ 

Location: Craignure, Isle of Mull 

What to do:

Observe the Wildlife 

The Isle of Mull has earned the nickname ‘Eagle Island’ as it is the home of several white-tailed and golden eagles. Along with a plethora of other Arctic favouring birds, there is also the chance of running into some furrier island dwellers such as otters and deer. Wildlife tours run year round from a host of local guides both on land and sea if your adventurous side is calling you to explore the water of the Hebrides. You might even get lucky and catch the glimpse of a pod of harbor porpoises or a rare mink whale.

Go to Wildlife Film School 

Speaking of wildlife, if you’re looking for something to break up your dreary winter season that is a bit outside the box, why not go to film school? It might sound too good to be true but Wild Island Film School offers courses year round for those interested in learning more about nature film-making with the option of a 1 day quick course or 3 day master course. No experience or equipment is necessary with drinks and snacks provided, this is a really great opportunity to shake things up and experience the Scottish winter to the fullest. https://www.wildislandfilmschool.co.uk/  

Complete the Quest of Mull and Iona

The peaceful Isles of Mull and Iona were not always that way, and in fact have a rich history of adventure and exploration. This Quest was created to encourage families to explore not only the sites and hills of the Isles but also to learn the history. Whether you are visiting with the family, with a partner or by yourself, this quest is interactive for all ages and can be completed as quickly or slowly as you like. When you have finished, you can turn in your filled-out Quest form to receive a special certificate and prize from the Craignure Visitor Information Centre just across from the Isle of Mull Hotel and Spa where you can finish your day with a hearty meal and cosy bed.  https://mullandionaquest.co.uk/ 

3. Where to stay: Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa

With influences gathered from the surrounding outdoors, Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa host comfortable rooms and a peat-fueled fireplace for you to warm up next to this winter. Use our spa hotel as your base to explore Scotland’s West Coast while enjoying all of the amenities there including the AA-Rosette-awarded Cladach Mòr Bistro and Loch View Bar. https://www.crerarhotels.com/loch-fyne-hotel-spa/ 

Location: Inveraray, Argyll

What to do:

Ardkinglas Woodland Garden

Staying active in the winter can be daunting, but the whisper of snow also can make adventures quite magical. This garden is home to the Gruffalo and Fairy Trails, where you can find fairy houses, swings, and peaking views of the castle-like Ardkinglas House along the way. This magical setting offers the perfect wintery walk, where you can be apart of the beautiful nature around you and let your imagination run wild. Perfect for a family day out, the gardens welcome all. https://www.visitscotland.com/info/see-do/ardkinglas-woodland-garden-gruffalo-fairy-trail-p249971 

Reset and Rejuvenate at the Shore Spa

The Shore Spa has a wide array of treatments to choose from to help ease and help you relax on your winter escape. Choose from different specialty massages, facials, and more all using Scotland-made, seaweed based, ishga brand products. Swim in the 15-metre swimming pool or shake the winter chill with some heat therapy in the steam room. If you need a bit more time to fully relax, choose from a tailored spa day or even a spa break. Book your appointment today. https://www.crerarhotels.com/loch-fyne-hotel-spa/spa/

As you can tell, winter weather or not, adventure is built into Scotland’s DNA. The West Coast shines with a variety of options for both adventure and relaxation lovers alike. This is a sign – you do not have to wait until it gets warm to plan your next trip. Getaway now while crowds are low and the desire to get out of the house is high. The West Coast is calling.