Winter Walks: 30 ideas in Glasgow, The West and Central Scotland
1. Glenashdale Falls Arran The dramatic double cascade waterfall, Glenashdale Falls, is a highlight on this superb three-mile circular walk.
Scotland’s Gems
Winter Walks: 33 ideas in Tayside, Angus and Fife
1. Kirrie Explorer Kirriemuir Kirrie is small, but packed with its own quirky history – it’s the birthplace of Peter Pan author JM Barrie and AC/DC rock god Bon Scott.
Winter walks: 33 ideas for days out in Aberdeen, the North East & the Highlands and Islands
1. Cullen Harbour to Sandend Moray coast There are wonderful walks in and around the pretty fishing town of Cullen, famed for its dramatic railway viaduct and its traditional creamy haddock soup, Cullen skink.
The North East: Where to stay
Mill of Nethermill, by Pennan Wake to the sound of waves crashing on the shore, enjoy a leisurely breakfast overlooking the bay where dolphins and seals play, or head off to explore caves once used by boot-leggers. Mill of Nethermill – close to the historic village of Pennan, the setting for the classic 1983 film Local Hero – has all this to offer. The mill house and mill, built in 1841 with a stream running by, are the only dwellings in this secluded bay. It has four luxury self-catering cottages, each one renovated in traditional Scots-style with antique furniture and sumptuous tartans. And this five-star holiday destination doesn’t have to be a budget buster. Prices start from £65 per night with a two-night minimum stay (not high season).
Central: Where to stay
Lodge on Loch Lomond, Luss Book yourself a room with a view at this stunning hideaway. Tucked in at the quant village of Luss and overlooking the beautiful waters of Loch Lomond, The Lodge of Loch Lomond is a great base for exploring the central belt. Visit Scotland’s most romantic church and its fabulous grounds or take a boat out from the hotel’s own jetty.
The West: Where to stay
Knockderry House Hotel, Cove Situated on the banks of Loch Long, one of the most magnificent sea lochs of Scotland, this fabulous four-star country house hotel offers a truly Scottish welcome in a romantic setting.
Glasgow: Where to stay
Cathedral House Hotel, Glasgow A 19th-Century Scottish baronial-style hotel, complete with turrets, eight beautifully furnished rooms and a splendid restaurant, whisky bar and beer garden, the Cathedral House Hotel offers a unique stay in a building that looks like it’s straight out of a fairytale. Nestled within a historic quarter of the city, the hotel offers excellent views of Glasgow Cathedral and the Necropolis.
Aberdeen: Where to stay
Apple Apartments, Aberdeen You’ll be living on a prayer with a stay at this boutique property. A converted Victorian church, its artistic stained-glass windows, fabulous period features and comfortably classy and contemporary interior combine to create a heavenly experience. Nice and close to the city’s pubs, clubs and restaurants, too.
Angus: Where to stay
Forbes of Kingennie, outside Dundee It’s only a few miles from Dundee, but enjoys its own lovely countryside setting. The Forbes of Kingennie resort has been owned by the Forbes family since 1995, so you could say they know what they’re doing. It’s the perfect spot for a getaway with woodland and waterside lodges – both are so tranquil. It’s popular with golfers thanks to nearby Carnoustie. There’s even a nine-hole golf course and the young or young-at-heart will enjoy the putting green. We love the relaxed atmosphere at Kingennie. With roaring log fires, lodges with private balconies and choice of restaurants and menus, what’s not to love? If you like pies, you won’t be able to resist the chicken and Omachie gammon pie, topped with parmesan mash (more please!), but make sure you also leave room for a pudding. Come on, it would be a crime to leave without trying honeycomb pavlova with honeycomb ice-cream, wouldn’t it? Dogs are allowed in some lodges – or maybe you’ll just get to know Copper, the resort’s friendly Lab.
Scotland’s Gems: Our interactive map of the top spots to visit
OVER the past few weeks, we've scoured the country for the best locations Scotland has to offer.
Fife: Where to stay
Lomond Hills Hotel, Freuchie, Cupar This converted coaching inn is perfectly situated for exploring the Lomond Hills and Cupar. It has a restaurant, leisure centre with pool – and bags of character. Staff can arrange bike hire and horse riding and they’re really knowledgeable about the local area if you need some tips. Freuchie isn’t far from Falkland and both are great for cheeky weekend breaks away from it all.