When thinking of Scotland, the first things that come to mind are the vast meadowlands, the Loch Ness monster, bagpipes and kilts. Continuing on, cities like Edinburgh and Glasgow or even a good glass of whisky pop up as well. In any case, this country in the north of Great Britain is not really associated with snow and winter fun. However, there are a few interesting ski areas in Scotland for all levels of ability, especially in the Highlands.
1. Scotland’s Oldest Ski Area
The Glencoe ski area is the oldest Scottish ski area with an altitude difference of about 800 metres. “The Fly Paper” is the steepest black run in Scotland. In 1996, it even hosted the Speed Skiing World Championship.
In addition to freestyle and freeride fans, beginners are also well catered to in the Glencoe ski area. The ski area consists of a total of 7 km of blue, 10 km of red and 7.3 km of black pistes as well as 8 lifts. Information about the historical past can be found in the visitor centre.
2. Winter Fun on Great Britain’s Highest Mountain
Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis, at 1,343 metres, is located in the Nevis Range ski area. The ski area reaches up to 1,221 m and offers winter sports fans 12 lifts and 20 kilometres of slopes.
Snow-lovers can choose between 7 km of blue, 10 km of red and 3 km of black pistes. Off-piste skiing is also becoming increasingly popular here and Scotland is turning into a real hotspot when it comes to skiing. Younger guests are also well catered to in the children’s area.
3. Scotland’s Largest Ski Area
The largest ski area in Scotland is the Glenshee ski area, which covers three valleys and four mountains. With 21 lifts and 40 kilometres of varied pistes, boredom doesn’t stand a chance here. About 24 km of blue, 10 km of red and 6 km of black slopes bring a lot of variety and fun to the ski area. The ski season lasts from about December to April. The Scots have already discovered their love of skiing here back in the 1930s, and as there were no modern lifts, tractors were used to pull the athletes up the mountain. Nowadays, however, you don’t have to worry about that, and Glenshee even offers a ski school and rental.
4. Fantastic Views over the Vast Landscapes of Scotland
Cairngorm is considered the most beautiful and popular Scottish ski area. This is certainly also due to the comfortable funicular that takes visitors up to the Ptarmigan mountain station. From there, winter sports fans have the opportunity to explore the 32 kilometres of pistes with 11 lifts, the majority of which are blue pistes. However, the unique panoramic view alone makes the trip worthwhile. You will find the highest restaurant in the country here, which invites you to relax. There is even a small museum here. For those who prefer freestyle, The Lecht ski area is just the right place. Here, guests have the opportunity to test themselves in the fun park, on the halfpipe, and prove their skills. With a total of 5 km of blue, 9 km of red and 4 km of black pistes, this ski area is particularly suitable for experts and professionals.
5. Experience Scottish Après Ski
After a long, cold, fun and exhausting day of skiing, what’s the one thing can’t you miss out on? You guessed it: sitting comfortably by the fireplace and letting the day come to a relaxing end. Those who have more energy left over can go to one of the many pubs and try a whisky or two. After all, what’s a holiday in Scotland without a visit to a pub and a glass of whisky?
