Festive Holiday in the Highlands: Christmas Activities & Lodges
When you think of the perfect Christmas, you may be forgiven for your first thoughts being of Lapland. But if you speak to anybody who grew up in Scotland in the 70’s and 80’s, Aviemore was the place to go. We can tell you that the Highlands still holds its own in 2024! Let us tell you why a festive holiday in the Highlands: Christmas activities & lodges, from reindeer visits and cosy cafés to Christmas markets and lodge stays, is the perfect choice.
Think snow-capped mountains boasting Scotland’s only free-range reindeer herd, cosy cafes, fine dining restaurants, local crafts and unique gifts all coming together to ensure a real festive treat. Then heading back to your lodge for a soak in the hot tub, watching the stars.
Let us share some of our favourite places that highlight why festive holiday in the Highlands: Christmas activities & lodges are the perfect festive holiday destination…
Firstly, we recommend securing tickets for the Strathspey Steam Railway in Aviemore. Santa, hot chocolate, and mince pies, all enjoyed on a steam train that sedately makes its way through the Cairngorms. It is hard to leave without feeling all warm, fuzzy and festive.
You can also enjoy a trip to see the real festive stars of the show. Santa’s reindeer at The Cairngorm Reindeer Centre. The hill trip is the perfect way to see these magical Christmas creatures in their natural environment. If you are really lucky you will see them at their best on a snowy hillside, tucking into some feed for their busy season ahead.
With the Highlands being the perfect festive holiday destination, you would expect lots of little towns and villages to explore and it doesn’t disappoint. You find gems such as The Highland Chocolatier in Grandtully. This is a real festive wonderland. Local crafts, Christmas gift boxes and their free visitor centre, all topped off by a warm comforting hot chocolate. It really is the perfect Christmas indulgence.
We do love something a little bit different and a festive visit to the Highland Safari and Red Deer Centre ticks all the boxes. Take part in a Christmas treasure hunt on their 500-metre interactive Discovery Trail. Write a letter to Santa and enter the festive colouring competition in the decorated marquee. Finally, head on over to their Winter Grotto where Santa will be waiting with a gift for little ones.
If you are feeling more energetic you can wrap up warm and head out on one of the many local walking or biking trails that wind their way through the Highlands. This is the perfect way to blow away the cobwebs. We have lots of suggestions based on the area of your lodge. Even sharing walks from the door.
The Highlands has an extra magical feel at night, so why not head out in the dark skies and just enjoy the unpolluted view of the night sky and star gazing, you might even get to see the northern lights. It is a truly amazing sight.
Before you head home, pick one of the many havens for food lovers. They all recognise the importance of locally sourced, seasonal and homemade food. We recommend Crieff Food Company, Balliefurth Farm Shop, Dalmore Farm and Rothiemurchus Farm Shop for starters.
If you haven’t booked your festive break yet, have a look at our lodges now and discover that the Highlands really is the perfect festive holiday destination. It sets the scene for those special festive moments with your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions for Festive Highlands
When is the best time to visit the Highlands for a festive break?
Most festive activities run from late November through to early January. December is the peak month for Christmas markets, Santa experiences and snowy mountain views.
Is there usually snow in the Highlands at Christmas?
Snow can never be guaranteed, but the Cairngorms are one of the most reliable places in the UK for winter conditions. Even without snow, the landscapes, dark skies and festive atmosphere still feel magical.
What Christmas activities can families enjoy in the Highlands?
Families love the Strathspey Steam Railway Santa Train, the Cairngorm Reindeer Centre hill trips, Highland Safaris’ Winter Grotto, and the many local Christmas markets and craft shops.
Do I need to book festive activities in advance?
Absolutely. Popular experiences such as the Santa Train and reindeer hill trips sell out quickly, so booking early is recommended.
Can I see the Northern Lights during my stay in the Scottish Highlands?
It’s possible. The Highlands’ dark skies give you a good chance on clear nights, especially during periods of strong solar activity.