Scotland in Winter, an experience like no other!

Scotland is a wonderful country to visit year round. Every season has something that makes it magical. But despite winter being one of the most photogenic times of the year, not enough people head up to the Highlands during our colder months. We really think that’s a shame, so we’ve compiled a few reasons you should visit the Highlands in winter!

1) It’s Cheaper!

As a backpacker aimed tour company, we know the most important factor for a lot of people is cost. Our winter tours are up to 15% off at the moment and a great way to experience the Highlands without breaking the bank. Best of all, you don’t need to go searching around for a promo code or join our newsletter (although we would suggest you do if you want all the best deals before anyone else). You will simply be able to select a tour and it will already have the discount applied! How easy is that.

2) The Landscapes Are Unreal

The beauty of Scotland is in it’s landscapes. The rolling hills, the deep glens, the jagged peaks. All of this combines to make the Scottish Highlands one of the world’s most incredible destinations. Now, put snow onto these dreamy landscapes and you’re left with some of the most awe-inspiring views in the world. We can’t even show you how incredible Scotland is during winter as the photos don’t even do it justice. So the only way you’ll truly understand is by coming for a visit during the winter months!

3) Tighter Knit Groups

One of the hallmarks of a MacBackpackers tour is how much we focus on creating friendships amongst our groups. By keeping things light and silly, all while limiting our tours to 18-39 year olds; we believe that we can create an environment for friendships to blossom and memories to be created. During summer our buses are generally fuller and bigger, which is great in general, but there’s something easier and more relaxed about having just a few people to connect with rather than feeling like a small fish in a big pond. This combined with our cosy Lochbuie Guest House’s fireplace and lounge, has really seen our winter tours become the ultimate friend makers for the year. So whether you’re traveling alone or want to make a few new connections, our winter tours are the perfect way to connect with other backpackers and make friends for life!

4) Quieter Roads

The Scottish Highlands have really exploded in popularity over the last 30 years and we now have an unprecedented amount of visitors every year. While this has been great for Scottish tourism, it’s also meant that the Highlands have become busier and busier. Unforunately, this means that sometimes in the summer certain places aren’t reachable or the parking is full by the time we arrive, but thankfully during winter we’re blessed with quieter roads and the potential to tick off certain spots our buses can’t always reach in the summer.

Bonus Reason: Pair it with a trip to Edinburgh Christmas

If you’re looking for one of the UK’s top Christmas experiences, then you can easily pair the next 3 tours with a stay in Edinburgh so that you can experience the famous Edinburgh Christmas for yourself. Best of all, every person who books a MacBackpackers tour will receive a discount code for 10% off one of 3 award winning Edinburgh Hostels. You can use this on stays at Royal Mile Backpackers, High Street Hostel and Castle Rock Hostel if you book direct.