Winter private tours of the Scottish Highlands
For much of the year, visitors arrive in the Scottish Highlands expecting long daylight hours and dramatic landscapes. But for those looking for a different travel experience, the winter months of November, February and March can offer something quite distinctive – still the spectacular scenery, but with the winter weather completely changing perspectives.
If you are specifically looking for a private tour of the Scottish Highlands during November, February and March, it does, however, require a practical approach. Touring during these months brings weather challenges and variable daylight. But for those travelling with an adventurous spirit and a bit of flexibility, visiting during these months will not disappoint.
Touring is done in a comfortable private vehicle, for your own private group of up to 3 persons, with a Highlands historian on hand throughout. Along with the vehicle and the guide, you will most likely have these sites largely to yourselves.
Why I focus on November, February and March
... and skip December and January!
1. Winter daylight hours
In December and January, daylight in the Highlands shrinks to around six to seven hours, with dusk often setting in by 4pm. By contrast, November brings around eight to nine hours of light, while February and March give us nine to twelve hours.
2. Winter weather and local closures
The peak of midwinter can often bring the worst weather patterns (though it has to be pointed out that November, February and March can still experience significant winter weather conditions). Additionally, many local attractions, cafes and accommodation providers close over the Christmas and midwinter weeks.
3. Winter break
Running private tours continuously from spring through to late autumn is a busy commitment and after a season of touring, December and January offer me time to rest – and maybe even a chance to hit the ski slopes if I am lucky!
Winter private tours and pricing
During November, February and March, the three private tour options listed below can be adapted for winter touring. They focus on mainland roads or use land-bridge connections (such as the Isle of Skye bridge). While they follow their core advertised routes, daily schedules are adapted with earlier or later starts and finishes to suit weather conditions and seasonal attraction opening times.
To reflect the shorter winter daylight hours, winter bookings (November, February and March) are priced 10% below the core season rate:
- 3 Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Private Tour
- 5 Day Isle of Skye and Highlands Private Tour
- And, see the insight article — Discovering the Far North and Highlands
What about the Outer Hebrides, Orkney and Shetland?
I am often asked why I do not offer winter tours to the Outer Hebrides, Orkney, or Shetland. Even in the summer months, ferry sailings can occasionally suffer weather cancellations that affect island tours. However, from October onwards that risk increases significantly due to seasonal Atlantic low-pressure systems and heavy sea swells across the Minch and North Sea. A disruption on an island tour during these months can result in significant touring issues. For that reason, I schedule island tours (excluding the Isle of Skye) during the summer window:
- Outer Hebrides Tours — operating from May to September
- Orkney and Shetland Tours — operating from April to September
If a winter private tour in November, February or March suits your plans, I would be glad to show you a quieter side of the Highlands. To enquire about a winter private tour, simply complete a Tour Enquiry Form with your preferred tour and travel dates.