February breaks in Scotland

Scotland’s largest national park is incredible at any time of year, but we think the winter months add that extra sparkle you don’t want to miss. If you get lucky with the weather, you can explore the slopes and runs of three of Scotland’s fantastic ski centres – Cairngorm Mountain, The Lecht 2090, and Glenshee. Ski and snowboard your way through February with a range of slopes for all levels, hire facilities, and lessons, all with unmatched views to admire too.

With quiet, remote spots, limited light pollution and darker nights, the Cairngorms is an ideal place to stargaze and witness the Northern Lights. Enjoy an evening stroll with Strathspey Storywalks around Aviemore to stargaze and learn more about Scotland’s Gaelic and Pictish stories from centuries ago. Head to Loch Insh where you can enjoy a stargazing evening that introduces you to the night sky in the inside dome, before heading outdoors to spot the constellations, stars and planets you just learned about.

With the national park covering 4,528 km², it’s no surprise that the area is home to dozens of quaint towns and villages. From Braemar, Ballater and Boat of Garten, to Angus Glens, Glenshee and Nethybridge, there are plenty of places to explore and stay in. The park is also not short on world-class attractions and family-friendly experiences, including the Highland Wildlife Park, Landmark Forest Adventure Park, an array of ancient castles, and thrilling outdoor activities.

If there’s one guaranteed experience on your trip to Scotland, it is the locals’ patriotism when it comes to Scotland competing in sports. February sees the ever-popular Six Nations (5 February – 13 March 2027) grace our screens and local pubs once again. Whether you watch the fixtures in person at Scottish Gas Murrayfield Stadium, or you enjoy a day out in Edinburgh at one of the many bars or pubs that stream the matches, you’ll be able to experience the true sportsmanship and support that comes with Scottish rugby.

Elsewhere in Edinburgh, you can enjoy a range of events to suit the whole family’s tastes. Did you know you can join in a ceilidh evening every Tuesday? The Edinburgh Ceilidh Club hosts a jovial night out at Summerhall each week. With everyone welcome, from first timers to the more experienced ceilidh dancers, it’s a must do!

The festive period may be over, but you can still enjoy a twinkling light show at Edinburgh Zoo’s Giant Lanterns (November 2026 – February 2027) which is here until the end of February. Make a day of it with the VIP package that lets you enjoy a day of wildlife encounters, an evening meal, and a ticket to the magical evening event.

Did someone say love is in the air? Whether you like to make an occasion of Valentine’s Day each year, or you just deserve some quality time away with your better half, let Ayrshire & Arran be your escape this February. Immerse yourself in the wellness and nature of the area with a wealth of things to do on your doorstep. From coastal castles and prestigious golf courses to long stretches of sandy shores and a land steeped in culture and history, you’ll have plenty of things to get up to on your getaway.

If you’d rather rest up, relax, and rejuvenate, head to Auchrannie Resort & Spa. This 4-star hotel on the Isle of Arran has everything you need for a spectacular time away. Treat yourself to restoring treatments and a tranquil atmosphere in The Aspa, Scotland’s first island spa, or tuck into delicious locally sourced food in the two onsite restaurants. Arran’s landscapes and scenery are not to missed, with walks and trails taking you across the island and along beaches, you don’t get more relaxing than this.