There’s nothing like getting cosy in front of a fireplace with a good book (or maybe even a dram of whisky) after bracing the elements in Scotland’s spectacular nature. This warm, fuzzy feeling is such a key part of Scottish life in the colder months of autumn and winter that the Scots even have their own word for it – Coorie. Luckily, there are plenty of ways for visitors to Scotland during winter to join in – from enjoying a bowl of Cullen Skink (a hearty Scottish fish soup) after a walk in the hills to feeling the heat in one of Scotland’s many wild saunas after taking an icy dip in the sea.
Night time wonders in Scotland’s First Dark Sky Sanctuary
When the sun goes down in Scotland the show is far from over, as the country boasts many places with little to no light pollution, making it one of the best destinations for stargazing and even a chance to spot the Northern Lights. The Isle of Rum, a small island off the west coast with only 40 full-time residents, has been named Scotland’s first Dark Sky Sanctuary by the International Dark-Sky Association, alongside only one other location in Europe and 20 worldwide. The locals’ commitment to preserving the dark skies on their island not only means that visitors can enjoy some of the most spectacular views of the cosmos, but also helps to protect many nocturnal species of wildlife on Rum, including the Manx shearwater, a rare seabird which thrives in the dark.
Stargazers are spoilt for choice in Scotland – from the Galloway Forest Park in the South to Shetland in the far North.
The healing power of nature
Forest bathing – mindfully engaging with the sights, sounds and sensations of the natural environment, helps instil a sense of calm and relaxation. For visitors looking for a wellbeing experience like no other, Scotland’s magical forests and woodlands provide the perfect setting for an immersive ‘bath’ to rejuvenate the mind, body and soul. Scotland has an abundance of serene locations to choose from, where visitors have an opportunity to wrap up warm, be at one with nature and embrace the restorative benefits.
Dell Woods, Abernethy Nature Reserve – Cairngorms National Park
Dell Woods is part of Abernethy Forest, the largest remnant of the ancient native pinewoods that once covered the foothills of the Cairngorms. Alive with the chatter of birds and with a fresh hint of Scots pine resin in the air, it is a perfect location for nature lovers to unwind. Nearby, RSPB Loch Garten’s Nature Centre is a must-visit. At dusk, the arrival of Wild Greylag and Pink-footed Geese on the loch is an exhilarating display in autumn and winter.
The Pass of Killiecrankie, Perthshire
Perthshire, known as ‘Scotland’s Big Tree Country’, is home to acres of the country’s most spectacular trees and woodlands. Three miles north of Pitlochry, The Pass of Killiecrankie is a wooded gorge where the river Garry flows beneath a beautiful array of tree-lined slopes. The site has a Visitor Centre, and a 1.5 km path leading to a picturesque green footbridge, offering visitors a tranquil and scenic experience, particularly in autumn.
Glentrool, Galloway Forest Park
At the heart of Galloway Forest Park, Glentrool is an ideal spot to breathe and just “be” in nature. The rushing waters of Buchan Burn and the Waters of Minnoch lead mindful visitors through the woods to some stunning views of the Galloway Hills. Guided forest bathing experiences and other activities to help visitors reconnect with nature can be booked with Way of the Wild. For anyone seeking a few more thrills in order to switch off, Glentrool is also one of the world-famous 7stanes mountain bike centres, with a range of trails for novice and experienced riders.
Cosy corners in Scotland’s cities
From quaint tearooms with garden views to browsing books around an open log fire, visitors in any of Scotland’s eight cities never need to look far for a place to coorie in.
Edinburgh – The Beach House, located on the promenade at Portobello beach, offers stunning sea views and simple, delicious, where possible organic, locally sourced food. It’s the perfect place to stop for a cuppa after a walk along the sandy beach or some cold water therapy.
Glasgow – Òran Mór (Gaelic for “Big Song”), a welcoming pub housed in a former church, right next to the beautiful Glasgow Botanic Gardens, makes a great pit stop on a chilly day. Visitors can grab a drink or bite in this charming space, take in the Robert Burns-inspired paintings by Scottish artist Nichol Wheatley and enjoy the live music sets (on offer six nights a week).
Aberdeen – Foodstory Café in the centre of Aberdeen is an independent cafe, built out of recycled materials, serving veggie/plant-based food – from delicious bowls of porridge to hearty soups and a mouth-watering cake selection. For maximum cosiness they have introduced weekly knitting nights.
Inverness – Leakey’s, Scotland’s largest second-hand bookshop, is a booklover’s dream. It’s located in a former Gaelic church – the pulpit and stained-glass windows can still be seen– and houses thousands of books on a huge range of subjects, all stacked and piled around a log-burning hearth.
Dundee – Just a stone’s throw from the V&A Dundee and the city’s waterfront, Blend Coffee Lounge awaits with great coffee and pastries, twinkling fairy lights and comfy couches to sink into. On the last Wednesday of every month , the café is hosting a community cinema night.
Perth – Branklyn Garden is a haven of peace and tranquillity within walking distance of Perth City Centre. The tearoom is situated in the part of the main house that was once the library and overlooks the garden. For top cosiness levels, the freshly baked scones paired with a fine tea or the freshly ground National Trust for Scotland coffee blend, all served from their collection of beautiful china, are the perfect choice. Bonus points: the teapots are kept warm by patterned tea cosies handcrafted by one of their very talented team members.
Stirling – Visitors curious enough to search the winding back streets at the base of the castle hill in Stirling’s historic Old Town will be rewarded with excellent coffee and sweet treats at Unorthodox Roasters. And afterwards, next door, Europa Music, Scotland’s largest vinyl record store, will beckon them in for a browse.
Dunfermline – Prost Coffee is all about taking the time to slow down and celebrate the little things. It is located in the beautiful ground floor of 16th century Abbot House, fondly known as the ‘pink hoose’, and within its walled garden. Visitors will be in for a treat with coffee from Scottish roasting company Gatehouse Coffee Roasters, homemade cakes, wholesome toasties and tasty soup.
More events to look forward to in the coming months: www.visitscotland.com/things-to-do/events
Main photo: The cosy Clachaig Inn, Glencoe. Photo: David N Anderson.