Adventures in Scotland

Seizing the Daylight: Embracing Winter “Wellness” in the Scottish Highlands

Tips on how to cope with short daylight hours –

As winter cloaks the Highlands in frost and the days grow short, venturing outside for exercise might feel like a tall order. But with a wee bit of planning and a hearty spirit, you can not only keep your fitness ticking along but also revel in the unique beauty of winter in Scotland.

Rise and Shine

The trick to making the most of winter’s fleeting daylight? Shift your routine to the morning. Greet the day with a brisk walk along a frost-dusted path, a jog through the glens, or even a bit of yoga by the window before heading out. Morning movement doesn’t just get the blood pumping; it also sets you up to soak in those precious hours of Highland daylight.

Over the past 10 years, many yogi have moved to the area so it’s not difficult now to find a yoga class at virtually any time of the day on any day of the week. If you plan to come up to Boat of Garten on one of our trips, or just to stay at the Lodge, please do ask if you’re interested in any group yoga stretches to ease off after a day of activity.

Dress for the Season

There’s no such thing as bad weather, only unsuitable clothing (even Billy Connolly was known to subscribe to this point of view) —sound advice in these parts! Layer up with a snug thermal base, a mid-layer for warmth, and a weatherproof outer shell to fend off the Highland chill and the occasional rain. With the right kit, even a cold wind feels invigorating, and you’ll be ready to enjoy the crisp air on your adventures.

Try Your Hand at Winter Sports

Winter’s shorter days are perfect for discovering seasonal activities. From skiing in the Cairngorms to a gentle skate on a local ice rink (there’s a community ice rink in Aviemore which has been up and running for a couple of years now and there’s also the imitation ice at Loch Insh), there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy the colder months while getting a cracking workout. Plus, there’s nothing quite like the thrill of carving through snow with the mountains as your backdrop. There’s also a lot more to winter sports than the traditional skiing and ice skating. Winter hiking is popular too.

Make Lunchtime Count

Don’t let daylight pass unnoticed—grab your coat and take a quick stroll during lunch. Even a ten-minute wander can do wonders for your mood. Why not rope in a pal or colleague for a wee walk? It’s a grand way to catch up and get some fresh air, even if the skies are a bit dreich.

Weekend Escapes

The Highlands come into their own at the weekends. Pack a flask, don your boots, and head out to explore your favourite hills or forest trails. Whether it’s a family ramble, a cycle along scenic routes, or a hike with friends, these little excursions will make the most of the light and help banish the winter blues.

Adventures After Dark

Once night falls, don’t let it hold you back. Embrace the magic of the Highlands by taking to the trails after dark. With a good head torch and reflective gear, you can enjoy a quiet run or a moonlit walk beneath a sky brimming with stars. There’s something quite special about the calm of winter nights, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the northern lights.

Running in the snow; running in the dark – both have a special kind of magic. It concentrates the silence somehow and makes you feel like the only person in the world. But above all, the most special thing about the longer nights is that it gives a better opportunity to see the northern lights.

Turn Winter into an Opportunity

By tweaking your exercise routine and embracing the season, winter can become a time for adventure and well-being. Get out there, breathe in the crisp air, and discover the joy of staying active in this beautiful season. Here in the Highlands, winter isn’t just something to endure—it’s something to celebrate.

Seize the daylight, savour the stillness, and make your winter workouts a source of happiness and vitality. Go on, give it a go—you might just love it!