While often overlooked in favor of Alpine destinations, Scotland’s ski resorts offer a unique and exhilarating winter sports experience. From the rugged peaks of Glencoe to the expansive slopes of Glenshee, Scotland’s five ski areas cater to all levels of skiers and snowboarders.
Whether you’re a seasoned powder hound or a first-time skier, Scotland’s mountains offer an accessible, affordable, and unforgettable winter playground.
Where to ski in Scotland
- 🏔️ For Freeride Playground and Steepest Runs: Glencoe Mountain
- 🚠 For Gondola Access and Back Corries: Nevis Range Mountain Resort
- ❄️ For Consistent Snow and Varied Terrain: CairnGorm Mountain
- 👨👩👧👦 For Family-Friendly Slopes and Beginners: The Lecht 2090
- 🎿 For Largest Ski Area in Scotland: Glenshee Ski Centre
1. Nevis Range Mountain Resort – Scotland’s newest and most modern ski area
- 🎿 20 km of slopes, 13 lifts
- 🏔 655 m – 1221 m above sea level (altitude difference 566 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 180 km from Inverness airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: beginners, intermediates, advanced, off-piste enthusiasts
- 🏨 Average price/night: £100 in Fort William
Nevis Range is located next to Britain’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis. It offers Scotland’s only mountain gondola, a quad chair, and extensive beginner and advanced terrain.
Features: Beginner area with green and blue runs near the gondola top station, network of red and black runs higher up, acclaimed Boardwise Snowpark, challenging off-piste in the Back Corries
2 restaurants, equipment rental, ski school, 1 terrain park, 1 halfpipe – Fort William nearby for accommodation and après-ski – Accessible by train including overnight sleeper from the south
Facts: Scotland’s newest ski resort, opened in 1989 – Highest skiing up to 1190m – Spectacular views of Ben Nevis and surrounding Highlands – Popular for summer mountain biking as well
Accommodation in Nevis Range
Expensive Hotels:
- Victoria House Bed and Breakfast – Charming B&B offering cozy rooms with en-suite facilities, free Wi-Fi, and a hearty breakfast to start your day of Highland adventures.
- Corran Bunkhouse – Budget-friendly accommodation with shared dormitories, a fully equipped kitchen, and a communal lounge, perfect for backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts.
- The Base Camp Hotel, Nevis Range – Modern hotel featuring comfortable rooms, an on-site restaurant, and easy access to skiing and mountain biking trails.
Medium price category:
- Wild Nurture Eco Luxury Offgrid Log Cabin – Secluded eco-friendly cabin offering a unique off-grid experience with luxurious amenities and stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.
- Wee Neuk – Cozy cottage-style accommodation with a fully equipped kitchen, private garden, and a warm, inviting atmosphere for a relaxing Highland retreat.
Inexpensive hotels:
- Fort William Backpackers – Lively hostel offering affordable dormitory and private rooms, a sociable common area, and helpful staff to assist with local activities and tours.
- Glen Nevis Youth Hostel – Well-equipped hostel with a mix of dormitory and private rooms, self-catering facilities, and an ideal base for exploring the surrounding mountains and trails.
2. Glenshee Ski Centre – Scotland’s largest ski resort in the Highlands
- 🎿 40 km of pisted runs, 22 lifts including chairlifts
- 🏔 650 m – 1068 m above sea level (altitude difference 418 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 120 km from Aberdeen airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: all levels, families, off-piste enthusiasts, ski tourers
- 🏨 Average price/night: £80 in nearby Braemar
Glenshee Ski Centre, known as the “Glen of the Fairies” in Gaelic, is the largest ski area in Scotland. It spans three valleys and four mountains in the Cairngorms National Park, offering diverse terrain for skiers and snowboarders.
Features: 36 runs across 40 km of pisted snow, longest run Glas Maol at 2 km, Sunnyside area for beginners and ski schools, challenging Tiger run for experienced skiers, excellent backcountry skiing options, terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding
3 on-mountain cafes including Cairnwell Café at the summit – Snowmaking facilities for extended winter season – Efficient lift system with modern chairlifts – Closest major ski resort to Edinburgh and Glasgow – Equipment hire and ski lessons available
Facts: Known as “Three Glens” due to its layout – Home to some of Scotland’s most challenging ski slopes – Spectacular Highland scenery – Popular for summer hiking and mountain biking – Ski season typically runs from December to April
Accommodation in Glenshee:
- Dalmunzie Castle Hotel – Majestic castle hotel offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort, featuring elegant rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and picturesque grounds ideal for outdoor activities.
- Strathardle Lodge – Charming country lodge providing a cozy retreat with comfortable rooms, a welcoming bar, and a restaurant serving locally-sourced Scottish cuisine, perfect for those seeking a tranquil Highland experience.
3. Glencoe Mountain Resort – Scotland’s oldest and most scenic ski area in the Highlands
- 🎿 20 km of pisted runs, 8 lifts including a chairlift and poma tows
- 🏔 305 m – 1108 m above sea level (altitude difference 803 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 130 km from Glasgow airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: all levels, off-piste enthusiasts, freestyle skiers and snowboarders, ski tourers
- 🏨 Average price/night: £90 in nearby Glencoe village
Established in 1956 and formerly known as White Corries, the resort is the oldest ski centre in Scotland. Situated on Rannoch Moor, it offers some of the most breathtaking Highland scenery, with views of the iconic Buachaille Etive Mor.
Features: 20 km of varied pistes including the longest and steepest ski run in Scotland, dedicated beginner area with ski school, challenging off-piste options for experienced skiers, terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, extensive snowmaking facilities, on-site microlodges and camping area for ski holidays
Modern base station with equipment hire, ski and snowboard lessons, White Corries Cafe open year-round – Plateau Cafe at mid-mountain open in winter season – Chairlift access for sightseeing and mountain biking in summer – Home to “The Flypaper” – the steepest black run in the UK – Popular for backcountry skiing and ski touring – Excellent snow-holding due to its location in a natural bowl – Often has skiing late into the season, sometimes until May
Facts: Operating for over 60 years – Known for having some of Scotland’s most challenging ski slopes – Spectacular Highland scenery with views over Rannoch Moor – Year-round mountain activity centre offering summer tubing and downhill mountain biking – Free camping available during winter months – Part of the “Snow Roads Scenic Route” through the Cairngorms National Park – Close to the West Highland Way for summer hiking
Accommodation in the area:
Expensive Hotels:
- The Glencoe Inn – Luxurious inn offering stunning views of Loch Leven, featuring stylish rooms, a fine dining restaurant, and a cozy bar perfect for unwinding after a day of Highland exploration.
- Glencoe House – Opulent mansion hotel providing spacious suites with private sitting rooms, in-suite dining options, and breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
- The Isles of Glencoe Hotel – Modern resort hotel boasting a leisure center with an indoor pool, comfortable rooms with loch views, and a restaurant serving locally-sourced cuisine.
Medium price category:
- Loch Leven Hotel & Distillery – Charming hotel with its own distillery, offering cozy rooms, a whisky bar, and a restaurant specializing in fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
- St John's Old Rectory – Elegant bed and breakfast set in a historic rectory, featuring individually decorated rooms, a tranquil garden, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere for a peaceful Highland retreat.
4. Cairngorm Mountain Resort – Scotland’s snow-sure ski resort in the Highlands
- 🎿 30 km of pisted runs, 13 lifts including the funicular railway
- 🏔 655 m – 1245 m above sea level (altitude difference 590 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 50 km from Inverness airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: all levels, families, freestyle enthusiasts, ski tourers
- 🏨 Average price/night: £100 in nearby Aviemore
Cairngorm Mountain, nestled in the Cairngorms National Park, is one of Scotland’s most popular and reliable ski resorts. The ski season typically runs from December to late April, making it a top choice for winter sports enthusiasts in the Scottish Highlands.
Features: 30 km of varied pistes suitable for all abilities, dedicated beginners area with ski schools, challenging red and black runs for experienced skiers, Ptarmigan terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, excellent off-piste and backcountry skiing options including the famous Aladdin’s Couloir
On-site equipment hire and ski lessons – Snowmaking facilities for extended winter season – Home to Scotland’s only funicular railway (returning winter 2024/25) – Highest restaurant in the UK at the Ptarmigan top station – Extensive network of cross-country ski trails in the surrounding area – Popular for ski touring and splitboarding
Facts: Operating for over 60 years – Known for its wooden snow fences to prevent snow blow – Base town of Aviemore offers excellent après-ski options – Nearby Glenmore Lodge is a national outdoor training centre – Lecht Ski Centre and Glenshee Ski Centre within driving distance for a multi-resort ski holiday – Summer activities include hiking, mountain biking, and funicular rides
5. The Lecht Ski Centre 2090 – Scotland’s family-friendly ski centre in the Cairngorms
- 🎿 18 km of pistes, 13 lifts including magic carpets and pomas
- 🏔 637 m – 775 m above sea level (altitude difference 138 m)
- 🛫 Nearest airport: 80 km from Aberdeen airport
- ⛷ Type of skiers: beginners, families, freestyle enthusiasts, snowboarders
- 🏨 Average price/night: £80 in nearby Tomintoul
The Lecht 2090, nestled in the eastern Cairngorms National Park, is Scotland’s most beginner-friendly ski resort. Operating since the 1970s, this compact Highland area has become a favorite among families and those new to skiing and snowboarding.
Features: 18 km of varied pistes with a focus on blue and red runs, excellent learning facilities including sheltered magic carpets, terrain park for freestyle skiing and snowboarding, extensive snowmaking facilities for a reliable winter season, dedicated beginner area adjacent to the modern Day Lodge
Well-equipped Day Lodge with ski hire, snowboard rental, ski school, cafe, and restaurant – Often less crowded than larger Scottish ski resorts – Popular for summer mountain biking and hiking – Excellent value with affordable lift ticket prices – Known for having some of the best nursery slopes and learning facilities in Scotland – Good option for those learning to ski or improving their skills
Facts: Smallest of the five Scottish ski centres but offers a great Highland skiing experience – Home mountain of Olympic freestyle skier Kirsty Muir – Smooth, grassy terrain allows for skiing with minimal snow cover – A939 road passing the resort is one of the highest main roads in the UK – Year-round mountain activity centre offering summer activities too – Part of the “Snow Road” scenic route through the Cairngorms
Accommodation in Lecht:
Expensive hotels:
- Hotel Square – Contemporary hotel offering stylish rooms, a vibrant bar, and a restaurant serving locally-sourced cuisine, perfect for those seeking a modern Highland experience.
- The Smugglers Hostel – Budget-friendly accommodation with a unique history, featuring comfortable dormitories, a well-equipped kitchen, and a cozy common area ideal for socializing with fellow travelers.
Medium price category:
- Richmond Arms Hotel – Traditional inn boasting comfortable rooms, a lively pub with local ales, and a restaurant specializing in hearty Highland fare.
- Argyle Guest House – Charming bed and breakfast offering cozy rooms, a warm welcome, and delicious home-cooked breakfasts to start your day of Highland exploration.
6. When to Go Skiing in Scotland
The ski season in Scotland typically runs from December to late April, with the best snow conditions usually found between January and March. This is when you’ll find excellent opportunities for ski touring and off-piste skiing across Scotland’s five areas.
🏔️ Glencoe, the oldest ski resort in the UK, often boasts some of the best snow thanks to its unique geography. Meanwhile, Cairngorm Mountain near Aviemore is known for reliable snow due to its altitude, making it great for both downhill and Nordic skiing.
🎿 For variety, head to Glenshee – the largest ski resort in Scotland with 22 lifts and 36 runs. It’s a popular destination for skiers and snowboarders of all levels.
🏠 When looking for somewhere to stay, consider Aviemore or Fort William. Both offer easy access to multiple areas and have plenty of accommodation options. Aviemore is perfect for Cairngorm Mountain, while Fort William is close to Nevis Range and Glencoe.
💡 Remember, flexibility is key when skiing in Scotland. Conditions can vary greatly between resorts and change quickly. Always check the latest snow reports before you go, and be prepared to adjust your plans. With the right timing, you can enjoy a unique skiing experience in the beautiful Scottish Highlands!
7. Planning Your Scottish Ski Trip A. Weather and Conditions
🌨️ Season and Conditions: The ski season in Scotland typically runs from December to late April or even early May, depending on snowfall. However, conditions can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key.
🏔️ Resort Highlights:
- Glencoe, the oldest ski resort in Scotland, is a great place for backcountry skiing.
- CairnGorm Mountain, found in Cairngorms National Park, boasts the highest ski lift in Scotland.
- The Nevis Range, near the town of Fort William, offers access to Scotland’s highest peak for excellent ski touring.
🌡️ Weather Tips:
- Scottish weather can change rapidly. Always check the latest forecasts before heading to the slopes.
- Be prepared for a mix of conditions, from perfect powder to icy slopes or even rain.
- Wind can often affect lift operations, so have a backup plan.
💡 Insider Advice: If you’re looking for the best chance of good snow, aim for February or early March. However, remember that even in peak season, conditions can vary greatly between the many ski resorts in Scotland.
8. Transportation to Scottish Ski Resorts 🚗🚌🚂
Driving is the most flexible option, with Glencoe accessible via the A82 and the Cairngorms National Park reachable via the A9. For those preferring public transport, Scottish Citylink operates bus services to many Highland towns near ski resorts, while ScotRail connects major cities to Aviemore and Fort William.
Pro tip: If you’re looking to avoid driving, consider staying in Aviemore or Fort William, which offer good public transport links to nearby resorts. Keep in mind that some resorts, like Glenshee and The Lecht, have limited public transport access and may require arranging a taxi for the final leg of your journey.
Does Scotland have a ski resort?
Yes, Scotland has several ski resorts. The five major ski areas are Glencoe, Nevis Range, Cairngorm Mountain, Glenshee, and The Lecht, offering unique skiing experiences in the Scottish Highlands.
What is the biggest ski resort in Scotland?
Glenshee is the largest ski resort in Scotland. It boasts 40 kilometers of pisted runs and 36 runs served by 22 lifts, spanning three valleys and four mountains.
Which Scottish ski resort has the best snow?
Cairngorm Mountain is often cited as having the most reliable snow conditions due to its high altitude. However, snow conditions in Scotland can be unpredictable, with Glencoe and Nevis Range also known for good snowfall.
How many ski runs are there in Scotland?
Across all five major Scottish ski resorts, there are approximately 130 ski runs in total. These range from gentle nursery slopes to challenging black runs, with additional off-piste opportunities.
Do the different ski areas suit different kinds of skiers?
Yes, the Scottish ski areas cater to various types of skiers. Glencoe and Nevis Range are best for advanced skiers, Cairngorm Mountain and Glenshee suit intermediates, while The Lecht is ideal for beginners and families.
