Chill out, unwind and cosy up this winter
Find serenity on the west coast
Islay and Jura
Islay is world-famous for winter-migrating birds. Just like humans, they stay a short time to rest, enjoy the islands then once recharged continue their journey. Islay has excellent beaches, from Saligo bay on the Atlantic coast to the Singing Sands in the south, which are offer amazing peace and tranquility. And of course, the brilliant range of distilleries are perfect for warming cockles on a brisk winter's day. For rural bliss and winter walks a trip to Machir Bay is a must.
A day trip on Mull and Iona
Get out of dodge for the day with a delightful trip over to Mull and Iona. Mull's lochs, glens and bright sandy bays provide a sense of calm and a snapshot of how beautiful Scotland really is. A short ferry ride and you will be in Iona - the burial place of early Scottish Kings including MacBeth and home to white beaches and clear turquoise waters. The abbey offers guided tours but be sure to book this in advance as limits on the number of visitors per tour have been introduced to keep everyone safe.
Harris
Arguably one of the best beaches in the world, Luskentyre is just as magnificent when you're wrapped up warm with your wellies on in winter as it is in summer when it looks like a tropical paradise. The unspoilt landscapes and panoramic seaviews create an otherworldly atmosphere, which is a million miles away from city life.
Enjoy a little self-renaissance
Portavadie Spa & Leisure
Set amongst beautiful lochs and rolling hills, Portavadie is a peaceful haven perfect for a pampering break on the west coast. Sail in with CalMac and let their team of professional therapists revive your mind and body back to state of constant chill.
ASPA at the Auchrannie Resort, Arran
Indulge in island relaxation on an elegant escape to Arran. This idyllic spot is ideal to forget about the stresses and strains of modern life. The ASPA is based within the Auchrannie Resort - home of 4-star accommodation, restaurants, a shop, leisure clubs and an outdoor adventure centre. It's time well spent.
PureGray Spa at The Machrie, Islay
Sail over to Islay and return with your head in the clouds after a visit to PureGray. This small sanctuary nestled within the Machrie Hotel and Golf Links provides a wide range of treatments that boost your well-being. With beautiful views and aromatherapy options, a stay here is a joy to all your senses.
Walking in a winter wonderland
Bridgend Woods, Islay
Situated in the centre of this beautiful 'horse-shoe' shaped island, Bridgend woods is the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon with the kids. It can get a bit muddy so bring your wellies, and if the kids have their bikes bring them too - the roads are forest track so great for cycling.
There are lots of inroads, so no real defined route although there is good parking in Islay House Square or beside Bridgend Hotel (tea and cakes anyone?), so either of these places are a great place to start your winter woodland adventure.
Don't forget to... find the old rope swings which have been enjoyed by local children for years.
Cill an Ailein, Mull
This short, circular woodland walk is perfect for a quick stroll with the dog on a frosty winter's day. The terrain is easy being forest track and trail, so bring the kids and their bikes too!
Start your walk at the Aros Forestry Commission offices just north of Salen Bay. Drive past the offices and park up beside the picnic area.
Don't forget to... visit the ancient graveyard, Cill an Ailein, where you'll find graves dating back to the Middle Ages.
Balnakailly Woodland, Bute
The Balnakailly Loop is a short woodland walk around the north of the beautiful island of Bute. Walk the loop anti-clockwise from the Rhubodach - Colintraive ferry crossing by heading north through the gate, across the field and take the stile into the woodland.
This 4-mile round walk is the perfect way to spend a chilly winter's afternoon - take in the nature and wildlife, as well as spectacular views of the Kyles of Bute.
Don't forget to... take a diversion just after the turning circle, to the right of the sign posts through some uneasy ground to the WW2 bunker where you will see the mesmerising views of the Kyles of Bute.
