9 Reasons to choose Scotland for your February break

Turn up the volume this February by going to a trad music event! Celtic Connections is set to take centre-stage this February with a program jam-packed full of events ranging from music and talks to storytelling and more.

Catch up with some old friends and family over a few drinks and keep warm as you avoid the winter chill by checking out some of the best traditional pubs that Scotland has to offer.

• Get festive at the Jolly Judge in Edinburgh, with a roaring log fire and a lively atmosphere.
• Make yourself at home at the Sheep Heid Inn as you tuck into some good old hearty pub grub.
• Take a trip to Sloans, Glasgow’s oldest bar and restaurant and marvel at the pubs’ beautiful furnishings.
• Head to The Stein Inn on Skye as you enjoy picturesque views on the island’s Waternish Peninsula.
• Look no further than The Drovers Inn in Loch Lomond, a favourite with Rob Roy who was often a regular here.
• Visit the award-winning Clachaig Inn in Glencoe, a favourite amongst climbers and hikers, and coorie in for the night at one of its three separate bars.
• Nestled amongst the brightly painted houses of Tobermory, head to Mishnish on the Isle of Mull – the perfect pit stop for the hungry traveller.

Fancy brushing up on your knowledge of Scotland’s rich history and culture? Have a fun day out with the whole family and explore some of Scotland’s best-loved museums and exciting exhibitions popping up throughout the month. With it being the UK’s first and only UNESCO City of Design, Dundee takes great pride in its ever-changing arts scene with lots of cool exhibitions taking place at the V&A Dundee and the McManus Gallery including the new 'A Weather Eye' exhibition, capturing the power of the shifting Scottish weather.

Although many animals hibernate throughout the winter months, nature lovers will be pleased to know that there are still plenty of opportunities to get up close with Scotland’s wildlife. This February why not take a trip to Islay? Renowned for its wild geese flocking to the island from October to April, the short winter days make it much easier to view morning and evening roosting sites.

Catch a glimpse of the Arctic hare on Scotland’s snow-capped mountains and, if weather conditions become more extreme, you might be lucky enough to see them make their way down the mountainsides, making it easier to spot them. South Scotland also becomes a winter paradise for thousands of swans, geese and ducks escaping the harsh winter weather from Greenland to bask in Scotland’s much warmer climate. If you’re on the lookout for red deer, the Highlands is the place to be! February is the perfect month to see these magnificent animals make their way down from the snowy mountains to lower ground to graze.

There’s snow place like Scotland when it comes to skiing and snowboarding! The country boasts five mountain snowsports centres, which are perfect places to hone your skills, whether you're a beginner or a pro! The Scottish weather can be very unpredictable at times, so we advise that you keep up to date on all the latest news, ski conditions and weather forecasts, and regularly check the official websites of the resorts for details of opening times and closures.

No matter how much you love winter and snow, by February most of us are longing for the warmer weather and lighter nights. However, before we wave goodbye to winter for another year, the annual Scottish Snowdrop Festival is the perfect way to round the winter season off! Enjoy these beautiful blooms at The Royal Botanic Garden in Edinburgh, Cambo Estate in Fife, Dunrobin Castle in the Highlands, and Logan Botanic Garden in Dumfries & Galloway. In fact, why not hit the road and see a few of our favourite gardens in all their winter glory?

Gin lovers will truly be spoiled for choice, from old favourites such as the classic Gin & Tonic or get a taste of some other alternatives – you never know it might be your new favourite tipple! Meet the makers and try your hand at making your very own concoction, learn more about the different brands, and most importantly take some of the bottles home with you to try out with different mixers.

Valentine’s Day is just around the corner so why not do something a little different in Scotland? Why not climb up Arthur’s Seat in Edinburgh while you take in the beautiful panoramic views of the city with your beloved? Head to the top just before dawn or dusk where you will be blown away by the glorious sunrise and sunset.

Or take a romantic boat cruise down the “bonnie, bonnie banks” of Loch Lomond and explore a whole host of uninhabited islands. Although the weather might be chilly, Scotland’s best beaches are a joy to visit at any time of year. Visit Calgary Bay and take your date along its white sandy beaches as you watch the skies of the Isle of Mull be engulfed by the beautiful sunset.

If you really want to pull out all the stops, splash out at a luxury 5-star hotel. Fairmont, St Andrews, Cameron House on Loch Lomond and The Balmoral Hotel are just a handful of hotels renowned for their luxurious offerings where you can enjoy the finer things in life. Treat yourselves to a spa break at a glamorous establishment, all of which offer a wide selection of spa treatments and breathtaking views.

A day at the rugby is a great way to spend a day in the capital! With the Six Nations kicking off in February, there really is no better time to visit the city. Come along and cheer on the teams as they play thrilling matches at Murrayfield Stadium throughout the tournament. Whatever the result – win, lose or draw, the overall buzz and excitement from the game and the fans will keep you on your toes for the next 80 minutes!

Check the Scottish Rugby website for ticket information