A Scottish city has been named the “best place to visit” in the country this December.
With less than two weeks to go until the festive season properly begins, people all over Scotland have already started hunkering down for the coldest months. However, the start of winter is a great time to do a bit of travelling.
Earlier this week, experts at UK Hidden Gems published a list of the “10 best places to visit in Scotland in December”. Topping the list, and the only city to feature, is Aberdeen.
Also known as the Granite City, Aberdeen is known for its annual Christmas Village. Featuring everything from a festive fairground to an ice rink, it has something for the entire family.
Aberdeen’s Christmas Village also features the popular Curated in the Quad festive market, featuring stalls selling arts, crafts, clothing, jewellery, and more. A wide selection of festive food and drink is also available.
UK Hidden Gems wrote: “Aberdeen is perfect for nature lovers, offering easy access to the breathtaking Cairngorms National Park and the famous Dolphin Spotting tours at the harbour. History buffs will love exploring its ancient castles, like Dunnottar Castle, perched dramatically on cliffs overlooking the sea.
“The city also has a vibrant arts scene, with galleries, festivals, and live music. Whether you’re wandering through the historic Old Aberdeen or enjoying a meal of fresh, locally caught seafood, Aberdeen offers a mix of adventure, culture, and tranquillity that feels like stepping into a Scottish fairytale.”
Meanwhile, following behind as the second best place in Scotland to visit this December, according to UK Hidden Gems, is Fort William. Often referred to as a gateway to Ben Nevis, the Highlands town is nestled along the shores of Loch Linnhe.
The experts said: “The town itself has a cosy atmosphere, with traditional pubs, local shops, and plenty of spots to try delicious Scottish dishes. Whether you’re exploring Glen Nevis, taking in the majestic waterfalls, or simply soaking up the peaceful beauty of the Highlands, Fort William is a must-visit destination that feels like a gateway to another world.”
Elsewhere, the experts named the Cairngorms National Park as number three on their list. The biggest national park in the UK, there are a huge variety of scenic walking trails in the Cairngorms that are perfect for a frosty winter hike.
Rounding out the top five on the list are the Isle of Skye and Loch Ness, in fourth and fifth place respectively. The former was praised by UK Hidden Gems for its “dramatic landscapes” and “peaceful atmosphere”, while the experts singled out Loch Ness’ “mysterious beauty”.
More information about the 10 best places to visit in Scotland in December can be found on the UK Hidden Gems website.
The 10 best places to visit in Scotland in December
- Aberdeen
- Fort William
- Cairngorms National Park
- Isle of Skye
- Loch Ness
- Stirling
- Glencoe
- Aviemore
- Orkney Islands
- Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park
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