As the weather in Scotland turns colder, snow and ice recently hit parts of northern Scotland during the Met Office weather warnings, those who love to ski are looking to strap on their skis and hit the slopes.
2020 and 2021 being slow, mostly snowless years for outdoor ski runs and mountain snow sport Scotland ski resorts, 2022 looks set to be the year that some of the UK’s largest and most popular Scotland-based ski resorts can once again see business pick up.
Thanks to the country’s cold climate and high snow-capped peaks in the Highlands, there is no shortage of ski resorts nestled in and around Scotland’s mountain ranges.
These include renowned ski resorts such as Glenshee Ski Centre, Glencoe Hill Station and Nevis Range by Ben Nevis Hill Station.
But for those looking to cool off on skiing or snowboarding and those completely new to snow sports, there are many dry and indoor slope centers located throughout Scotland that are perfect for beginners, families or those who dread skiing on top of the mountains.
We’ve taken a look at Scotland’s ski resorts and winter sports centers and their Google reviews to round up some of the best places to ski, snowboard and sled in Scotland as the ski season picks up.
However, be sure to check the websites and webcams of all the sites you wish to visit before you go, as the unpredictable and slightly warmer than usual weather in Scotland may see less snowfall than expected in some regions with outdoor ski centers.
Without further ado, here are eight of the best places to ski in Scotland – ranked according to their ratings on Google Reviews.
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Lecht 2090 is one of Scotland’s most popular ski spots, taking its name from its location at 2090 feet above sea level in Aberdeenshire. Although the smallest of Scotland’s five ski resorts, The Lecht Ski Center has received a 4.8-star rating on Google for its stunning location and family-friendly atmosphere. The Lecht 2090, Strathdon, Aberdeenshire, AB36 8YP.
Photo: The Lecht
Nevis Range Mountain Resort, nestled in the peaks surrounding the UK’s highest mountain, Ben Nevis in Fort William, allows visitors to experience all the elements with snow sports on Aonach Mor mountain. Skiing, snowboarding, mountain biking and gondolas are all on offer at the Nevis Range Resort – helping the site earn a 4.6 star Google rating. Nevis Range Mountain Resort, Torlundy, Fort William PH33 6SQ
Photo: Getty Images via Canva Pro
The Lowther Hills Ski Club is the only winter sports center in southern Scotland and is community owned. It has received a 4.6 star rating on Google Reviews thanks to its warm, family atmosphere and dazzling views that unpaid volunteers strive to maintain throughout the year. Although smaller, this winter sports center offers a 140 meter long cable in the village of Leadhills, perfect for beginners, as well as a 400 meter long cable on Lowther Hill for more skiers and snowboarders advances. Lowther Hill Ski Club, 3 California Pl, Wanlockhead, Biggar ML12 6XT
Photo: Ross Dolder
Cairngorm Mountain Resort is another popular destination for those looking for a scenic Scottish location for skiing, snowboarding and sledding. The Cairngorm ski area has received a 4.6 star rating on Google, with visitors praising its 30km of pistes and freestyle terrain offering incredible views of nearby lochs and peaks. Cairngorm Ski Area, Aviemore PH22 1RB
Photo: Getty Images via Canva Pro