Usually, the best time to visit the Scottish Highlands is from May to September. This marks the spring-to-autumn season as the weather is drier and warmer throughout the period. From the mesmerising landscapes and plateaus, historical battlefields and the spellbinding beauty of the lakes, the Highlands really feel out of place, almost like magic.
A major plus of the place is the transport infrastructure that makes it an attractive destination for tourism. It is also the reason why many travellers flock towards the destination during peak season to spend quality vacations together with friends and families. As the trend of group travel continues to expand, hiring a minibus is becoming a more convenient and budget-friendly transport solution for groups of families and friends. With that out of the way, let’s break down the ideal time to enjoy the exciting Scottish Highlands.
The Climate
Before you pick your travel dates, do a little bit of homework, so you know what you're dealing with. Here’s a list of factors to keep in mind before you travel.
The weather changes fast; you can experience sunlight, wind, and rain, all in one day.
- Summer: Daylight hours are very long in summer, sometimes up to 18 hours in June.
- Winter: During winter, days are short. With only 7 hours of daylight at times, which can make your travel a little difficult, given the chilling weather itself.
- Rain: The possibility of rain is all year round, so always keep your raincoats in check.
Monthly Average Weather Conditions
Month | Avg. High | Avg. Low | Avg. Daylight | General Feel |
January | 5°C (41°F) | 0°C (32°F) | 7 Hours | Snowy and chilly. |
February | 6°C (43°F) | 0°C (32°F) | 9 Hours | Great for those who enjoy winter landscapes. |
March | 8°C (46°F) | 1°C (34°F) | 12 Hours | The weather starts to change, with the possibility of snow. |
April | 11°C (52°F) | 3°C (37°F) | 14 Hours | Breezy feels like spring blooms. The skies are clearer. |
May | 14°C (57°F) | 5°C (41°F) | 16 Hours | All-around month. Best for a visit. |
June | 16°C (61°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 18 Hours | Perfect long days for hiking. |
July | 18°C (64°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 17 Hours | Warmest month but peak season. |
August | 17°C (63°F) | 10°C (50°F) | 15 Hours | Busier months, which means more crowds. |
September | 15°C (59°F) | 8°C (46°F) | 13 Hours | Crisp autumn air with vintage vibes. |
October | 11°C (52°F) | 5°C (41°F) | 10 Hours | Misty and somber atmosphere. |
November | 8°C (46°F) | 2°C (36°F) | 8 Hours | Cosy weather. |
December | 6°C (43°F) | 0°C (32°F) | 7 Hours | Snowy peaks and festive feels. |
Road Trips & Hiking
Best Months: May, June, September.
With long days comes less rushing; you can easily plan out your day and have room for some extra activities. You also get easy access to roads, and the weather is more predictable. The trail conditions are safer, and there is a low risk of sudden weather changes.
On the contrary, you should look out for July and August, as the roads get busier and prices are higher. November to February features harsh weather conditions and extreme cold with the possibility of snow, making the roads slippery and increasing the risk of landsliding.
Photography
Best Months: April, May, September, October
For people who love photography or are professional photographers, this is the best time to click some pictures. Not to mention, the light is clear, and you get sharp contrasts and warm tones with the beautiful landscapes of the highlands. Seriously, we should mention the serenity of the morning mists, which is worth experiencing.
For those who enjoy travelling and taking pictures in snowy weather, the opportunity largely depends on accessibility and travel conditions.
Avoiding Crowds
Best Months: Late April, May, September
Want to enjoy a quiet and subtle trip? The Scottish Highlands are indeed the best option. But, given your preference, you can also visit the region during the quieter months with less activity. With that said, another plus is that you can easily get your hotel bookings without the stress of the good places being full.
According to research, the 3rd quarter of the year, July to September, records the highest volume of tourism day visits, around 1,326,000. While this can be the ideal weather to visit, it can still hinder your enjoyment.
Budget-Friendly Travel
Best months: November to March (excluding Christmas & New Year)
For those who enjoy the snow peaks can avail the cheapest trip to the highlands from November to March. But the problem here is harsh weather conditions. If the roads are accessible and you can cope with the weather, this is a great time to enjoy the place without being too heavy on your pocket.
If you are aiming for a wholesome experience overall, opt for months like May, June or September. You get a good mix of all the good elements, like weather, daylight, and easy access to roads with beautiful views. The real answer depends on your priorities; if you prefer travelling on a budget, a quiet trip or winter snow, the Highlands is still a great option.
