Skiing In Scotland – The Low Down

Skiing in Scotland – the lowdown

If you think this is a joke post or you’re laughing right now then it’s pretty clear you’ve never skied in Scotland. Or if you did and you’re still laughing, then you were winded off, rained in, snowdrift-stranded (get a 4X4!) or got yourself twisted in a snow fence (you know who you are). Whilst these are all possible in Scottish resorts, I’ve also been winded off in Courchevel, rained on in Avoriaz and found myself hugging the fencing in Champoluc. It just so happens that it does seem to happen more often in Scotland, but it doesn’t mean that there isn’t exceptional skiing in Scotland, and if you haven’t tried it then you might be missing out!

Cairngorm
The Cairngorm Mountain is unsurprisingly the centrepiece to the Cairngorms National Park. Cairngorm has snowmaking facilities and boasts Scotland’s only funicular railway. There are twelve lifts in total, leading to 22 runs, the longest being 3.3km. Or if freestyle’s more your thing then there is a terrain park, and plenty of events through the season to get involved with, either as a participant or a spectator. You can get a day ticket for £35 for an adult or £21 for a child.

Glencoe
Glencoe Mountain Resort is Scotland’s oldest ski ‘resort’ and is great for beginner and advanced skiers alike. There are eight lifts in total with 20 runs, including the UK’s steepest black run ‘flypaper’. Day ticket prices vary depending on which lifts you’ll be using, which day you visit and what else you want included, but in general run from £20-£32 for an adult day pass and £15-£20 for a child.

Nevis Range
The Nevis Range is home to the UK’s only mountain gondola and is home to a variety of terrain. With an artificial slope, the area is great for beginner’s even when the snow is elusive. There are twelve lifts and 35 runs in total. Adult day passes are £32 (discount for beginners using fewer lifts), £20 for juniors/seniors and £7.50 for children under 7 years old.

Glenshee
Glenshee is the largest resort (by area) in the UK with four mountains, three valleys, 21 lifts and 36 runs. Lots of snowsports clubs base themselves at Glenshee due to the amount on skiing on offer, it also boasts a terrain park and options for skiers of all abilities. Prices are £30 for an adult and £20 for a child for the day.

Lecht
The Lecht is one of the smaller and quieter resorts in Scotland so is good for young families and beginners. However, there are 15 lifts and 20 runs, with runs to suit all abilities, and a small snowboard fun. Adult day passes are £30, and £20 for a child.
If you hit a good patch in Scotland, you’ll have the most spectacular day with stunning views. Scotland often also manages to extend the ski season into May, so if you’re still pining after the snow then it’s worth checking out the conditions in these resorts after Easter has passed.
And if you do find yourself experiencing some ‘classic’ Scottish skiing in low visibility, cloud and possible drizzle then at least you know you’ll be safe with your Summit goggles. The Expose II and Evolve models have a quick magnetic lens change system and come with both a lens for bright light and one for the low-light and cloud, just right for testing the Scottish snow. Maybe you’ll even need both if the sun decides to make an appearance!
*Prices quoted are for standard full day tickets, beginner, half day, multi-day, senior and other discounts are available at most locations.