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Make the Most of Your Winter Adventure in the Scottish Highlands

Stubble & Co
October 29, 2024
Tips & Ideas, Travel

Our mission to Do More and seek out adventure- even in the winter, has led us to an exciting partnership with WildTrax. We're committed to inspiring you to get out there, stay active, and embrace the wild—no matter the season. We’ll be sharing our top tips for navigating the Highlands, driving a Land Rover through the rugged Scottish Highlands to must-see stops, and the perfect adventure-ready bags to bring along. Make the most of your Highland adventure and embrace the magic of the unforgettable landscapes.

Top tips for driving a land rover through the Highlands

If you're someone who loves adventure and exploring new places, there's no better way to embrace the season than exploring the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands in a Land Rover. Here are some essential tips for driving through this breathtaking but challenging terrain.

A shot of the inside of a Land Rover, including the steering wheel.

A car boot that is open, with two duffel bags inside.

Get to know your land Rover's features

Before setting off on your road trip, take some time to get familiar with your Land Rover’s controls. From terrain response modes to hill descent control, these features are built to handle off-road adventures, so knowing when and how to use them will make a big difference.

Stay aware of your surroundings

When driving in the Highlands, it’s crucial to stay aware and cautious of the region's unique challenges. Roads are often shared with free-roaming animals, including the famous Highland Cows- which can appear suddenly. Additionally, cyclists frequent these roads, and drivers must allow at least 1.5 metres of space when overtaking, or face penalties like fines and points on their licence. Be mindful of windy roads and sharp corners, as blind rises are common. While Land Rovers are built for tough terrain, it's best to approach unpredictable conditions slowly and steadily.

A view of a road with mountains and a blue sky in the Scottish Highlands.

Two women on a hike down a mountain in Scotland with backpacks.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED

When heading out on an adventure, preparation is always key. Pack the essentials like a first aid kit, extra layers, and plenty of snacks and water. Remote areas can often mean long stretches without services, so it’s also important to keep an eye on your fuel and top up before you venture off. You never know what surprises the terrain or weather might bring, so being over-prepared will ensure you’re ready for anything.

Respect fellow adventurers

Respecting other road users is essential in the Scottish Highlands, passing places enhance safety on narrow roads. Look for blue signs marking these spots to pull over and let oncoming traffic pass. Remember to check your mirrors, as these areas can be narrow. Make sure you always drive on the left and stay as far left as possible on single-lane roads. Winter in the Highlands is a wonderland waiting to be discovered, but it's essential to stay safe and smart as you navigate this area.

our top 5 experiences

in the scottish highlands

Click here

1. The Isle of Skye

A winter road trip to the Isle of Skye offers adventure and stunning, crowd-free landscapes. With snow-dusted mountains and dramatic coastlines, the island is perfect for scenic drives and exploring iconic spots like the Quiraing and Fairy Pools. Explore snowy mountains, go for a hike, spot wildlife, and taste some local delicacies. Afterward, relax in cosy inns or enjoy a whisky at Talisker Distillery. An ideal blend of rugged beauty and peaceful escape! Full Isle of Skye guide here.

2. Explore Glencoe’s Peaks

Drive through the dramatic landscapes of Glencoe, where frosty mountains, dramatic valleys, and frozen waterfalls create the perfect opportunity to explore more this Winter. Hike or snowshoe along scenic trails like the Devil’s Staircase for breathtaking views, or if you’re feeling up for a challenge head to The Three Sisters!

3. Winter Wildlife Watching

Winter wildlife watching in the Scottish Highlands is an exciting adventure for nature lovers. You can spot red deer roaming the snowy hills and golden eagles above- the quieter season makes it easier to see these animals in places like Glen Affric and the Black Isle. Whether you're hiking through the stunning scenery or capturing epic shots, winter in the Highlands is a great opportunity to connect with wildlife and nature!

A man with a backpack on his back standing and looking out at a view of a lake.

A land rover driving down a country road in the Scottish Highlands.

Lewis' Highland Gems

Venture beyond the usual Highlands sights with insider tips from Lewis, our very own Stubble & Co Scotsman! This section will take you through some of the region’s best-kept secrets and secluded spots. Ready to see Scotland off the beaten path?

01.

Luskentyre Beach

If you make it to the Outer Hebrides then Luskentyre beach is a must. Sweeping curves of pristine white sand and crystal-clear turquoise waters set against a backdrop of rolling dunes and mountains, Luskentyre Beach in Harris could easily be mistaken for a Caribbean paradise – until you dip your toes in the baltic Scottish waters.
02.

Talisker Bay

Tucked away down a single-track road near the famous distillery, Talisker Bay remains one of Skye's best-kept secrets. This dramatic beach, flanked by soaring cliffs and marked by distinctive black sand and thundering waves, offers raw Highland beauty - it remains remarkably quiet even in peak season. Watch out for the cows!
03.

Achmelvich Bay

The coastline north of Lochinver boasts pristine white sand beaches with turquoise waters - special shout-out to Achmelvich Bay!

Bags to take with you on your Highland Adventure

1. Kit Bag 65L

With a spacious 65L capacity, the Kit Bag can hold all the extra layers, gear, and equipment you need to tackle cold-weather activities. Made from 100% recycled, waterproof materials, the Kit Bag withstands the wet and unpredictable winter weather of the Highlands, keeping everything inside dry and secure. The detachable backpack straps give you versatility to carry it hands-free or utilise this as a duffel when you’re unpacking from place to place.

a studio shot of the front of an All Black Kit Bag 65L

The Kit Bag 65L

€210

2. The Roll Top 20L

The Roll Top Backpack is perfect for your daytime adventures, whether it's a walk through frosty forests or a scenic Highland day trip. The adjustable roll-top design is perfectly versatile for any activity, you can increase its capacity when needed. Its compact size and lightweight build make it easy to carry for hours, and the breathable back panel and padded straps ensure comfort even over longer treks.

A studio shot of the bottle pocket in the side bottle pocket on a Roll Top 20L in Midnight Blue

The Roll Top 20L

€145

3. The Packable Backpack

The Packable Backpack is designed to keep up with your plans, no matter how last-minute they are. This would be our go-to for any trip where you want to throw your essentials in a lightweight bag, and explore hands free. Weighing just 0.3kg and folding down easily, it’s perfect for those unexpected winter hikes, village excursions, or wildlife watching. Despite its lightweight design, it’s crafted with durable materials to withstand the elements. Once you’re done with your adventure, it packs down small enough to fit in your larger travel bag—ideal for longer trips when you want an extra bag on hand without the added weight.

Stubble Essentials

Small, functional bags like a Crossbody, Tech Bag or our Packables are ideal companions for any adventure. Keep your essentials secure and accessible with our range of accessories. From navigating trails to capturing the perfect view, these compact bags simplify your journey, letting you focus on the experience.

Explore the Range

5.0 stars from 277 reviews

The Packable Backpack

€55
Ultra Lightweight
New

5.0 stars from 16 reviews

Tech Bag

€55
Recycled
4.9 stars from 430 reviews

The Crossbody

€75
Recycled
5.0 stars from 282 reviews

The Packable Sling

€45
Ultra Lightweight
4.8 stars from 153 reviews

The Packable Tote

€55
Ultra Lightweight

GET READY FOR THE SCOTTISH HIGHLANDS!

Winter in the Highlands is an adventure like no other, and with a WildTrax rental and our bags- we’re excited to help you make the most of it. With the right tips, gear, and hidden spots to explore, you're set for an unforgettable journey .Pack your bags, hit the road, and experience everything the Highlands have to offer!

WildTrax FAQS

Where are WildTrax based?

WildTrax HQ is a short 10 minute drive from Inverness airport. All collections and returns must take place there. Unfortunately, they are unable to offer collection or return at alternative locations.
How can I book a WildTrax vehicle?

You can book your WildTrax experience online. If you are looking to book a Lodge & Landy combination deal, please get in touch with WildTrax.
Are WildTrax open all year round?

From March – October they hire their vehicles out as Expedition Hire (with rooftop tent & camping kit).
In November, December, January and February due to the cold weather and the increased chance of snow, which can come with treacherous driving conditions, take advantage of the Lodge and Landy combo deal, offering hire of the Land Rover simply as a vehicle (not with camping kit) combined with a stay in their lodges.
Are the vehicles automatic or manual?

Discovery 3's and the New Defender 110 are available for those wishing to book automatic options. All of the other Defenders are manual.
How long can I rent for?

WildTrax offer Bookings for 1-2 Nights, 3-6 Nights, 7+ Nights. The longer your stay, the less the the rate per day will be.
Can I bring my Dog?

Yes – dogs are welcome when hiring one of the Defender 110 Land Rovers (excluding the Utility and the New Defender). Please select the Dog Package at checkout or get in touch with the WildTrax team if you have any questions!