What is the best month to visit the Scottish Highlands?


What is the best month to visit the Scottish Highlands? To have the most sunlight and best weather, many people head to the Scottish Highlands in the summer, between May and September. Starting in October, the weather can be unpredictable — freezing temperatures, gale-force winds, and snowfall are all possible.


What is the sunniest month in Scotland?

During the period in consideration, the month with the most hours of sunshine in Scotland was June 2023, with a total of 231.4 hours. However, April and May typically have the most hours of sunshine in Scotland.


What are the worst months for midges?

Our Tips for keeping the Midges away Firstly, midge season is generally in the height of the summer, from mid-May to September. So, if you are visiting us at any other time of year, you will not be bothered by them.


Can midges bite through clothing?

The best way to prevent midge bites is to wear EPA-registered insect repellent, especially if you're wearing clothes that expose large areas of skin. Biting midges can't bite through clothes, but they can get underneath them. When enjoying outdoor activities, like hiking, it's best to wear long sleeves or pants.


What month has the least rain in Scotland?

January is the wettest month of the year, with an average of 177.5mm of rain, while May is the driest month, receiving just 84.5mm of rain on average - which is probably the reason for the Scottish proverb “cast not a clout till May be oot”, or, don't take off your winter clothing until May!


How do you avoid midges in Scotland?

Now you've got your midge repellent arsenal sorted, here are some practical tips you can use while you're out there in the wilderness.
  1. Head for the water. ...
  2. Wear light-coloured clothing. ...
  3. Time it right. ...
  4. Long sleeves are your friends. ...
  5. Get up high. ...
  6. Stay indoors during dawn and dusk. ...
  7. Avoid stopping in long vegetation. ...
  8. The wild cards.


What is the best time to go to Scotland to avoid midges?

From May until September, travelers have a high chance of running into midges, especially in the Highlands. These flying, biting insects prefer wet, humid, and cloudy conditions and come out in full force in July and August. To avoid the midges, book your trip to Scotland between late September and early May.


Are the Scottish Highlands worth it?

Nothing is perfect, but the stunning scenery that makes up the Scottish Highlands comes pretty close. The more than 11,000-square-mile region north of Glasgow, Scotland, is a living exhibit of Mother Nature's greatest magic, featuring a diverse array of geographical offerings that leave travelers with unbridled awe.


When can you see the northern lights in Scotland?

The frequency of seeing the Northern Lights in Scotland varies. In the northern regions and remote areas with dark skies, such as the Isle of Skye or Shetland Islands, sightings can occur several times a month during the peak aurora seasons (September to March).


How many days in Scotland is enough?

We recommend you allow 9 - 10 days in Scotland for a satisfying tour of the country's diverse scenery and history. A 10 day itinerary, such as the Best of Scotland tour plan, would let you spend: 2 days in Edinburgh walking the historical streets and enjoying the cosmopolitan buzz.