Christmas in the Highlands / Nollaig air a’ Ghàidhealtachd
20 people attending
15 places left
3 Nights in the NW Highlands
Christmas is coming! This year we are travelling to a spectacular location (if you like mountains, glens & lochs!), to a hostel that's literally loch side - the group photo below is from the hostel lawn!
The location for our weekend away is not far from the A87 which makes it easy to get to but still close to the magnificent areas of Glen Shiel and Kintail. For the adventurous there are lots of hills to climb and for those wanting an easier life the area is a tourist hot spot (albeit without most of the tourists in December), with Eilean Donan Castle (£) and the pretty village of Plockton just a short drive away. What we do is very much up to the weather gods but we have options whatever the weather..
This weekend is also your annual opportunity to dig out those Christmas jumpers, and any other fancy seasonal outfit you may have, to wow our guest who will be along to entertain(!) and give out the secret santa presents on Saturday evening; In years past we have seen more and more distant relatives of the Santa family come along and cause mayhem, as Santa never came back after the first Scottish Christmas event many years ago.....
Dogs: Please note this event is not suitable for dogs.
Photos: Taken by AMD and used with permission.
IMPORTANT! - Participation Statement
You MUST complete a Participation Statement, in addition to booking your event space before attending an OutdoorLads event. You only need to complete this Participation Statement once, not for each event you attend.
Anyone with COVID-19 symptoms, even if they are extremely mild, or who has recently tested positive for Covid-19, is asked not to attend.


What to bring
The main activity planned for the weekend is to explore the area on two feet, good walking boots are a must along with clothing for any weather - the area often has the first snows of the winter around this time.
Boots: Hiking boots are arguably the most essential piece of kit when hiking just about anywhere. Walker’s should make sure that their boots are both waterproof and breathable, and provide good ankle support. Boots should also be in good condition.
Socks: A good comfy pair of walking socks is essential really; they keep your feet warm and drier than normal socks.
Gaiters: Gaiters attach to the bottom of walking boots and extend to just under the knee. They provide waterproofing for the bottom half of the leg. They are not essential to have but you will feel the difference if you have them when walking through muddy or boggy ground - which is almost guaranteed in Scotland.
Walking Trousers: You should have a suitable pair of trousers for walking in, jeans are not suitable as they take on water when wet and will make you cold. The same goes for jogging pants/tracksuit clothing.
Waterproof Trousers: Waterproof trousers are essential in case of wet weather. They are also good to be worn as a second layer as they can act as a windproof barrier, keeping the legs warm.
Base Layer: A breathable base layer should be chosen in order to let sweat escape from the body. This could be a cheaper sports top or you could go top of the range with a merino top, as cotton T-Shirts can become damp and uncomfortable when climbing a mountain.
Other Layers: On top of your base layer, you can have a variety of options such as a micro fleece, a fleece jacket or a rugby/sports top can sometimes be good. Having one or two additional layers gives you flexibility when the weather is changeable – the more layers, the more flexible you can be in adapting to the weather.
Waterproof Jacket: A good waterproof jacket is one of the most important pieces of kit you will require when hiking. Walkers should look for a jacket that is both waterproof and breathable in order for them to be protected from sweat. Materials such as Gore-tex are often the best choices but they can be expensive unless you shop sensibly, don’t forget your OutdoorLads discount for Full Members at Cotswold outlets.
Hat: As most heat is lost through the head a good hat is essential.
Gloves: Gloves are essential in the colder months, windproof or better still waterproof gloves are the best choice.
Rucksack: A good Rucksack that is comfortable to wear is essential, and required to carry both food and equipment. Day sacks should have a capacity of around 30 litres. As an option you could store your items in waterproof bags inside just in-case or ensure the bag has a waterproof bag to pull over the top.
Map & Compass: If you want to learn to be a leader or you just like to know where you are, then you can bring a map that covers the area. It is best to bring your map either in a map case or purchase maps which are waterproof.
Mobile Phone: If you choose to bring your phone, then you are well advised to buy a waterproof bag or if that is not possible a simple food/freezer bag will suffice.
Food & drink
Friday evening - please bring an item for the buffet
For the customary Outdoorlads buffet, please bring something to feed 1 or 2 people, but no more otherwise we will have enough food to feed all the deer in the neighbourhood. Be imaginative with your offering... You could bring a selection of meats or cheese, some pasta salad, fancy bread or even do a bit of baking!
Saturday & Sunday dinner along with breakfasts, are included in the event cost.
Saturday & Sunday lunch - you will need to bring with you.
Tea & coffee is available throughout the weekend.
Should you require any last minute shopping, the nearest supermarkets are in Fort WIlliam, Perth or Inverness.