Seasons around Fort Augustus and Loch Ness
At any time of year Scottish weather is unpredictable. Close to the sea, the
continent, the arctic and the gulf stream, there are many influences. As a
result weather patterns change violently and quickly. The highlands are famous
for the combination of strong wind and rain snow and hail. Therefore fairly
moderate temperatures, completely unthreatening in other conditions, can lead to
hypothermia. Many people have come equipped for small hills and easy conditions
but got into serious problems
Spring
Commonly April and May will throw up weather every bit as good as, and
sometimes better than, high summer. You'll encounter fewer crowds or
struggle to find somewhere to stay, and the mild temperatures and changing
colour of nature means spring is a great time for outdoor activities,
particularly walking. A large number of attractions and tourist offices
often open for business around Easter weekend. A new wave of bird, animal
and plant life appears across the countryside. In the Highlands, ospreys
return from southern climes to reclaim their nest sites on pines and pylons.
Summer
During summer in the Highlands days are generally mild or warm and very
long, with daylight remaining until 9pm or later. As well as bright colours
and a wonderful quality of light, wildlife spectacles abound and events such
as Highland Games, folk festivals or sporting events take place in the
summer months. If you're out and about in the Highlands in the summer, be
sure to check the midge forecast.
Autumn
Autumn is the season in which the countryside of Scotland achieves its
full glory with stunning colours highlighting the beauty of the glens and
snow dusting the highest hilltops. It is also a key period for wildlife as
the sense of change and forthcoming winter sweeps over the rural area. In
autumn, stags gather for the annual rut, a loud and brutal ritual
distinguished by roars and the clash of antlers. Red deer males strive to
mate with their hinds and the strongest may end up breeding successfully
with up to twenty in one year.
Winter
Winter, generally accepted as from November through to March, can be
crisp, bright and all too brief; however it is more often cold and gloomy.
Hogmanay (or New Year) is traditionally a time to visit Scotland for
partying and warm hospitality. The hospitality improves as the weather
worsens. A fall of snow in the Highlands always prompts plenty of activity
around the ski resorts. Weather poor enough to block roads and seriously
disrupt public transport is actually quite rare and normally only occurs two
or three times in a winter season.
Whatever you choose to do in Scotland and whatever season you go, you can be
assured of an unforgettable experience. |
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