Scottish Highlands Winter Wonderland Birding Break 2026
Explore Highland forests, moors and firths in early winter, with three or four guided days chosen for snow, road conditions and current bird activity.
About this tour
This early-winter break is based at the Grant Arms Wildlife Hotel and is offered in two formats: five nights with four guided days, or four nights with three guided days. The programme responds to snow, road access and recent sightings while retaining a clear mix of inland and coastal habitats.
Local forest and moorland birding can bring Crested Tit, crossbills, Black and Red Grouse, with Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting possible when mountain conditions permit. Highland glens add opportunities for Golden and White-tailed Eagles, deer and Mountain Hare.
Coastal days visit the Black Isle, the Moray and Cromarty Firths and the Moray coast for wintering geese, waders, sea ducks, divers, grebes and gulls. Dinner, breakfast, packed lunches, hot drinks, guiding and transport are included; the longer departure has one additional flexible field day.
Planning a wider trip? Read our birdwatching guide to United Kingdom.
Guides
Itinerary
Day 1
Arrival and winter briefing
Arrive at the Grant Arms Wildlife Hotel and meet before dinner. The guide reviews the forecast, snow and road conditions before setting the order of the field days.
Day 2
Pinewoods, moors and Highland glens
Start around local forest and reserve habitats for Crested Tit, crossbills and Red Squirrel, with a Black Grouse stop where appropriate. If conditions allow, scan higher ground for Ptarmigan and Snow Bunting before looking for eagles and other wildlife in a glen.
Day 3
Black Isle winter waters
Explore the Inverness area and Black Isle, including sheltered firths and tidal sites. Search for Scaup, Long-tailed Duck, grebes, mergansers, geese and wader flocks, with farmland stops for finches and other winter visitors.
Day 4
Moray Firth coast
Follow the Moray coast for Common and Velvet Scoter, Long-tailed Duck, divers, Eider and winter gulls. The route uses bays and observation points offering the best shelter and visibility on the day.
Day 5
Flexible final day or departure
The longer departure uses an additional day to revisit missed targets or explore another inland reserve and raptor area. Guests on the shorter format depart after breakfast, and all timing remains subject to the booked departure.
Locations & map
- Grantown-on-Spey - United Kingdom
Availability & pricing
Availability is confirmed after your inquiry.
Included
- Dinner, bed and breakfast
- Three or four full guided birding days
- Packed lunches and hot drinks
- Tour transport
Not included
- Alcoholic drinks
- Tips and personal expenses
Transport & stays
- Private vehicle
Policies & FAQ
Insurance & Safety
Send inquiry
Ask about this tour before booking. Your preferred date is optional and availability will be confirmed after your inquiry.