How To Plan A Winter Adventure Session in Scotland - Inspiration

Last year in November, I attended my dear friend Joanna’s workshop, which was all about storytelling and how to guide couples for their adventure session (or even elopement), in Scotland. I had an amazing time learning from her, as I always strive to improve my craft. As it is often the case with Scotland, we definitely got all weathers in the span of two days. These were all taken in the same general area – I’m still not over that snow storm we got on the second day!

Couple walking in the scottish Highlands, during their winter adventure session.

Why do an adventure session during your trip to Scotland?

… Why not do one is the bigger question!

In all seriousness, doing an adventure session can be an amazing way to explore the Highlands in a different way. You will get to see places you might not have visited otherwise, especially if you book someone that knows the area well enough. Moreover, it will allow you to experience it in a slower way, rather than hopping on and off your car to snap a few pictures.

As someone that’s always felt a really strong bond to nature, I always want to share that with people. Science says it: spending time in nature is literally making us healthier and happier. So why not take advantage of that? You can craft an intentional experience while you roam the Scottish hills, jump over puddles and feel the rain on your skin (cause it will probably rain!).

Is winter a good timing for your adventure session in Scotland?

While November is not technically winter, you can definitely get wintery conditions in the Highlands! It is still a really beautiful time to enjoy the scenery, as the temperatures will usually be a bit milder. The days are getting shorter, which means you have low light for a lot of the day (a photographer’s dream), and can enjoy a sunset (if there’s sun, which is not guarantee…) without having to stay outside until late.

This means that you can have a fun time outside, and then wind down and enjoy the rest of your day in your cosy accomodation, maybe even by a fire. Alll the cosy vibes!

A note on snowy conditions in Scotland

Winter tyres

Depending where you’re from, this might come as a surprise. Most people in Scotland don’t have winter tyres on their car, since it’s not snowing that often. When it does, most folks living in the central belt (that centric part where Glasgow and Edinburgh are located) just stay at home. The people who have their car snow-ready are the ones that are used to having to travel in all conditions. Some cars will have 4-season tyres, which are still not the same as winter tyres.

What this means for you as a tourist, is that when you rent a car, you won’t automatically get winter tyres on it! I didn’t know at first and as a Swiss girl, I was definitely surprised. If you’re coming over during the winter months, and plan on driving to the Highlands, you should definitely ask your car rental what their policy on that is. Be aware that they might charge you an extra fee to put winter tyres on. And voilà!

Access & snow gates

If there’s a sudden snow storm, they might prevent access to the Highlands from major roads with what is called snow gates, meaning you literally won’t be able to go there. You can check online if snow gates are in place or not, to plan ahead.

I know this all sounds very alarming, but thankfully, it doesn’t happen every 2 days, and your photographer should be able to pivot and offer you a back up location for your adventure session.

Couple overlooking the valley of Glencoe, with snow-capped mountains in the background. They're holding a lantern.

What to wear during your adventure session?

If your Scotland adventure session is taking place during the winter, why not play with layers and plaids? This is the perfect opportunity to wear a big scarf, or cosy up in a tartan blanket while sipping on some hot chocolate.

You can also wear a long dress, with thermals underneath. No one will know. Or you can opt of a cosy jumper, maybe even a turtleneck?

Sometimes the conditions will be very cold, so think about coats, a cute hat, and gloves. We love a long coat flowing in the wind! This way, you will have two options into one: with your coats on, and with the outfits you have under it.

Here are examples of what you could wear for your adventure session!