Snow time like the present to experience Scotland's skiing and snowboarding resorts
This winter is bursting with brilliant moments on Scotland's mountain slopes and now is the time to get out there and experience the beauty of the mountain ranges in the snow.
All of the five mountain resorts have new facilities for this winter season and CairnGorm Mountain will feature in its own BBC One Scotland series. Plus, with World Snow Day on Sunday 18 January, there are plenty of family friendly snow sports activities planned for the weekend across all the resorts.
There really is no time like the present to get the adrenaline pumping on Scotland's slopes!
The Mountain, BBC One Scotland First episode airs - Monday 12 January at 7.30pm, BBC One Scotland
CairnGorm Mountain will feature in the new series, The Mountain, on BBC One Scotland and snow junkies are encouraged to visit the resort throughout the rest of the winter season. CairnGorm Mountain is one of the most beautiful and challenging skiing areas in the UK. Located near Aviemore, it is a short drive from the A9 and is accessible from all over Scotland. The Highlands resort has an altitude of 3,600ft and 18.5 miles of pisted runs which include runs to suit all abilities (12 green, 11 blue, nine red and three black).
Visitors chose from one of 11 lifts or the funicular railway to take visitors to the mountain top where they will find the Ptarmigan Restaurant and Bar with stunning panoramic views over Loch Morlich. At the resort, visitors will find the Ski & Snowboard School, which has a VisitScotland 4 star activity provider rating. The professionally qualified instructors offer group and private lessons for everyone from total beginners to those looking to improve their technique. One day lift passes are £34.50 for adults, with concessions available for children, seniors, students and half day passes.
World Snow Day
All resorts, Sunday 18 January
All activities are dependent on weather conditions, please check on www.ski-scotland.com before you travel or call the mountain resort.
In the west of Scotland at Glencoe Mountain children will receive free chairlift passes and there will be a snowman building competition, igloo building workshops and sledging races. All activities take place from 12pm – 3pm and there are prizes to be won. Over in the east at Glenshee Resort, children under 16 will have free access to the beginners area and to the Baddock chair lift. There will also be snow sculpture making and sledging.
Nevis Range World Snow Day activities and offers
50% off beginners packages for 10 people
Nevis Range is giving total beginners at skiing or snowboarding the opportunity to learn and save 50%. The first 10 people who quote 'World Snow Day Offer' when booking by phone can take to the slopes on the beginners package which includes a one day beginners area lift pass, one day equipment hire including skis / snowboard and boots, and a two hour group beginners ski or snowboard lesson. Places will be allocated on a first come first served basis, phone Nevis Range on 01397 705825 for more information and to book.
Half price snow show hire
Snow shoes will be available for hire for the day with 50% off the normal price.
Sledging
Sledging is great for families and the Nevis Range has slopes suitable to thrill sledgers of all ages. Visitors can bring their own sledge or purchase one from the Nevis Range shop. Plus, children under five ride for free on the gondola.
World Snow-man Competition
Nevis Range will be holding a competition for the best World Snow-man built. Competitors can build a snowman or any snow sculpture they wish ready for judging at 2pm on World Snow Day. Competitors can enjoy a complimentary mug of hot chocolate in the Snowgoose restaurant and bar or the Pinemarten café bar.
Après Ski World Snow Day
After a day or skiing, snowboarding or making snow sculptures, enjoy a spot of après ski fun in the Pinemarten Café Bar. Visitors can enjoy Scottish produce and a dram of whisky with spectacular views.
Free childrens' activities at Snow Factor, Glasgow
At the Snow Factor in Glasgow, children can enjoy free sledging and lift passes when accompanied by a paying adult. Children can also eat for free when with a paying adult.
Six things you might not know about Scotland's winter resorts:
Glenshee takes its name from the Gaelic 'Glen of the Fairies' and is the largest skiing resort in the UK covering 2,000 acres (which is four mountains and three valleys) and 25 miles of piste runs.
Glencoe Mountain is the UK's oldest ski resort and has 10 microlodges resembling hobbit houses and are available for just £50 per night per lodge.
The Lecht is licensed to hold weddings – perfect for loved up snow enthusiasts
Nevis Range near Fort William has the highest number of black runs in the UK, and has a gondola taking passengers from sea level to 2,150ft up the mountain.
CairnGorm Mountain recently became the latest Natural Retreats resort with new facilities being built.
The five ski resorts are all within easy driving from around Scotland. Fort William is less than 10 miles from Nevis Range and less than 30 miles from Glencoe Mountain. Inverness is around 40 miles from CairnGorm Mountain and 50 miles from The Lecht, Aberdeen is around 65 miles from Glenshee.
For information, inspiration and current snow conditions in Scotland go to ski-scotland.com.