Whilst the water cools down, air temperatures remain relatively warm and many a day could be described as ‘sweater weather’. It is not unusual to be out in only a jumper, even in January. Whilst those on the mainland are wrapped up in their big duffel coats, you could be enjoying a cool evening on sweeping beaches – the wind whipping a spray of sea-salt scent into the air, and the winter sun a cool reminder of everything you have left behind for a rejuvenating break on this peaceful and secluded island.

The Isle fo Tiree is an idyllic place to visit in the winter. The accommodation on the island is perfectly suited to the wilder weather; the small cottages often have incredibly thick walls and most are graced with a wood burner. Returning from a walk, swim or surf, they will embrace you in a cocoon of comfort and relaxation. Every moment of any holiday should be one to treasure, and being able to bask in the glow of a fire after a day out in the spectacular weather is a guaranteed way to make sure your evenings are as precious as every other minute on this small island.

SURF & WINTER SPORT

Statistically speaking, The Isle of Tiree is the windiest place in the UK. It shouldn’t come as a surprise, then, that during the winter months, the cold water surf scene on the island really comes alive. The Hebrides are known for their incredible swell opportunities, and Tiree is really no different. With 46 miles of coastline, there is always a beach working for any surf sport, some with 15+ft waves (for the braver among us). 

“A unique island with some awesome wave sailing beaches as well as flat water heaven. You’ll fall in love with the place!”

-       Boards Windsurfing Magazine

A haven for windsurfers, with its natural weather system of good winds, big surf and sunshine, the Isle of Tiree also offers up conditions just as good for free surfers, and body surfers. This is the time to visit if you are planning a surf trip to Scotland, as the waves here match those of anywhere else in Europe. The surf season is a long one too, and peak conditions can last from October to March. January is billed as the best time to visit overall, with consistent conditions and exceptional places to surf, but any time through the winter months should give you a real Atlantic Ocean treat.

It is still worth bringing lots of neoprene if you plan on getting in the water, even if it is warmer than you would expect, as it can drop as low as 6 degrees Celsius, but set after set of perfect waves more than make up for the sea-chill.

WINTER WILDLIFE

The vast array of wildlife changes as the winter months draw in, as many birds seek shelter on the warmer shores of the Island over the freezing temperatures of the mainland. Around Tiree’s Lochs, you may catch sight of flocks of birds seeking refuge from the weather. These can include Tufted Ducks, Goldeneyes, and Little Grebes.

Wetter weather hits the island and struggles to drain, which makes the perfect conditions for Whooper Swans to arrive in large numbers, as they love to take advantage of the wet plains of Tiree. The vast number of breeds, both rare and common alike, are too many to number. Through winter, this little island really becomes a haven for birdlife, and both bird watchers and holiday visitors would find this connection with nature a true delight.

There is nothing quite like a tranquil afternoon in the singsong company of a flock of birds, surrounded by cool blue skies and vibrant green rolling fields, to then return to the cosy comfort of one of Tiree’s many blackhouses.

Whilst the whales and dolphins may leave for warmer waters during the cold snaps, the birds are just as wonderful and will most certainly have you returning again to see more.

Tiree through the winter has two main draws – that of the love of surf, or that of the love of tranquillity. If you need a break from the busy mainland life, coming to Tiree is the perfect opportunity for some well-earned peace and a slower pace of life. It will give you the quiet needed to fully rest, whilst also giving you the memories of a lifetime with its soulful scenery. If you are looking for a surf holiday, or a sporting event, it is the ideal chance for a highly focussed week of fun and adventure.

CHRISTMAS GETAWAY

Seek solace on the Isle of Tiree during the holiday season, an unforgettable destination for the festive getaway with or without friends and family. If you want to stay close to home a Christmas staycation is the answer. Cosy nights in by the fire and crisp morning strolls along empty beaches. Views of a snow covered mainland from warmer aqua shores and winter fields bathed in golden sunsets. If you are looking for a truly memorable home from home experience or something unexpected, the Isle of Tiree has something for everyone during the holiday season.

And if you don’t want to cook, the Scarinish Beach Hotel’s Stoirm Restaurant usually offer a stunning lunch on Christmas Day in an informal setting, complete with Christmas tree and a roaring fire.

If you’re looking for an utterly different feel to the summer months, the Isle of Tiree in winter is a thoroughly inviting and magical place for your visit.