Ski area The Lecht

Skiing and snowboarding at The Lecht will reward visitors with magnificent views of the CairnGorms National Park. Although one of the smaller ski areas in Scotland, Lecht has invested a fair chunk of money into their snowmaking equipment and this, along with their dedicated staff, means they are often open for business on days when neighbouring ski areas are closed. It also draws less crowds so it is a good choice on weekends and during holidays. Despite being such a small ski area, The Lecht has a lot of heart and often hosts après-ski events during the winter.

The Lecht is especially well-suited to beginner and intermediate skiers, with a magic carpet in the beginner’s area and an abundance of short slopes that are ideal for getting your ski legs. At the Penguin Park, penguins and toadstools watch benevolently as the kids slip and slide their way around the rotondo carousel. The resort is also very snowboard-friendly, with a snowpark including jumps, rails, boxes and even a half-pipe when conditions allow. There is a lodge at the base with hot drinks and desserts, and the resort provides lessons and equipment for hire (it’s advisable to book ahead). For more advanced skiers, there is a coin-operated raceway piste. As with all mountains in the UK, be sure to check weather conditions and roads before heading up.