Planning a trip to the Highlands and worried about the weather? Even in the rain, there is plenty to do… Cosy lodges, museums, whisky tours, family fun and scenic drives. Rain is part of the Highland experience — and with weather that can change by the hour, it’s often one of the most beautiful ways to see the landscape. Mist curls around the mountains, the glens deepen in colour, and waterfalls appear suddenly where moments before there was only rock.
Here are a few suggestions we recommend to our guests at Inverskilavulin Estate.
Stay Cosy in your Highland Lodge
Enjoy a long breakfast in our fully furnished lodges alongside the wood-burner, play games, watch a film, read, or soak in the hot tub while listening to the rain and watching the landscape unfold into different scenery as the weather passes through. In Glenloy we often witness 3 seasons in 10 minutes! It is something to experience. Make sure to have your camera ready and possibly set on a video so you can replay the wonders of Scottish Highland weather after you’ve left. Simple pleasures become even more special during wet weather.
Ride the Jacobite Steam Train (Harry Potter Train)
The iconic train ride from Fort William to Mallaig is extra atmospheric in the rain. Harry Potter fans will love seeing the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Or drive to the viaduct viewpoint in Glenfinnan to watch it pass — arrive early for parking and check train times for when it passes the viaduct.
Whisky Tour at Ben Nevis Distillery
What a better way to warm up than a wee dram! A classic rainy‑day adult activity. Learn about the art of making whiskey and experience the complex aroma that fills the nearby areas from these distilleries. Ben Nevis Distillery has a rich history and fantastic selection. for a more comprehensive distillery road trip guide check out our other blog post here. You could make a day trip of it!
Photo Credit: Rob van Hilten
West Highland & Cameron Museums
The West Highland museum is located on Fort William High Street and the Clan Cameron museum on Achnacarry estate. These museums offer a rich overview of Highland history and artefacts, and are fully indoors. James Cameron, famous director of the Titanic and Avatar is a member of the clan Cameron and features in the museum too. The Glencoe visitor’s centre is also great to find out more about history, geology and landscape. There are some nice woodland trails nearby perfect for drizzly days (with the right gear!). If you and or the kids are interested in fossils, crystals, dinosaur eggs and more – then the ‘treasures of the earth‘ museum in Corpach will be a hit.
Indoor Rock Climbing (or even Ice Climbing!)
Perfect for adults and teens. Offers bouldering, roped climbing, and beginner‑friendly sessions. You can visit the Three Wise Monkeys.
Cafés & Lunch in Fort William
Warm up with good food and coffee in town. Local favourites include Highland Soap Co Café and The Wildcat.
The Nevis Centre
Bowling, soft play, arcade games, and a relaxed café — ideal for kids needing to burn off energy.
Rainy Day Scenic Drives
Some of the Highlands’ best views appear in mist and rain. Great routes include Glenfinnan, the road to Mallaig, the Ardnamurchan Peninsula, and Glencoe.
Local Walks
Walking through Glenloy (yes, even in the rain) can be super fun. With the right waterproofs — jacket, trousers, boots — you can absolutely enjoy the outdoors. Kids especially love muddy puddles and rainy woodland walks, and warming up in your lodge (or stepping into your private hot tub) makes it even better. Beinn Bhan lodge is perfect for families and has the added bonus of an exclusive hot tub to warm up in after a wet walk.
Rain in the Highlands brings a different kind of magic. Whether you’re exploring cosy cafés, riding the Harry Potter train, splashing with the kids, or enjoying your lodge, there’s always something special to experience near Inverskilavulin Estate.
