Over the sea to Skye: a Scottish winter cruise with seals, solitude and snow

Porpoise everywhere at first light. Porpoise to the bow and stern. Porpoise off the coast of Raasay and the whaleback Crowlin islands. Porpoise hidden from passengers driving over the Skye bridge, but clearly visible from the shelter deck of our vessel as we slide out north towards Loch Torridon. Before long, a pod surrounds the boat, sickle fins glinting white in the winter sun. A little way ahead, near the shores of Applecross, two cormorants dance across the ice-cold sea.

Somerset

Norfolk

The wetlands, woods and dunes of north Norfolk are perfect for a long weekend of birdwatching. As well as geese, ducks and waders, there is a chance to see seasonal visitors such as rough-legged buzzards, snow bunting, shore larks and waxwings. One evening is spent in search of owls.?395pp half-board, next trip 10 December, naturetrek.co.uk

Cairngorms and central Highlands

This five-day tour takes in habitats from rivers and lagoons to pine forests and mountains to maximise wildlife encounters. Fingers crossed for red deer, red squirrels, pine martens, mountain hares, capercaillies, snow bunting and ptarmigan.?795 with accommodation and most meals, next trip 24 February 2022, wildernessscotland.com