As the festive season fast approaches, it’s the perfect time to discover Christmas gifts from the Scottish Highlands, something a little unusual and bound to be different.
If your special someone adores quirky artisan gifts, an indulgent pamper session, or they’re a whisky connoisseur, we’ve put together our recommendations, sure to add a festive spark to your celebrations.
Prickly Thistle Clothing & Accessories
The tartan rebels of the Scottish Highlands, Prickly Thistle produce beautiful, handcrafted clothing for women. Renowned for their commitment to heritage and sustainability their collection is made from 100% wool fibre fabrics, woven exclusively at their own mill, just north of Inverness.
The small team of skilled weavers create tailor-made tartans, used to produce outerwear apparel, co-ord sets, kilts and accessories. Each tartan has its own unique story and purpose. The quality of craftsmanship and material is exceptional.
What sets Prickly Thistle apart is their dedication to ethical practices, their clothes are made to be worn forever. By making a purchase, not only are you getting a one-of-a-kind design, but you’re also actively making a difference toward reducing environmental destruction and modern-day slavery. It’s no wonder they gained the proud reputation as Scotland’s tartan rebels!
Whisky from the Isle of Islay
Islay, aptly known as the “Queen of the Hebrides,” is a whisky lover’s paradise, with nine distilleries, each one renowned for its own unique flavour. If your special someone is a whisky connoisseur or a curious enthusiast there’s a fantastic array of ‘liquid gold’ available to order.
Laphroaig and Ardbeg are famed for being intensely peaty and medicinal, while Lagavulin balances peat with a rich, smoky depth. Bowmore offers a refinement of sweetness and peat, while Bunnahabhain is a softer, unpeated expression.
The remaining four distilleries; Caol Ila, Kilchoman, Bruichladdich and Port Charlotte strike a harmonious balance between citrus, vigor, peat, and smokiness.
These whiskies are world-class and cater to the most discerning palates. Why not add a glassware gift set, a beautiful keepsake that’s guaranteed to raise a big smile on Christmas morning?
Ishga Organic Seaweed Skincare
This award-winning luxurious skincare range is rooted in the pure, clean waters of the Hebridean islands, off Scotland’s north-west coast. The name Ishga derives from the Gaelic meaning for water.
ishga products are made using only four types of organic seaweed, harvested by hand. As you might expect, Hebridean seaweed contains potent natural antioxidants that transform and protect the skin, bursting with natural goodness, vitamins and minerals. The brand’s commitment to sustainability extends to its eco-friendly packaging and cruelty-free ethos.
A few of the bestsellers include their marine antioxidant creams, serums and body oils, and organic hand-poured candles using only the freshest Hebridean Botanics.
Isle20.com – Love Island Shopping
This online shopping platform came into being in 2020, when the whole world came to a complete standstill. Without any visitors to the Scottish islands, the artisan makers had no means of selling their goods and products.
Cue isle20, an online treasure trove, teeming with bespoke and beautiful gifts made by small island businesses. Choose from artisan crafts, colourful and considered artwork, local food and drinks, custom-made fashion items, and exquisite jewellery.
The entire purpose of this retail site is dedicated to buying ‘local’, connecting shoppers with island sellers and their products. This is conscious consuming, supporting their livelihoods and strengthening island communities for years to come.
Oban Winter Festival and Markets
Back in 2011, a small group of locals from Oban decided to start a winter festival including a Victorian market. It was such a great success that it’s continued every year since.
Many consider the festival a great spot for Christmas shopping, the markets are brimming with a fantastic array of local handcrafted goods. The Oban Distillery is transformed into a craft and food market showcasing some of the best textiles, glassware, wood carvings, and locally produced meats, cheeses, and preserves. Decadent and delicious, perfect for curating a Christmas food hamper.
The beloved Corran Halls and the Royal Bank Garage also emerge as winter markets, with a great variety of seasonal gifts on offer. Entry to the markets is free and takes place November 18th and 25th, and don’t miss the late-night shopping extravaganza happening on Thursday 23rd.
Loch Melfort Hotel Gift Vouchers
This Christmas, give the gift of Loch Melfort. Our hotel gift vouchers are your passport to everlasting moments in the heart of Argyll. Whether it’s a cosy intimate escape with your beloved, an indulgent dining experience for the foodie in your life, or a relaxing afternoon tea, we’ve got something to suit everyone.