In winter, ski centres are in full swing - Glencoe, Nevis Range and Cairngorm.

The Highlands offer a brilliant choice for golfers - with 44 courses and more than 600 holes, including Nairn, regular venue for national championship play. Riding and trekking is easy to find. And it's a great way of enjoying the local terrain. Cyclists can find dedicated cycle tracks as well as off-road choice galore.

For anglers, there are great value day permits - and the advice from the locals comes free! Sea anglers, too, can enjoy great sport, with a choice of boat charters and trips. There are great yacht-cruising grounds on the western seaboard, while the Caledonian Canal is also ideal for yacht or cabin cruiser. In fact, the Highlands offer water-sports of all kinds, from river-kayaking to wind-surfing, with both water-sports-themed holidays and tuition from watersports centres available.

As for other sports: test out the Highland terrain via off-road driving or arrange a day's shooting and stalking on a Highland estate. Then there is tennis, squash, orienteering, cruising, bowling, archery, petanque, even martial arts and sled-dog sleigh riding. You can even learn how to fly Birds of Prey! - just choose a skill and track it down in the Highlands.

With the new access legislation that came into force in February 2005 giving a right of responsible access there's never been a better time to get out there and enjoy the countryside of the Highlands. Find out more about responsible access on the Scottish outdoor access website.

For more information on adventure activities in the Highlands see the VisitScotland Active website.

You can also search our database for activity holiday operators in the Highlands.