Embrace the Joy of Missing Out |

Embrace the Joy of Missing Out: Caledonian Sleeper unveils winter escapes to help travellers switch off and unwind in Scotland

From soaking in a steaming lochside hot tub to enjoying a peaceful moment of solitude beneath snow-capped mountains or being the only person on a two-mile stretch of beach, Caledonian Sleeper is inviting Brits to embrace the Joy of Missing Out (JOMO) during Scotland’s quieter months.


Launching Sleeper Escapes, a curated guide to some of Scotland’s most peaceful winter getaways, the iconic overnight rail service is encouraging travellers to discover a different side of Scotland this January and February, when fewer crowds, snow-dusted mountains and dramatic winter landscapes create the perfect backdrop to slow down and switch off.


From the tranquility of Loch Lomond to the forests of the Cairngorms and the dramatic Angus coastline, travellers can discover dramatic landscapes, explore walking trails and find time to unwind away from the usual distractions.


Recent research from Global Rescue found that 66% of people are more interested in escaping crowded tourist destinations than they were a year ago, highlighting a growing appetite for quieter getaways and slower-paced experiences away from traditional tourist hotspots.


With nine destinations to explore along the Caledonian Sleeper network, travellers can leave the everyday behind and make the journey part of the adventure - each with their own JOMO moment.

Map with Caledonian Sleeper JOMO destinations

Standout escapes featured in the Sleeper Escapes guide include:


●    Bridge of Orchy – A mountain hideaway: Wander beneath Beinn Dorain before enjoying a warm drink surrounded by snow-capped mountains, with not another soul in sight.
●    Ardlui - A lochside reset: Explore Loch Lomond’s quieter shores before sinking into a steaming hot tub overlooking the loch, with your phone switched off.
●    Dalwhinnie & Aviemore - A Highland nature escape: Swap screen time for wildlife walks and ancient pinewoods, with only birdsong and Highland scenery for company.
●    Carrbridge & Blair Atholl - A woodland retreat: Explore peaceful riverside trails before curling up beside a crackling log fire in a secluded woodland lodge.
●    Pitlochry - A winter wellness escape: Discover scenic trails and sweeping views before unwinding in a private sauna or hot tub.
●    Stonehaven & Arbroath – A coastal escape:

 Explore dramatic coastal paths, sample a traditional Arbroath smokie and enjoy a deserted stretch of beach with only the waves for company.


While Scotland’s spectacular scenery draws visitors throughout the warmer months, its beauty can often be overlooked in winter. Yet January and February offer a different kind of escape, with quieter trails, dramatic landscapes and the chance to experience some of the country’s most breathtaking destinations without the crowds.


Steven Marshall, Head of Sales and Marketing at Caledonian Sleeper, said:


“Scotland is famous for its breathtaking scenery, but some of its most magical moments can be found in the quieter winter months. January and February offer a chance to experience a different side of the country, with fewer crowds, peaceful landscapes and plenty of opportunities to slow down.


“With Sleeper Escapes, we want to inspire people to embrace the Joy of Missing Out and discover just how special Scotland can be at this time of year. Whether it's a secluded Highland hideaway or a peaceful coastal retreat, there's something wonderful about switching off from the everyday and simply enjoying where you are.


“And with Caledonian Sleeper, your escape begins the moment you step on board, arriving in Scotland ready to make the most of your winter break.”


The launch of Sleeper Escapes coincides with Caledonian Sleeper’s Winter Sale, offering travellers 25% off all rooms and seats for journeys between 5 January and 10 February 2027.


The sale runs from 4 November to 1 December 2026, with customers able to claim the discount by booking via sleeper.scot/GLEN25 using promotional code GLEN25.