Winter frost doesn’t mean you have to stay indoor all the time. Winter offers diverse vacation options, whether you enjoy snow, fireside relaxation, or beach escapes. This list gives you a mix of well-known favorites and hidden treasures to spark ideas for your winter travels.
- Lake Tahoe, USA: This mountain jewel offers more than just skiing and snowboarding options. In addition to world-class slopes, bask in the lakeside towns, such as South Lake Tahoe. Beneath the panoramic views, warm yourself with a mug of hot chocolate or book a scenic gondola ride for heart-stopping views.
- Canadian Rockies, Canada: Banff National Park and Lake Louise are known for a lot of things, and that is why they are legendary destinations. Observe breathtaking glaciers, snow-covered peaks, and turquoise lakes that in winter turn into a frozen fairytale. Riding gondolas up to Banff Sunshine Village or Lake Louise Ski Resort will awe you with breathtaking scenery and heart-pumping descents.
- Jackson Hole, USA: This Wyoming spectacle is renowned for its tough slopes and lively après-ski scene. Jackson Hole Mountain Resort offers a massive vertical drop that seasoned skiers will appreciate, while the town of Jackson is a bustling place of art galleries, restaurants, and pubs.
- Iceland: This country in the Nordics, with its unique combination of winter sports and the beauty of nature, is an extraordinary destination. Discover the extraterrestrial scenery of Vatnajökull National Park, the largest national park in Europe with glaciers, ice caves, and steaming hot springs. During the night, hunt for the ethereal Northern Lights, an amazing sky display decorated with bright colors.
- Lapland, Finland: Travel through Santa’s Workshop, the place every child dreams of. Rovaniemi, the hometown of Santa Claus, gives an opportunity to go for reindeer sleigh rides, husky safaris, and to meet the jolly man himself. Beyond the joyful holiday spirit, ski cross-country or snowmobile in the immense snowy landscapes or try ice fishing in the frozen lake.
- Salzburg, Austria: Plunge yourself into the enchanting beauty of this historic Austrian city. Hike through the baroque Altstadt (Old Town), a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and be fascinated by the splendid Salzburg Cathedral. In December, the city celebrates the famous Christkindlmarkt, an amazing Christmas market selling local handicrafts, tasty goodies, and hot glühwein (mulled wine).
- Reykjavik, Iceland: Iceland has much to offer adrenaline junkies, yet the city is the place to be for cozying up and relaxing in the winter. Experience relaxing soaks in the geothermal Blue Lagoon, a milky turquoise pool with volcanic rock surrounding it. Check out the city’s live arts, the museums that display Nordic art, and pop-ups with contemporary installations. Snuggle up at a neighborhood bistro and relish a steaming mug of Icelandic coffee and kleinur (twisted donuts).
- Leukerbad, Switzerland: Snuggled in the middle of the Swiss Alps, Leukerbad is a car-free place well-known for thermal baths. Take a break and unwind in waters which are naturally heated with the help of the gorgeous sight of the alpine valleys. If you are seeking an adventure, how about a cable car ride on Gemmipass offering amazing views and hiking trails?
- Park City, USA: This ski resort town in Utah flawlessly combines winter sports with a walkable Main Street dotted by art galleries, dining spots, and stores. Skiers will find top-notch slopes at Park City Mountain Resort and Canyons Resort. Wrap up a day on the slopes with a relaxing visit to the opulent spa or catch a sporting event at the world-famous Sundance Film Festival, held during the month of January.
- Dolomites, Italy: This high country range provides stunning views as well as a posh winter getaway. Pretty ski towns could be found in the valleys, the slopes for each level are available, and cozy places with roaring fireplaces are offered in the small wooden houses. Besides skiing, move around the region by snowshoeing or lounge comfortably in a sleigh ride through the charming snow-covered forests.
- Maldives: Discover a tropical island haven where pristine powdery white sand beaches, turquoise clear waters, and overwater bungalows offer unmatched ocean views. Snorkel or scuba dive beautiful coral reefs full of marine animals or just lounge on the beach enjoying the warm winter sun.
- Dominican Republic: This island of the Caribbean offers all-inclusive resorts, gorgeous beaches, and the abundance of the rainforests. You can spend your days relaxing, snorkeling coral reefs, or head inland for hidden waterfalls and colonial towns. The Dominican Republic also offers chances for windsurfing, kitesurfing, as well as deep-sea fishing.
- Marrakesh, Morocco: Walk yourself into the winding alleys of the Medina, the old city district, where lively souks (markets) full of spices, hand-made items, and bright textiles are available for your shopping. Plunge yourself into Moroccan culture’s vibrant envelop of Djemaa el-Fnaa, the main attractions square where the snake charmers, acrobats, and street food vendors create a spellbinding aura. For a touch of opulence, unwind at a traditional hammam (bathhouse) or relax by the pool in a fabulous riad (Moroccan guesthouse).
- Great Barrier Reef, Australia: Leave behind the cold winter and explore the largest coral reef ecosystem in the world. A tourist can find here an ideal place for exploring sailing, snorkeling, and diving surrounded by striking coral reefs and abundant marine life. For an altogether different experience, fly in a helicopter and experience the sheer enormity and breathtaking beauty of the Great Barrier Reef.
- New Zealand: This winter park offers a broad array of experiences, ranging from skiing on the Southern Alps to dipping in geothermal hot pools. Take a cruise to the breathtaking Milford Sound, or go on foot through the Tongariro National Park, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site and famous for its volcanic environment. For those seeking a touch of luxury, consider a stay at a lodge surrounded by gorgeous scenery and immerse yourself fully in the surrounding enchantment of New Zealand’s winter wonderland.
Pack your bags and embark on an unforgettable winter adventure to one of these captivating destinations!
