Winter holidays are not only about hot countries and Christmas markets. If visions of snowstorms warm your heart, this list of best cold weather travel destinations is for you. There is no reason the changing seasons should stop you from going into vacation mode – and cooler weather is often better embraced, not escaped.
Besides, if you are fond of cold weather, chartering a yacht with Ragnar is a perfect choice to get unforgettable travelling experiences as Ragnar yacht is designed for scientific expeditions and is capable of reaching the Arctic. But, in current conditions, you should remember to remain flexible in case of restrictions cause a charter to be postponed.
So get ready to plan the perfect winter getaway. Read on for 11 best cold weather vacation Ideas to get the most out of your winter temperatures when temperatures hit new lows.
Bohinj, Slovenia
The ski resort in the Slovenian Alps is part of the Triglav nature reserve. That is why concern for the environment takes a special place here. In Bohinj, unusual for European cities, you will be impressed by clean air and untouched landscapes. It is located on the shores of Lake Bohinj, the largest lake in Slovenia, so active winter recreation can be combined with walks in nature.
Canillo, Andorra
One of the largest ski resorts in Europe, Grandvalira, is located in the village of Canillo. It includes 119 slopes of different difficulty levels and two ski centres: Pas de la Casa and Soldeu. The resort is recognised as one of the best in the Pyrenees mountain ranges. The capital of a small state, Andorra la Vella, is just 20 minutes away by car.
Norwegian Atlantic Road, Norway
For scenic driving, grab a car and plan your trip along the famous Norwegian Atlantic Road. Curving across an archipelago of islands on the west coast, it ties the islands together and is dotted with a dragon’s back, eight bridges, and several viaducts. Watch the waves crash against the road and stop along the way for breathtaking views.
Tromsø, Norway
The Arctic capital Tromsø is located right in the centre of Northern Norway. This is where you will want to come if aurora borealis, whale watching, midnight sun and incredible outdoor adventures are on your wish list. Enjoy excellent ski and hiking conditions in the Lyngenfjord Region, experience Sami culture in the towns of Karasjok and Alta, and step on the northernmost point of Europe, the North Cape. In the eastern part of this vast region lies the Varanger Peninsula, a birdwatching paradise.
Lofoten and Nordland, Norway
Stunning peaks, sparkling fjords, authentic fishing villages and picturesque beaches. Not to mention the northern lights and the midnight sun! A higher level of outdoor activity awaits you when you visit the ski and hiking paradise of Narvik and the little-known natural gem of the Helgeland coastline a little to the south. Here you can take the Coastal Route between Trøndelag and Bodø, recognised as one of the most scenic rides in the world.
Cliffs of Moher, Ireland
Ireland’s most visited natural attraction, the soaring Cliffs of Moher rise more than 411 meters above the steep Atlantic in a wild and dramatic eight-kilometre coastline. Take the time to walk the trail along the cliff to look at the Aran Islands, and see exhibitions on the geology and environment of the cliffs at the visitor centre. On the southwestern edge of Barren, a region in County Clare that includes the wild rocky landscape of Burren National Park, cliffs and sea stacks off the coast are home to thousands of seabirds.
Tracy Arm Fjord, Alaska
Tracy Arge is located in the south of Juneau and is a popular destination for cruise ships and boat trips. Waterfalls fall over sharp rocky walls and glaciers are frozen, creating small icebergs. The scenic setting is within the Tersida Tongas National Forest. At the head of the fjord sits the twin Sawyer Glaciers. Wildlife sightings are common on tours, whether it’s a brown bear or elk on land or the whales and seals that inhabit these waters.
Lugano, Switzerland
The city is located on the shores of the lake of the same name, between the mountains of San Salvatore and Bre. It is located close to the Italian border, so it will easily fit into a trip to Northern Italy: an hour’s drive from Milan and half an hour from Lake Como. In Lugano, you can go shopping, visit old Italian churches and climb mountain peaks. The medieval architecture looks especially picturesque against the background of the snow-capped tops of the Alps and the bright frosty sun.
Rovaniemi, Finland
Travelling to the Arctic Circle for a winter vacation? Why not, especially when it comes to the capital of Lapland and the hometown of Santa Claus. Reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile tours, fabulous hotels and, of course, a meeting with Mr. Claus await you.
Hallstatt, Austria
A small Austrian town located on the shores of the lake of the same name, 70 km from Salzburg. Hallstatt is a postcard location with tiny houses, towering misty Alps and swans floating in a clear lake. The city dates back to 1311 and is recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. In 2012, a replica of Hallstatt was built in China, and now tourists come from there to compare it with the original.
French Riviera
Out of season resort towns are a special pleasure. In winter, the sun still shines on the French Riviera, the sea wind blows, and seagulls fly. In the cold season, here you can visit the casino in Monaco, enjoy huge portions of food in Nice and walks along the free Cannes promenade. Another reason to visit the Cote d’Azur in winter is to understand why so many artists have wintered on the Riviera.
Visiting these directions, you will experience something new and unknown. So, you shouldn’t be limited only to popular resorts and countries that regularly appear on your Instagram.