The most beautiful places for your winter vacation

Discover the most magical winter paradises worldwide

Nordic Winter Wonders — Nordic Winter
Wonders

Unusual Winter Travel Destinations — Unusual Winter
Travel Destinations

Winter Magic in the Alps — Winter Magic in the
Alps

Wintry Fairy Tale Cities — Wintry Fairy Tale
Cities

The most beautiful places for your winter vacation

Winter Magic in the Alps

The snow-covered peaks of the Alps offer an incomparable backdrop that seems straight out of a winter fairy tale. Picturesque villages, such as the tranquil Zermatt in Switzerland, impress not only with their charming Alpine architecture but also with their untouched nature and eco-friendly lifestyle. Particularly fascinating are the traditional customs and festivals that are celebrated during the winter season and deeply rooted in Alpine culture.

Away from the bustling ski slopes, you can discover enchanting winter hiking trails in the Alps, winding through deeply snow-covered forests and over silent high plateaus. The clear, fresh mountain air and the untouched silence have a calming effect and invite you to leisurely snowshoe hikes or romantic sleigh rides. In the rustic mountain huts, homemade specialties like raclette or Kaiserschmarrn entice visitors, providing a culinary finishing touch to the winter experience.

For the particularly adventurous, the Alps offer extraordinary experiences such as Ice climbing on frozen waterfalls or overnight stays in an igloo. These unique activities create unforgettable moments and allow you to experience the winter magic in its most intense form. Combined with wellness offers like a visit to an Alpine thermal bath, the winter holiday becomes a harmonious mix of adventure and relaxation.

Ski and Snowboard Paradises: The Best Slopes for Winter Sports Enthusiasts

The Alps are home to some of the best ski and snowboard areas in the world. A definite highlight is the French Les Trois Vallées, the largest interconnected ski area globally with over 600 kilometers of slopes. Whether beginner or professional, every winter sports enthusiast will find perfect conditions here. The variety of runs, from gentle slopes to challenging black pistes, provides both diversity and challenge. The experience is rounded off by modern lift systems and excellent snow reliability, consistent from November to April.

Another top destination for winter sports enthusiasts is the Austrian St. Anton am Arlberg, considered the cradle of alpine skiing. The region offers an impressive combination of deep powder snow, rugged descents, and wide freeride opportunities. The offering is complemented by a vibrant Après-Ski life, perfectly rounding off a day on the slopes. Especially popular is the Valluga descent, which impresses not only with its length but also with its breathtaking panorama. Here, experienced skiers and snowboarders can truly let loose.

If you want to experience the wild side of winter sports, Canadian Whistler Blackcomb is an excellent choice. This resort is known not only for its gigantic size but also for its varied terrain parks that amaze both beginners and professionals. Here you can ride in pristine powder snow areas and at the same time enjoy the modern amenities of a first-class resort. The combination of spectacular landscapes, state-of-the-art infrastructure, and typical Canadian hospitality makes Whistler an unforgettable winter sports destination.

Cozy mountain huts: atmosphere and cuisine in the Alps

In the mountain huts of the Alps, you can expect an incomparable cozy atmosphere, characterized by crackling fires and traditional furnishings. Massive wooden beams and detailed touches ensure authentic Alpine comfort. Frequently decorated carvings and historical furnishings let you quickly forget everyday life. Here you can relax after an eventful day in nature and fully enjoy the rustic ambiance.

The culinary experiences in these huts are as impressive as their charm. Regional specialties like Tyrolean Gröstl or Käsknöpfle invite you to indulge. Fresh, local ingredients and traditional preparation methods guarantee a unique taste experience. Many huts also offer a selection of fine wines and homemade schnapps, which perfectly complement the hearty dishes. Sweet temptations like apple strudel or Germknödel, prepared according to age-old recipes, are also especially popular and delight every dessert lover.

Equally appealing are the cultural evenings offered in some mountain huts. Here you can experience Alpine joie de vivre up close with traditional music and dance. Handmade crafts are often exhibited, providing insight into local craftsmanship. These evenings not only offer wonderful entertainment but also the opportunity to learn more about Alpine culture and make new acquaintances in a convivial setting. Thus, a stay in the mountain huts of the Alps becomes an unforgettable experience that goes far beyond Just spending the night.

Nordic Winter Wonders

Nestled in the deep blue of Scandinavian fjords and wide, untouched white landscapes, the Nordic countries offer a unique winter experience. In regions like Norway, Sweden, and Finland, natural spectacles such as the Aurora Borealis, better known as the Northern Lights, reveal themselves away from the cities. The colorful play of lights in the night sky captivates everyone and remains a unique memory. The Lapland regions also offer exciting outdoor activities like husky sledding and snowmobile safaris, allowing you to experience winter in its purest form.

In the picturesque villages and cities of Scandinavia, coziness is a priority in winter. Hygge is the magic word in Denmark, while in Sweden, the term Lagom reflects the right measure of comfort and well-being. In rustic cabins, you warm yourself by a crackling fire and enjoy traditional delicacies like Gravlax (cured salmon) or Köttbullar (meatballs). Nordic cuisine is characterized by its simplicity and the quality of its ingredients, often sourced directly from the surrounding forests and waters.

A special highlight for adventurers is a Trip to the Sorrisniva Ice Hotel in Finland. Built from massive ice and snow, the hotel offers an extraordinary overnight experience. With artfully carved ice sculptures and transparent architecture, it conveys the magic of a winter wonderland. Bathing in a frozen lake after a hot sauna session is also one of the unforgettable experiences the Nordic winter holds. The combination of tradition, natural experiences, and exclusivity makes winter in the North so unique and diverse.

Northern Lights and Snow Landscapes: Magical Moments in Scandinavia

The untouched snow landscapes of Scandinavia invite you to a variety of activities beyond classic winter sports. Try a snowshoe hike through the deep snowy forests of Sweden. Here you experience nature in its purest form, far from any civilization. The clear light of the far north is reflected in the glittering snowfields and frost-covered trees, making this excursion a magical experience.

Another highlight is Ice climbing on the frozen waterfalls of Norway, which offers not only a physical challenge but also a visual spectacle. The frozen masses of water form impressive sculptures that shine enchantingly in the winter sun. This sport is suitable for beginners as well as advanced climbers, as there are numerous frozen waterfalls with different levels of difficulty. After an adventurous day in nature, the Norwegian cabins with their cozy fireplaces and a cup of hot Gløgg invite you to relax.

In addition to the sporting activities, the winter landscapes of Scandinavia also offer the opportunity to observe wildlife in their winter habitat. Reindeer, moose, and even arctic foxes can be discovered in the wild. Particularly exciting is a guided safari, where you can not only observe the animals but also learn a lot about their way of life and adaptations to the harsh winter conditions. In the untouched expanse of the Nordic snow landscapes, every encounter with the native animals becomes an unforgettable experience.

Adventurous dog sledding excursions and snowmobile tours

Adventurous dog sledding and snowmobile tours offer you unique opportunities to experience the winter wilderness from a completely new perspective. On a dog sledding trip, you immerse yourself in the tranquility of the snow-covered landscape, while the panting of the huskies and the gliding of the runners in the snow create an almost meditative experience. There is nothing like being pulled by a team of energetic dogs through the white expanse while feeling the connection between human and animal. These adventures are not only a physical challenge but also a way to learn about the historical significance of dog sledding culture, deeply rooted in many northern regions.

Snowmobile tours, on the other hand, provide speed and adrenaline, adding a completely different dimension to the winter adventure. Glide full throttle over frozen lakes, steep slopes, and through dense forests. The modern machines allow you to explore the remotest corners of winter landscapes. During a guided tour, you not only experience the impressive nature but also gain valuable insights about the local flora and fauna from experienced guides. The powerful engines of the snowmobiles enable you to cover long distances in a short time, enjoying the incredible diversity of the winter scenery.

Both dog sledding and snowmobile tours require good preparation and a certain level of physical fitness. But the mix of adventure and nature experience makes these activities unforgettable highlights of your winter vacation. Test your limits, both physically and mentally, and experience the splendor of winter in a way that makes you feel truly alive. Whether leisurely in harmony with the animals or fast and powerful, these adventure tours let you experience winter in all its dynamism.

Wintry Fairy Tale Cities

Traditional Christmas Markets in Europe: A Feast for the Senses

Traditional Christmas markets in Europe offer a multisensory experience that immerses you deeply in local cultures. In Strasbourg, also known as the "Capital" of Christmas markets, France's oldest market exudes a magical atmosphere with its scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. Experience the artfully designed stalls offering handcrafted ceramics, wooden toys, and exquisite Christmas ornaments.

In Bruges, the charming Belgian city, the markets around the Grote Markt invite you to a nostalgic journey. Framed by medieval architecture, you can not only sample Belgian chocolate creations but also skate on an ice rink and enjoy the unique atmosphere enhanced by festive lighting and historical backdrops.

The Christmas markets in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, enchant with a backdrop of well-preserved Gothic structures and a wintry fairy-tale landscape. Here you should definitely sample the local glögg and taste the traditional Estonian gingerbread. The mix of snow, lights, and Nordic flair creates an almost surreal, fairy-tale atmosphere that captivates every visitor.

Romantic old towns in winter attire: Visiting historical backdrops

Imagine the cobblestone streets of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic gently covered with powdered sugar snow, while the Baroque and Renaissance buildings shimmer in the soft light of the lanterns. In the cozy alleys of this UNESCO World Heritage City, a romantic winter mood unfolds, inviting you to linger. Cafés and taverns beckon with hot, aromatic drinks and Bohemian specialties that warm body and soul.

Further north, in the Danish town of Ribe, winter envelops Denmark's oldest town with a touch of fairy tale. The well-preserved half-timbered houses and narrow, winding streets provide the ideal backdrop for a contemplative stroll. Historic churches and the impressive Ribe Cathedral rise majestically against the clear winter sky, while the "Ribe VikingeCenter" brings the life of the early Vikings to life with vivid representations. The snowy landscape around the town adds to the idyllic atmosphere.

Another gem is the Croatian city of Dubrovnik, whose old city walls exude enchanting tranquility in winter. Away from the summer tourist crowds, you can stroll through the quiet, winding alleys and enjoy the architecture influenced by Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque styles. The gentle murmur of the Adriatic in the background creates a meditative backdrop. A visit to the many museums and historic buildings becomes an exclusive experience, while local delicacies await you in small, traditional restaurants, where winter arrives on your plate with Mediterranean flair.

Unusual Winter Travel Destinations

Icy Architecture: Experience Unique Ice Hotels

There is hardly a more extraordinary experience in a winter Vacation than a night in an ice hotel. These architectural marvels are entirely made of compacted snow and crystal-clear ice, offering a breathtaking blend of art, nature, and comfort. Ice Hotels like the famous ICEHOTEL in Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, captivate with their ephemeral art. Rebuilt every year, they allow international artists to create fantastically carved ice suites and monumental sculptures that exist only for one season.

In addition to the visual splendor, these ice Hotels offer unexpected comfort ensured by specialized sleeping bags and insulating mattresses. Snuggled in reindeer furs, you can feel surrounded by a unique silence, interrupted only by the faint crunch of ice. Additionally, there are often warm communal areas and bars where hot drinks are served to warm you up after a day full of snow adventures.

However, the experiences in an ice hotel go far beyond Just spending the night. Many offer a range of winter activities: from intricate ice sculpture workshops and guided tours explaining construction techniques to luxurious spa treatments in specially designed ice rooms. These unique experiences make a stay in an ice hotel more than Just a night’s accommodation; it's a comprehensive journey into a glittering winter world that recreates itself year after year, revealing surprising facets of winter.

Winter vacation by the sea: A refreshing change of perspective

A winter Vacation by the sea offers a surprisingly refreshing change of perspective and provides a pleasant break from the usual mountain and snow landscapes. Imagine strolling along deserted beaches, while the waves gently roll to the shore and a fresh breeze clears your mind. In this tranquil atmosphere, you can escape the stress of everyday life and simply enjoy the vastness and silence. The North Sea, with its tides constantly changing the landscape, offers a particularly fascinating experience. The frosty temperatures create bizarre ice formations on the beach that sparkle in the winter sun, providing unique photo opportunities.

Do not forget the health aspect of a winter Vacation by the sea. The salty air is known to boost the immune system, and an extended walk along the coast acts like a natural inhalation therapy. Many coastal towns also offer relaxing wellness services that perfectly fit the eco-friendly concept of a nature-friendly vacation. After a hike in the windy cold, a visit to the sauna or a hot bath in a spa invites you to end the day cozily. In regions like the North Sea coast, there are also special thalassotherapy treatments that use the healing power of seawater and algae to revitalize body and mind.

Culinarily, a winter Vacation by the sea has a lot to offer. In many coastal towns, fresh seafood and fish dishes are served in rustic restaurants with a view of the sea, tasting especially good. Some specialty restaurants offer exclusive menus from locally caught fish, giving you unadulterated maritime delights. How about a warming pot of mussels or a hearty fish soup that tastes particularly good after a cool day by the sea? Thus, a winter Vacation on the coast combines relaxing nature experiences, health-promoting activities, and Culinary Delights into a unique and unforgettable experience.

Personal travel report on "The most beautiful places for your winter vacation"

The winter vacation in the Alps will always remain unforgettable. Snowboarding in the snowy mountains of Tyrol is absolutely amazing. The slopes there are like something out of a winter fairy tale. Breathtaking. A ride on the cable car up to Zugspitze. Gigantic! The view over the snow-covered peaks is simply incomparable. In the small nearby villages, you can retreat to cozy huts in the evening. Fireplace, hot chocolate, friendly people. Perfect end to an eventful day.
Another highlight: visiting the ice palace on the Hintertux Glacier. Frozen waterfalls, glistening like diamonds. Very special. Zermatt in Switzerland must also be experienced. The Matterhorn in its majestic splendor, a sight that leaves you speechless. Sledding on the nearby Riffelberg always provides adrenaline rushes and fun.
Before Christmas, definitely Salzburg. The Christmas market in front of the Hohensalzburg fortress, simply magical. Glittering lights, the scent of gingerbread and punch. No comparison. Finally, a side trip to Kitzbühel. Witnessing the Hahnenkamm races up close. The live spectacle and the party afterwards – incomparable.
Winter vacation can't get any better.

Ben, 20 years young

Travel Blogger for awaymag.com