Whether your favourite thing about winter is curling up in front of a roaring fire with a cup of mulled wine or embracing your inner child by frolicking in the snow, there is a certain special magic that comes with waking up to a world reminiscent of a winter wonderland when you’re on holiday. As we can’t predict the weather here in the UK, it’s a good idea to book a break abroad. That way, you’re guaranteed the chance to enjoy the snow-filled vacation of your dreams.
Fortunately, there is a dazzling range of breath-taking winter destinations in this big old world that can deliver the experience you desire. Here are a few winter adventures you will not want to miss…
Trek with St. Bernards in Switzerland
Visit the famous Great St. Bernard Pass in Switzerland to make friends with the giant mountain dogs that inspired the classic family film Beethoven. These beautiful beasts were first bred at a monastery in this region where their keen sense of smell and strength made them the perfect rescue dog, saving souls who were stranded in the snow. Although the dogs have long since retired, they are an integral part of the culture – you can take snowshoe treks to the monastery and walk with the dogs amongst the idyllic Alpine scenery.
Enjoy a reindeer safari in Lapland
‘Tis the season to visit the homeland of Father Christmas himself. Why not try out his ride of choice while you’re there? Reindeer have been a huge part of Finnish Lapland’s heritage since the mid-19th Century and a visit to the famous Torassieppi Reindeer Farm can teach you all you need to know about these wonderful animals. One of the highlights of Lapland experiences is a reindeer safari where; wrapped in a nest of blankets, you can ride across the snow under the stars, in pursuit of the Northern Lights.
Cruise Antarctica
Journey to the ends of the earth with a cruise to the last continent; explore an icy world virtually untouched by humanity. The majority of cruises take place during the more favourable weather conditions of the Antarctic summer season. The period that stretches from November to March. Expect wildlife spotting opportunities in amongst the magnificent glaciers and glittering snow-capped peaks. Early summer sees the elephant and fur seals establish their breeding territories; mid-summer is prime time for seal pups and penguin chicks; and whale sightings are abundant in late summer on the Peninsula.
Take a mountaineering course in Wales
For those that prefer to stay a little closer to home, the snowy wilds of the Welsh mountains offer a chance for adventurers to test and stretch their rambling and climbing experience. The National Mountain Sports Centre runs a variety of mountaineering courses that cater to all levels of experience. So, if you’d like to extend your summer hiking into the winter months and discover Snowdonia in all its frosty glory then maybe Wales is the place to go.
Hike Yosemite National Park
For something a little further afield, head to the USA where the beautiful landscapes of Yosemite National Park beckon. The blissful peace and tranquillity of this epic paradise is heightened in winter when the peak summer season tourist crowds dwindle away. There are plenty of activities to get your blood pumping; from skiing and snowboarding to snow-shoeing and ice-skating, but a guided hike into the wintry wilderness is guaranteed to satisfy the adventure in your soul.
Whilst a winter adventure will provide you with memories to cherish forever; the type of activities you get up to on your trip could affect the travel insurance you need to buy. Ensure you pick the right policy so that all your winter sports and activities are covered; and enjoy your experience with peace of mind.
Wherever you plan to travel this winter don’t forget to cover yourself with adventure travel insurance.