Not everyone is seeking a warm weather or beach getaway this time of year. Many prefer beautiful snow-capped mountains that invite immersion in epic white powder adventures. Using review data that showing what travelers have rated with the highest marks for snow time fun and pairing those insights with local expertise, Booking,com has come up with these top-notch winter destinations to consider before this year’s winter wanderlust disappears.
ANCHORAGE, ALASKA
When talking about snow and winter landscapes, Alaska is often the first destination that comes to mind. Winter here usually starts in October and lasts until April with travelers able to enjoy a great variety of activities and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, including snowmobile tours, glacier hiking, Northern Lights excursions and skiing.
Nestled among the beautiful Chugach Mountains to the southeast of Anchorage, and surrounded by breathtaking scenery and wildlife, Hotel Alyeska offers quick access to a tramway leading to the top of the mountains, as well as relaxing spa treatments.
LAPLAND, FINLAND
The Lapland region in Northern Finland is truly a sight to behold. Home of Santa Claus-or at least the Santa Claus Village amusement park-this winter wonderland is a great destination for the whole family, thanks to its stunning scenery and variety of activities including reindeer rides through the magical forests. Snow in this region begins falling in November and lasts until at least May.
The Lake Inari Mobile Cabins offer glass bedrooms allowing guests impressive views of the arctic surroundings and if lucky enough, the Northern Lights. Weather permitting, the cabins can be moved to be on the ice of Lake Inari.
OLYMPIC VALLEY, CALIFORNIA
Tucked amongst enormous and enchanting trees of the Olympic Valley, Resort at Squaw Creek is one of the country’s largest winter resorts and was also the host site to the 1960 Winter Olympics. Enjoy the resort’s ski-in/ski-out access or take a short drive to one of California’s greatest gems, Lake Tahoe.
The Resort at Squaw Creek offers everything a winter enthusiast may desire and more, from countless snow activities, including an on-site ice skating rink, to heated outdoor swimming pools and a renowned luxury spa. No matter what you’re looking for, the Olympic Valley area will deliver plenty of lasting winter memories.
KELDUR, ICELAND
Exploring the country’s vast ice caves, glacier hiking, guided driving tours and taking a dip in the geothermal waters at one of the many natural pools are just some of the activities that travelers can enjoy during their wintertime stay in Iceland. The unique landscapes and a possible glimpse at the Northern Lights will make this a memorable, snow-filled adventure!
Just a 90-minute drive along the famed Ring Road, southeast of Reykjavik, Hótel Selid in Keldur is situated in the middle of breathtaking scenery.
BIG SKY, MONTANA
This western style stay on the slopes of Big Sky country is all about relishing the countryside with great views and private balconies to show off the majestic landscape surrounding you. Get out and enjoy the great outdoors on Big Sky’s world-class slopes, or enjoy the area’s endless trails by snowshoe, snowmobile or even dog sled. The awe-inspiring Yellowstone National Park is just a one-hour drive away, too!
The Shoshone condo hotel’s well-appointed apartments are just a short stroll from the lively mountain village, where guests will find great dining and night life options. On site, guests are treated to a heated indoor/outdoor pool, luxury spa, and even babysitting/childcare services are available for hire.
CHAMONIX VALLEY, FRANCE
Situated among peaks as tall as nearly 16,000 feet, the Chamonix Valley is one of the most famous European destinations for skiing, family holidays or just a romantic winter break. Pack your ski or snowboard equipment and get ready to discover the place where the World’s first Winter Olympics took place in 1924. There’s usually snow on the ground from December to April, but the snow-capped mountain can be admired year-round.
Featuring an indoor pool and a relaxing wellness center, the Les Granges d’en Haut offers cosy chalets only 400 yards away from Les Chavants Ski Lift. If you’re not a huge fan of winter sports, then you can just relax by the fireplace enjoying a cup of hot chocolate or reading your favorite book.
WINTER PARK, COLORADO
The gorgeous Zephyr Mountain Lodge offers spacious suites with phenomenal fireplaces and fully equipped kitchens with unbeatable panoramic views of the mountains and ski-to-door access to the lifts. When you’ve finished your day on the slopes or exploring the area by foot on the snowshoe trails, relax in the outdoor hot tub or enjoy the village’s wide array of restaurants and shopping just steps from your door.
SUN PEAKS, BRITISH COLUMBIA
Don’t get confused thinking you’re in the Swiss Alps when you arrive at Sun Peaks Lodge. This quaint family operated hotel is located in the heart of the quaint village of Sun Peaks, British Columbia. The lodge is convenient to everything, from restaurants to shops, and most importantly to the chair lifts which are just steps away. Guests particularly enjoy the lodge’s hot tub, sauna and steam rooms, as well as the on-site restaurant, bar, and ski rental shop.
ILULISSAT, GREENLAND
Magnificent icy scenery, moonlight reflecting on the shimmering snow and the unbelievable colors of the Northern Lights are all just waiting to be experienced in Greenland during the frigid polar nights. If you love adventure, then take the time to enjoy all the outdoor activities this winter wonderland has to offer, including dog sledding, snowmobiling and ski touring.
Located on the UNESCO-listed Ilulissat Icefjord in western Greenland, the Hotel Arctic offers modern rooms overlooking the sea and the icebergs, as well as local Greenlandic dishes at the gourmet Restaurant Ulo.
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