It’s frosty and windy. The air outside is chilly. When the horizon is but a blanket of white, warmer climes come to mind. For most people, winter vacations mean a respite from the cold. But we say why escape the winter when you can make the most of it? It’s a magical season that deserves its due. Change things up this winter and embrace the snow at these beautiful destinations across the globe.
Plitvice National Park, Croatia
Famous for gorgeous waterfalls and terraced lakes, Plitvice National Park is a sight to behold in the winter months. Its limestone canyon remains blanketed in white – almost straight out of a fairy tale. This UNESCO World Heritage Site should feature at the top of your list of surreal winter destinations.
Black Forest, Germany
Germany’s fabled Black Forest is the setting of so many fairy tales we love. Follow the footsteps of Sleeping Beauty and Hansel and Gretel with a trip to this enchanting forest. Winter transforms the Black Forest. It turns into a wonderland of white slopes and fir trees peppered in snow. Cross-country skiing and toboggan runs are some of the most popular activities here.
Jigokudani Monkey Park, Japan
One of the most captivating images of winter has got to be wild macaques, red-faced and bathing in Japan’s hot springs. Experience this for yourself at the country’s breathtaking Jigokudani Monkey Park.
Rovaniemi, Finland
What would a winter vacation be without a trip to Santa’s hometown? Rovaniemi lies deep inside the Finnish part of Lapland and is Christmas personified. There’s something special about Rovaniemi. Maybe it’s Santa. Or perhaps it’s his elves. All we know is the town is on every family’s bucket list!
Jasper National Park, Canada
Walk into a true winter wonderland at Jasper National Park in Alberta, Canada. It lies at the center of the stunning Canadian Rockies with some of the most awe-inspiring peaks and vast expanses of frozen lakes. The ski hill here is at the highest base elevation in Canada.
