From snow-capped peaks to otherworldly realms of icebergs and glaciers, a cool change is always a good idea.
Winter adds a unique kind of magic to a holiday. Crisp mountain air fills the lungs, the sun glints off blankets of pristine snow, and laughter mingles with the swoosh of skis carving down a perfectly groomed slope. Then, as the day fades, there’s the retreat to a cosy fireside haven where, with a fine red in your hand, the crackling flames banish the chill.
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Slopeside Sensations
Right across the United States, impeccably groomed slopes and world-class amenities await at ski resorts that are the very definition of luxury and sophistication. In Utah's Wasatch Mountains, Deer Valley beckons skiers and snowboarders seeking a mountain experience with upscale amenities, flawless trails, and sublime ski-in ski-out accommodation. In Colorado, Beaver Creek’s cobblestoned streets, lined with galleries and boutiques, are as much a draw as its diverse terrain, with horse-drawn sleigh rides adding a touch of romance. And for those seeking a side of sophistication with their snow, the vibrant resort town of Aspen beckons with world-class restaurants, chic boutiques, art galleries, and lively nightlife.
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To the north lies Canada's Whistler, where gondolas soar over snow-capped peaks, revealing extensive terrain and boundless adventures, from thrilling ski runs to ski jumps and alpine zip lines. At the base, a pretty pedestrian village with a legendary après-ski scene and an array of five-star accommodation awaits.
Looking for a blend of heart-pounding thrills and breathtaking scenery? Queenstown should be at the top of your list. New Zealand’s adventure capital offers world-class skiing at four resorts alongside bungee jumping, white-water rafting, and scenic helicopter tours.
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Beyond Skiing
For those looking for a one of a kind experience, how about a stay in an igloo? Turn an overnight stay into a magical spectacle at Kakslauttanen Igloo Village where, snuggled in the wilderness of Finnish Lapland, guests can watch the Northern Lights dance overhead from the luxurious comfort of a glass igloo.
Or, if you're after the real icy deal, consider Iglu-Dorf Kühtai in the Tyrolean Mountains near Innsbruck in Austria. The unique igloo village, custom-built every year, features a restaurant, bar, sauna, and activities ranging from snowshoeing to igloo building. In Switzerland, arty snow hotel Iglu-Dorf Zermatt offers postcard views of the Matterhorn. By day, guests can explore the surrounding ski slopes, and at night, they can unwind in the hotel's hot tub or bar, all made of snow and ice, before cosying up in their own igloo.
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Poles Apart
Embark on an extraordinary voyage to the icy realms of Antarctica and the Arctic aboard specialised expedition ships, where every moment is a thrilling encounter with nature's wonders. Cruise lines like Hurtigruten and Silversea offer unparalleled luxury and the opportunity to witness majestic wildlife up close. Expert naturalists lead Zodiac excursions, offering encounters with polar bears in the Arctic or colonies of playful seals and penguins waddling along the shores in Antarctica.
Market Magic
Europe’s Christmas markets cast a spell of festive joy. From Austria’s Innsbruck and Vienna to Italy’s Bolzano, the air is filled with the aroma of roasted chestnuts, steaming mugs of glühwein, and wurst hot off the grill. Twinkling lights illuminate historic cobbled squares lined with wooden stalls overflowing with handcrafted ornaments and an array of irresistible traditional treats.
In Switzerland, the magic reaches new heights with Zurich’s enchanting Singing Christmas Tree and the Swarovski Crystal Christmas Tree at Zurich Train Station, which adds a touch of sparkle to the festivities. For those seeking an immersive experience, there are a variety of tours that take in fairy tale villages dressed in their festive best and Christmas markets right across Europe.
