Whether it’s to escape the winter chills and enjoy some much-needed time in the sun, or an excuse to soak up winter’s best bits, a holiday in the colder season can be just what you need. Swap rainy days for alpine or sunny stays amid luxury conditions in some of the world's most loved climates.
Here are five top picks for the best luxury travel destinations to stay in during the winter.
St. Mortiz, Switzerland
For premier alpine life, look no further than Switzerland. In the Engadine region, the resort of St. Moritz has a history of hosting high-profile winter experiences and the perfect settings for restful retreats. Standing over six thousand feet above sea level, ski enthusiasts can spend days glazing down soft slopes and highly well-groomed runs. For travellers seeking less adrenaline-fuelled ventures but still winter fun, the landscape is idyllic for exploring the pristine trails in snowshoes. Marvel at the serene beauty of frozen lakes and watch local professionals glide elegantly over. Meander through dense snow-topped forest trees and appreciate the joy of the winter season.
From private cabins to iconic hotels, stay in luxury accommodations in the area and spend evenings dining in world-class restaurants overlooking the icy beauty. Picture floor-to-ceiling windows to cosy up in front of, and grand rooms to showcase a world of luxury seclusion. Many hotels in the area have a rich history and present this across designs. Enjoy instant ski lift access and indulgent amenities intertwined with holidaying here.
Provence, France
In Southeast France, bordering the Mediterranean and the infamous French Alps, travellers can find Provence’s picturesque landscapes and hillsides. As it’s often associated with summer, a winter trip to the French countryside brings the serenity of fewer crowds and luxury alpine activities. Swap the summer hues of lavender fields for snow-topped hills scattered with green hues of olive groves. Explore the renowned villages perched on hillsides. Home to European squares and artisan shops lining narrow streets, visitors can enjoy leisurely ambles and embrace the old town feel. Wrap up and hike the small Alpilles Mountain Range, where the trails are quieter for stunning natural exploration. Embrace intimate tasting sessions in the countless prestigious wine estates and cosy up by fireplaces inside. Many Michelin-starred restaurants also stand in the region, so expect fine dining to pair the wine with.
Opt to stay in one of the incredible luxury villas in Provence to experience the best home-from-home stay to retreat to at the end of busy days. Pick one nearby one of the relaxing thermal spas, where healing waters can keep you outdoors and still take in the chill of winter air. During such an indulgent day out, prepare to be pampered and rejuvenated before a quietly cosy evening in a luxury villa.
Helsinki, Finland
For a trip that remains cool, the enchanting capital of Finland is a winner. Explore charming streets lined with intricate façades and landmarks like the Cathedral. Finnish culture is renowned for social sauna experiences, so uncover the magic of Allas Sea Pool, where traditional saunas surround heated outdoor pools. Picture staying warm while snow falls all around you; it’s guaranteed to be unforgettable! As saunas are so customary to Finnish culture, most luxury hotels offer private facilities too for you to enjoy during indulgent evenings.
Discover the artistic culture of the city home to Finland’s national gallery, or why not spend an evening experiencing Finnish National Opera amid glamorous theatre settings? With restaurants across the city delivering exceptional menus influenced by traditional Nordic cuisine, let even the fussiest palettes be amazed as fine dining meets traditional culture. Experience luxury intertwined with the most unusual things to do on holiday as you embrace winter in Finland.
Athens, Greece
If you’re more enticed by spring-like conditions merging chills with sunshine, Greek exploration has many pulls during winter. In the capital, discover the captivating history of ancient Greece and how it’s still so prominent in Athens culture today. Visit the Acropolis and enjoy the serenity of a more secluded hill climb than in peak summer. Avoid the often uncomfortably humid climb and enjoy the slower and more relaxing pace of exploring. Go luxury shopping on the Riviera coastline and enjoy afternoons lazing in luxury spas. Enjoy fine dining at its best in the capital. With fewer tourists, get the full pick of the plethora of luxury restaurants and eateries littering the town. With an expansive collection of incredible private tours in Greece on offer, ensure you’re getting the most out of a luxury winter trip.
Lanzarote, The Canary Islands
One of the Canary Islands quartets, Lanzarote offers the perfect blend of sunshine escapism and unique landscapes to explore. The country enjoys sunshine-fuelled warm temperatures year-round and the perfect cultural and natural backdrops to plan days around. Spend days feeling like you’ve stepped back into summer and enjoy pristinely soft sands and crystal-clear waters. Playa Papagayo is a top-pick beach in a protected area, so you can expect the most luxurious services and settings. Engage in exclusive activities like a private yacht charter where you can enjoy a personalised sailing experience complete with your choice of spots. Find hidden coves and delve beneath the sea depths to snorkel with varied marine life and kaleidoscopic coral. Return home with that sun-kissed glow after embracing the winter sun at its finest!
Diminish the winter blues and enjoy the joyous colours of an international trip during the season. Embrace the chills or swap them for summer thrills! Whatever it is you're after, a luxury adventure awaits.
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