Most Magical Winter Destinations
Since my native city is located just 500 miles from the Arctic Circle, the winters are usually dark and chilly there. The winter season here lasts from late November to March. The rivers and canals freeze throughout this period and start melting only during the long-awaited spring The St Petersburg Winter temperatures can go as low as -8*C. That does not mean that you can not enjoy your vacation life even in the extremely chilled weather, I just came back from my festive trip and I can tell that was a magical experience during Christmas, when the whole city is illuminated with colourful lights. That is what I recommend you to do - festive shopping on Nevsky Avenue, the amazing Christmas market on Maneznaya Square, the traditional Christmas ballet Nutcracker at Mariinsky Theatre, snow family-fun activities in the countryside (better take chalet with a fireplace), plus you have a great variety of theatres, art galleries, museums and unique restaurants in the city.
2. Finland, Rovaniemi
From husky rides to hunting the Northern Lights, we are here to offer you most importantly one thing - pure joy. Experience the magic of Lapland in our two destinations: Rovaniemi, known as the official hometown of Santa Claus, and Ylläs, which is a perfect getaway from the hustle and bustle of big cities. What about floating between the ice blocks under the sky full of stars, riding a snowmobile through snowy forests or meeting our furry friends for husky safari in the wilderness?
3. Iceland
With its glassy glaciers, hot thermal springs, spectacular geysers, active volcanoes, lava fields, stunning waterfalls and snow-capped mountains, Iceland is the original ‘land of fire and ice’. The second largest island in Europe, Iceland lies close to the Arctic Circle northwest of Scotland and south of Greenland, and it is primarily the unique and wonderful natural phenomena that draw visitors to the country.
4. Germany, Dusseldorf
Düsseldorf in Advent is an exciting mix of Christmas markets and shopping, especially around the Königsallee where the Sternchenmarkt and five other theme markets lead the way along the most popular shopping streets in Düsseldorf. Christmas Market opens its "gingerbread houses" not far from the Königsallee. On the Gustaf-Gründgens-Platz you will find a giant outdoor ice rink offering fun for all the family.
5. French Alps
Embrace the winter season with a snowy escape to Val Thorens Sensation in the French Alps, 15 minutes from the most famous ski resort Courchevel. This chic all-inclusive resort is one of Club Med’s highest altitude ski destinations at 2,300 meters and it offers some of the best winter sports in the world. A ski lift located at the heart of the resort will give you direct access to the Three Valleys domain, featuring 600km of slopes to explore.
6. China
Escape to a picture-postcard winter wonderland at Yabuli China Club Med, an all-inclusive resort promising a dreamy getaway with special offers from now until the end of April 2020. With your ski pass and ski lessons included, take off on an alpine adventure as you explore the white peaks of the Yabuli Merge, offering 20 miles of runs across stunning mountains peppered with pine forests.
7. Japan
Be amazed by the beauty of Sahoro Hokkaido, a boutique family resort set at the foot of powder-soft ski slopes on Japan’s second-largest main island. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, all-day gourmet dining, dedicated children’s clubs and after-ski activities for all ages on an all-inclusive holiday of a lifetime. Savour the Japanese lifestyle, from traditional hot tubs to delicate tea ceremonies, and indulge in ‘nabe’, a family-style soup recipe unique to the island of Hokkaido.