Swap the winter blues for a winter holiday worth smiling about. Whether it’s swapping out chills for sunlit skies or embracing winter weather at its best, there are so many trips to be had.
Don’t let the season be something you dread and have a stay to look forward to. From chalet stays in the continent’s best Alps, to spectacular properties in Iceland, enjoy a unique winter stay across various landscapes. Take the pressure of planning off and let this guide give you all you need to know. Here are five top picks for unique winter stays in Europe.
Switzerland
Home to some of the world’s most renowned alpine scenery, it doesn’t get much better than Switzerland for a unique winter stay. From eco-luxury hotels to hand-sculpted igloos, there are countless distinct places to call home in the country.
Enjoy skiing and snowboarding down some of the world’s best slopes and iconic après-ski scene. In glamorous resorts like St. Moritz, visitors can stay nestled in cosy lodgings, amid snow-covered forests and hillsides. To explore the most untouched lands, go snowshoeing through the quieter areas of the Swiss Alps like the Alestsch region. Go ice skating on open-air rinks with picturesque views surrounding them, or why not enjoy some of the longest toboggan routes in Europe?
Hoch-Ybrig, Switzerland
Don’t fret about the colder temperatures, because the foodie scene is sure to warm you up! Many resorts are renowned for their Swiss Fondue, which is a gooey melt-in-the-middle chocolate cake that’s sure to impress. Equally, get warm in world-class spa facilities scattered throughout the alpine. With influences from across the world, the mix of wellness and winter wonderland is a perfect combination to stay in.
UK
From countryside haven to chillier stays by the sea, the UK is a paradise for cozying up in the winter. Swap out the winter blues with the embrace of the orange fireplaces all together. From secluded spots of Herefordshire to grand house stays higher up in Scotland, there are plenty of last minute accommodation deals to get every family away this season.
Wrap up and enjoy winter walks in the Wye Valley and surrounding countryside. Despite unpredictable weather in the winter, misty rainfall makes for some of the most atmospheric scenery. If it’s a visit in the festive months, the UK is abundant with Christmas markets up and down the country. Pick up handmade crafts and local produce to enjoy.
Leadenhall, UK
From stays on canal boats to really feel like a local, to the dramatic interiors of castle ruins, the landscape is full of places to enjoy a unique winter stay. Soak up the quintessential charm of English wintertime and enjoy pyjamas on at teatime as the sun sets early! Even as snow falls, let worries leave as you sit back and relax in stunning interiors away from the chaos outside. Embrace the wintery weather rather than dread it, in the UK.
Iceland
World-renowned for winter stays, it doesn’t get much better than a trip to Iceland. Enjoy the most luxurious and unique accommodations surrounded by natural wonders that are sure to be unforgettable.
Near to the capital’s main airport, stay at the five-star hotel at the Blue Lagoon. The natural geothermal spas are one of the Seven Wonders of the World, so a stay here is the cherry on top! Marvel out at the lava field from floor-to-ceiling windows and enjoy exclusive access to private lagoons. Indulge in the spa when no one else is there and feel truly relaxed with a stay here.
The country is one of the world’s best hotspots for seeing the Northern Lights. For the greatest chance and warmest way to see the euphoric spectacle, research the array of glass lodges. Set in remote hillsides and wilderness landscapes away from light pollution, marvel at the Icelandic stars scattered across the night sky. While the Northern Lights cannot be guaranteed, you’re in the right place during the right season, so it is likely!
Iceland
As Iceland is so cold during the winter season, the country is well equipped for warming amenities. For a rejuvenating stay within the natural alpine environment, it truly couldn’t get better.
France
A paradise no matter the time or season, France is not to be forgotten for a winter stay! With the French Alps in its portfolio, the country is another incredible pick for skiers in particular. Visitors can warm up in some of the landscape’s best and most unique accommodations.
Méribel is a popular resort choice for alpine stays in the winter. It’s known for its classic French charm and a central location to the rest of the Alps and local villages. Stay in one of the luxury Méribel ski chalets and enjoy an array of amenities to enjoy evenings with after busy days on the slopes. From catered and serviced packages to self-catering for a home-from-home experience, the cabins provide the perfect environments for cozy stays like no other.
Andorra
Nestled in between the mountain regions of France and Spain, Andorra is a lesser-known ski haven. The Principality can offer a wealth of unique properties amid alpine landscapes fit for anyone from novice to expert snowsport enthusiasts.
Whether you’re after a luxury hotel resort featuring spa facilities, or a property with a rustic Nordic interior, the region has you covered. Families will enjoy the quirky theming of Hotel Yeti, where mountain scenery outside is reflected on the inner walls and interiors. Enjoy plenty of spa facilities across most luxury accommodations and an overall quieter atmosphere than other European mountain resorts.
Summary
Don’t let the winter blues be something you dread! Swap the miserable scenes at home for an enchanting trip in alpine wonderlands. Europe is a paradise for winter stays, so why not give yourself something to look forward to and take off on a chillier retreat.
