Where Should I Travel This Winter? Best Snowy Locations

Winter aficionados all around start to dream of snowy escapes as the cool air settles in and the days get shorter. From exciting ski slopes to comfortable lodges covered in powder, winter presents a special appeal that appeals to both leisure seekers and adventurers. Here's a list of some of the best snowy locations worldwide that guarantee adventure, leisure, and lifelong memories should you be looking for somewhere to visit this winter.

Whistler Blackcomb in Canada

Ideal for: Snowboarding and skiing

Whistler Blackcomb, tucked away in British Columbia's gorgeous Coast Mountains, is a refuge for lovers of snowboarding and skiing. Given its almost 5,000-foot vertical drop and more than 8,000 acres of skiable terrain, it's not surprising this location is regularly ranked among the top ski resorts worldwide.

Things to Get Done:

From beginners to experts, skiing and snowboarding have 37 lifts and more than 200 marked runs to suit every level.

Following a day on the slopes, guests can relax in the energetic Whistler Village, which boasts eateries, stores, and nightlife.

Insider Suggestion:

To save money and time, reserve your lift tickets online ahead of time.

Aspen, Colorado, USA

Ideal for those looking for luxury.

Aspen is almost always associated with luxury and winter sports. Four separate ski areas—Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass—each provide a different experience for skiers and snowboarders in this special mountain town.

Things to Get Done:

After a day on the slopes, savor gourmet cuisine at one of Aspen's several elegant restaurants, including Element 47 or Matsuhisa.

Don't miss the yearly Aspen Snowmass Winter Festival, which boasts live music, cuisine, and artwork.

Insider Suggestion:

To save dragging your equipment back and forth every day, rent a ski locker.

France's Chamonix

Ideal for: daring souls

Dream location for those looking for exciting skiing experiences is Chamonix, at Mont Blanc's foot. Renowned for its difficult slopes and amazing views, Chamonix draws experienced skiers as well as adventurous beginners.

Things to Get Done:

Any serious skier should explore the well-known 20-kilometer off-piste run known as Vallée Blanche.

Aiguille du Midi : To get panoramic Alps views from the top, ride a cable car.

Insider Suggestion:

To maximize fun and guarantee safety, think about scheduling a guided tour for off-piste skiing.

Finland's Lapland

Perfect for family fun and magical experiences.

Lapland presents an enchanted haven for people looking for a winter wonderland. Renowned for its connection to Santa Claus and the Northern Lights, this Arctic area boasts breathtaking scenery and unusual activities.

Things to Get Done:

Discover the excitement of mushing your own husky team across the snow-covered wilderness.

See the official Santa Claus Village in Rovaniemi for a magical family trip.

Insider Suggestion:

See the aurora forecast to raise your chances of seeing the Northern Lights while visiting.

Anton, Austria

Ideal for Party Lovers and Skiing Aficionados

Apart from its superb skiing, St. Anton is well-known for its active après-ski scene. Rich in history and with a vibrant community that draws winter sports aficionados from all around, this little town appeals.

Things to Get Done:

St. Anton provides varied terrain for skiers of all ability with more than 300 kilometers of marked runs.

Following the slopes, relax at one of the several bars and clubs, including MooserWirt, renowned for its vibrant scene.

Insider Suggestion:

Get a combined lift pass with access to surrounding resorts for even more skiing choices.

Japan: Niseko

Ideal for: lovers of powder snow.

Renowned for its amazing powder snow, Niseko is a first choice for skiers. Situated on the northern island of Hokkaido, this region draws enthusiasts for winter sports from all around the world ready to enjoy its special snow conditions.

Things to Get Done:

Given an average of more than 15 meters of snowfall every season, Niseko presents some of the best powder skiing available worldwide.

For a very unusual experience, unwind in an outdoor onsen (hot spring) following a day on the slopes.

Insider Suggestion:

Visit during the New Year to have an opportunity to witness the local celebrations and events.

Banff, Canada

Ideal for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.

For those who value the splendor of the natural world in winter, Banff National Park is a magnificent place with amazing scenery. Along with comfortable lodging, the little town of Banff presents a wealth of outdoor pursuits.

Things to Get Done:

One of the most well-known ski resorts in Canada, Lake Louise presents breathtaking views and easy runs.

Discover outdoor ice skating on the famous Lake Louise surrounded by snow-capped mountains.

Insider Suggestion:

For breathtaking winter views, discover the one of the most beautiful drives in the world, the Icefields Parkway.

Zermatt is Switzerland

Perfect for Skiing and Iconic Views

Zermatt presents a special skiing experience and is well-known for its breathtaking views of the Matterhorn. Winter enthusiasts would find this car-free village to be perfect since it offers a lovely environment.

Things to Get Done:

Over 360 kilometers of ski runs allow Zermatt to accommodate all degrees of skiing ability.

Riding this cogwheel train will provide amazing views of the Alps. Gornergrat Railway.

Insider Suggestion:

To access surrounding resort locations, think about getting a multi-day ski pass.

Reykjavik, Iceland

Perfect for: Special Events and Natural beauties.

Reykjavik is a great place for a winter escape combining adventure with breathtaking natural beauty. Although Iceland might not be a classic ski spot, it presents special winter activities that will captivate guests.

Things to Get Done:

Experience the magical auroras in some of the greatest viewing locations on Earth with Northern Lights Tours.

Discover Iceland's renowned geothermal sites and breathtaking waterfalls even in winter on Golden Circle Tour.

Insider Suggestion:

Wear layers since, even in the winter, Iceland's temperature can be erratic.

Conclusion

Winter is a magical season with lots of chances for adventure, leisure, and unforgettable events. There's a snowy escape for everyone whether it's skiing Whistler Blackcomb's slopes, seeing Lapland's breathtaking scenery, or lounging in an onsen in Niseko. Now is the ideal time to start organizing that winter vacation as the chill sets in. So get ready, bundle up, and start down slopes or roads to make lifetime memories!