6 Wintry Destinations to Add to Your Bucket List: It's time to go play in the snow!
Traveling doesn't have to stop just because winter is in full force! Check out these 7 destinations and start planning your next adventure!
Please note: This post has been updated as of December 2023
The temperature has dropped, the heavy jackets have been dusted off, and the snow is flying. Although winter has arrived, don’t let that fool you - the traveling doesn’t have to stop!
After galavanting around the globe with professional ski racers for the past four years, here are 6 wintry destinations that everyone should be adding to their bucket list.
Note to readers: This post is NOT sponsored. All opinions and experiences are my own.
1. LAKE LOUISE, CANADA
Canada’s Winter Wonderland
Tucked away deep within the Canadian Rockies, Lake Louise is best known for a lake named… Louise. One can appreciate the straightforwardness, but it’s important to look beyond the obvious attraction — this small town is much more than the turquoise waters that pour into the valley from the distant Victoria Glacier!
Once the snow starts falling, Lake Louise turns into a wintry wonderland of sorts, albeit a frigid one.
Sip on a cup of hot chocolate as you wander the grounds of the Fairmont Chateau, rent a pair of skates and dance across a frozen lake, or pack your skis and head over to the Lake Louise ski resort for some stunning views of the surrounding mountains.
Looking for a slightly larger area? A short 40-minute drive to the southeast lies Banff, a town widely known for Mt. Rundle and Mt. Cascade towering high above the cityscape.
It’s not hard to spend an afternoon perusing the picturesque main street, visiting the various boutiques and restaurants as you go.
Stay:
Fairmont Chateau - This is the priciest option in the area, but also the most luxurious. Dating back to 1890, the 539-room hotel sits directly on the shores of Lake Louise and offers visitors diverse and expansive services, including a spa, gym, free-wifi, horse drawn carriages through the snow, tea time, and more.
Mountaineer Lodge - Significantly cheaper and still conveniently located, the Mountaineer Lodge is a great value-stay. Free wi-fi and breakfast available.
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Lake Louise Ski Resort - Voted the #1 resort in Canada in 2019 and just a short drive from the town center, Lake Louise Ski Area is full of terrain for all ages and levels.
Feeling adventurous? Ride the Glacier Express to the top and make some turns along downhill track, the same run that the world’s best alpine ski racers compete on each year!
Ice Skating on Lake Louise - Glide along the frozen waters or play a pick-up game of ice hockey. Either way, the surrounding white peaks of the Canadian Rockies will create the perfect winter scene. Skate rentals start at $20 for two hours (and a hockey stick will cost $5 extra).
Getting There:
Calgary is the closest airport and only a 2hr. drive away from Lake Louise. Car rentals are widely available, but shuttles also run regularly and can often be arranged through your accommodations.
Lake Louise, Canada
2. KITTILA, FINLAND
Wintry Lapland Wilderness
Kittilä’s location, 110 miles north of the Arctic Circle, means that darkness dominates the winter, so why would anyone want to visit?
Aside from the Levi Ski Resort, which is the largest in all of Finland, and the Lapland wilderness being largely synonymous with Santa’s headquarters, the area also averages around 200 sightings of the Aurora Borealis each year.
It’s certainly not a place to visit if you’re in search of a sunny après after a long day on the slopes, but the tiny town of Kittilä is chock full of experiences and adventure!
The skiing is great, the people are friendly, and the food is delicious, but the real show happens when darkness descends and the Northern Lights illuminate the sky.
The isolation means that it’s not hard to leave the town’s ambient lighting behind and find your slice of winter paradise as you gaze up towards the sky in awe of the Aurora Borealis dancing across the horizon. It’s truly a magical moment and one that I genuinely hope everyone gets to experience in their lifetime.
The best part? It’s easy to do for free. No tours, no fees and, most importantly, no hassle. Simply rent a car and drive out of town!
Need a break from the cold? Head to the cluster of hotels and restaurants that make up the heart of Kittilä and sample a glass of Finnish lakka, an alcoholic drink made from locally sourced cloudberry, or warm up in a sauna, a staple of the country’s culture.
Stay:
Hotel Levi Panorama - For the best views of the surrounding landscapes, book a room at this mountainside hotel. As always, the ski in/ski out access comes at a cost but if it’s in your budget, then why not go for it!
Hullu Poro Levi - Located a stone’s throw away from the town center and complete with a sauna, gym, and multiple restaurants, Hullu Poro offers comfortable accommodations at a fraction of the price.
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Chase the Northern Lights - Rent a car from the Kittilä airport, track the forecast, and go hunt this spectacle on your own! It will be an adventure that you’ll remember for the rest of your life and you may even get lucky enough to bump into a herd of reindeer along the side of the road!
Ski Levi - You don’t have to travel far from the airport to reach the resort (15min, to be exact) and once there, don’t be shocked to have the slopes all to yourself as you ski in and out of the Lapland forrest!
Getting There:
Driving from Helsinki will take 11+ hours, so it’s best to fly into Kittilä. Regularly scheduled shuttle buses are widely available to transport visitors the short distance town.
3. INNSBRUCK, AUSTRIA
Tyrol’s Capital City
I’ve had the privilege of visiting Innsbruck on multiple occasions, but my fondest memory is exploring this Austrian city during Christmas.
There’s just something so majestic about sipping on a glass of mulled wine under the evening glow of the snowcapped peaks.
This is also the perfect winter destination if you’re not excited by the thought of endless amounts of snow sports.
Instead, shop along the famed Maria Theresien Strasse, climb to the top of the Innsbruck City Tower for panoramic views, or get your wintry fix by riding to the top of the Nordkette, commonly known as the “Jewel of the Alps,” and sip on a cappuccino as you soak up the sunshine high above the city.
During the holiday season, the old town transforms into an inviting Christmas Market, complete with evening brass instrument performances of classic carols from the surrounding rooftops. It’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
For a list of things to do in Innsbruck, check out this post:
Stay:
Best Western Plus Goldener Adler - If you’re set on staying in the old town, this Best Western Plus is as central as it gets and is located in one of the oldest buildings in all of Innsbruck.
Barenwirth Hotel - For a more relaxing and peaceful experience, be sure to check out the Barenwirth Hotel which is located in the nearby village of Patsch. The area is full of walking paths amongst the surrounding peaks and regularly scheduled buses make it easy to reach the city center.
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Explore the Bergisel Ski Jump - Situated high above the city as a reminder of their olympic hosting days (1964 and 1976), the Bergisel Ski Jump is still in use for competitions today. Visitors can ride to the top, look down, and imagine what it might be like to jump towards the city below. Quite a unique perspective!
Ride the Hungerburg Funicular - Departing straight from the city center, the funicular takes riders to a viewing platform above the city and, if looking for more altitude, is the first mode of transportation on the way up to the Hafelekar Peak.
Getting There:
Fly into Innsbruck’s Kranebitten Airport or arrive via train. If you have a short stopover here, luggage storage is available at most major transportation hubs and is a convenient way to drop your bags and explore the city.
Innsbruck, Austria
4. BETHEL, MAINE (U.S.A.)
Quaint New England Town
Settled in 1774, this charming New England town is often overshadowed by the likes of Killington and Stowe over in Vermont, but it serves as a great place for a winter getaway!
At first glance, it may seem like a sleepy village, but dig a little deeper and I guarantee you’ll find much more.
The town itself is located a mere 10 minutes from the Sunday River ski resort where visitors can enjoy some of the Main’s best terrain. The area also offers a plethora of other activities including dog sledding, tubing, nordic skiing, snowmobiling, and more!
After a long day on the slopes, be sure to stop by Sunday River Brewing on the way down from the mountain and sample a flight of their locally made beers.
Stay:
Bethel Inn - Opening its doors in 1913, visitors can certainly feel the history that radiates all around this building. Complete with snowshoeing trails in the winter, it’s conveniently located a stone’s throw away from the town’s main road, Broad Street. Be on the lookout for the elusive female spirit that is said to wander the hallways!
The Chapman Inn - I’m listing this hotel for all of the paranormal enthusiasts out there. The Chapman Inn consistently appears on a list of the most haunted hotels in Maine, many visitors reporting sightings of a female spirit and a black as well as hearing voices throughout the night.
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Sunday River Ski Resort - With skiing, tubing, sledding, and more, Sunday River is home to a seemingly endless amount of winter activities for all ages!
Getting There:
Only a short drive from both Manchester, NH (2.5 hrs) and Boston, MA (3 hrs), it’s relatively simple to get in and out of this wintry destination, so there’s no reason to not check it out!
5. WENGEN, SWITZERLAND
The Best of the Swiss Alps
Wengen is the epitome of living in a snow globe if ever there was one. Accessible only by train and hiking trails, this Swiss Alpine Village is known for its car-less streets, chalets, and spectacular views of the surrounding Alps.
It’s certainly not the cheapest destination on this list, but you can bet that you’ll be treated to some incredible skiing, good food, and an all-around memorable winter experience.
Be sure to take a ride up to Europe’s highest train station, the Jungfraujoch, or plan your trip around the Wengen World Cup, arguably the greatest spectacle on the professional ski racing circuit. With a beer in hand, watch as skiers risk it all for a shot at glory in the shadows of the mighty Monach Peak.
Don’t forget about the parties back in town once the final racer has crossed the finish line!
Need a break from Wengen? Head back down the mountainside and explore the Lauterbrunnen and Grindelwald, two of Switzerland’s most picturesque villages.
Stay:
Hotel Regina - A four-star boutique experience, this quaint Victorian hotel is located near the train station and offers visitors all of the comforts that they could ever desire, including a spa, wine bar, and more. It’s worth the splurge!
Hotel Bernerhof - Need something a bit cheaper? The Hotel Bernerhof is likely the best bang for your buck.
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Visit the Jungfraujoch - Take a walk through the ice palace, stand in awe at the Sphinx Observation Deck, or hit a golf ball off of Europe’s highest train station! Follow the link for everything you need to know.
Snow Fun Park - If skiing isn’t your thing, that’s ok! Head up to the Snow Fun Park for a tubing or sledding experience you won’t soon forget!
Getting There:
Arriving via train is the best way, but if traveling by car then park at the garage in Lauterbrunnen and hop on the rails from there.
Wengen, Switzerland
6. SAALFELDEN, AUSTRIA
Austria’s Epicenter of Winter Sports
Compared to other places in Austria and nearby Switzerland, Saalfelden may be considered by some as “off the beaten path,” but it’s certainly not a place you’ll want to overlook.
Located just an hour away from Salzburg, this area dates back to neolithic times and is an epicenter for winter sports.
Test your skills on the rodelbahn track as you race down the mountain using nothing but a wooden toboggan (helmet and goggles recommended, but not required), cross country ski along the walking paths turned trails or hit the alpine slopes.
Skiing is Austria’s most popular sport which means there will be plenty of options around, but I’d recommend Hinterreit for a more local experience.
No gondolas, no chairlifts, no lines. Simply a snow-covered farm with a couple of t-bars, cows in the stables, and an inviting family-friendly atmosphere.
Once sufficiently tired from a day of fun, be sure to head to the Bauernhof Brandstatthof Apartments at the top of the road for a well deserved afternoon schnitzel.
Stay:
Sport Chalet Maria Alm - Apartment accommodation with a full kitchen located in the neighboring town of Maria Alm. Complete with a sauna, gym and friendly staff.
Play:
Ski at Hinterreit - A family run area that’s friendly for all levels. You’ll find no gondolas or chairlifts here, only a great and casual skiing experience!
Rodel in neighboring Leogang - Buckle up for a wild ride… and maybe take a shot or two of schnapps to calm the inner voice that’s telling you to turn around and walk back down!
Getting There:
Salzburg is the closest airport, however Saalfelden is easily accessible via train from cities such as Innsbruck, Munich, and Zurich.
Rodeling in Saalfelden, Austria
Have you been to any of these destinations before? Do you have memorable winter trips of your own? Let me know in the comments below!
Until next time, stay safe & happy travels.
Here’s how I stay warm during my winter travels!
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Mulled Wine: Everything you need to know to bring the holiday cheer
Mulled wine has been around for ages, but it hasn't always been synonymous with Christmas. Here's everything you need to know about this popular holiday drink, including a recipe to make it yourself. Cheers!
It’s official: winter is here.
That means it’s time for gingerbread cookies, long shopping lines, and cozying up next to the fireplace… oh, and mulled wine!
If you’ve wandered the Christmas markets throughout Europe during the holidays, then you surely know what I’m talking about. It’s the gold-standard of holiday cheer these days and has carved out a slice of European Christmas culture alongside gift-giving and leaving cookies and milk for Santa.
For those of you that have no idea what I’m referring to, allow me the privilege of introducing you to my favorite holiday alcoholic drink and a sure-fire way to tolerate the in-laws.
Here’s everything you need to know about mulled wine!
A BRIEF HISTORY OF MULLED WINE
Thought to have originated as far back as the 2nd century, mulled wine was created by the Romans as a way to fight off the cold winters. As they expanded their empire throughout Europe, so too did their love for this warm drink.
Popularity continued to grow during the middle ages and the recipe expanded. Europeans began mixing the wine with various herbs and flowers as a way to not only stay warm during long winters but also provide a natural boost to their immune systems.
It’s worth noting that sources of wine were limited back in those days, so it’s likely that the spices had a second and, some may argue more important, function: making the drink more palatable.
As is the case with all great fads, the desire for mulled wine faded over time. It wasn’t until the 1890s when the drink became associated with Christmas and popularity skyrocketed.
Suddenly merchants across Europe began developing their unique recipes to share within their towns and, once distributing their product with festive bottles, mulled wine’s resurgence was in full effect and has continued to spread like wildfire beyond Europe’s borders.
Christmas Market in Salzburg, Austria
WHY IT MATTERS
It matters because mulled wine’s popularity is stronger than ever. Visit any Christmas market in the world and you’ll surely notice a crowd gathered around a table, sipping on a mug and laughing the night away. It’s no longer a matter of if you’ll ever have the chance to try this beautiful blend of wine, fruit, and spices, rather when you will do so.
I was fortunate enough to spend a Christmas over in Austria, meandering between markets and sampling the various recipes as I went.
Regardless of location, whether a large city such as Innsbruck or a smaller town, mulled wine (along with mulled cider, its holiday-sibling) was the staple of each celebration.
For foreigners such as myself, it served as a way to stay warm while aimlessly wandering between the artisan stalls, searching for the perfect gift to bring home, but for the locals, it was much more.
It served as an after-work event, a gathering of neighbors, and a place for family reunions. The drink has quickly become synonymous with good times and holiday cheer.
As much as I enjoyed being able to shop through the expansive markets, I much preferred the smaller villages where the events were centered around the social aspect and nothing more. Simply walk to the town square, grab a mug of mulled wine, snack on a brat, and chat with friends. It was a great way to experience the local Christmas culture!
Christmas Market - Innsbruck, Austria
How to Make Your Own
Several different variations exist as the popularity has grown over the years but, traditionally speaking, mulled wine is made using red wine.
INGREDIENTS:
1 bottle of red wine - 750ml (merlot or cab sauv typically works best)
1 orange - sliced into rounds (plus more for garnish)
6 whole cloves
3 cinnamon sticks (plus more for garnish)
3 star anise
1/4 cup honey
1/2 cup brandy (optional)
DIRECTIONS:
Over medium heat, combine all ingredients into a saucepan
Bring to a simmer (not boil) and reduce heat to low. Simmer over low heat for 10 minutes
Once finished, strain the liquid
Serve warm and garnish with an orange slice and cinnamon sticks
Enjoy and go back for more!
It’s that simple! Whip yourself up a batch at your next family gathering, enjoy the company of others, and bring a slice of European history into your home this holiday season. Bottoms up!
Do you have a story from a Christmas market around the world? Have you created your own unique mulled wine recipe? Let me know in the comments below! I’d love to hear about it.
As always, stay safe & happy travels.
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