We might be used to braais, beaches and sunshine back home but sometimes, we crave something different.
Tromsø/Bjørn Are With Andreassen/Unsplash
If you’ve ever dreamed of experiencing a true northern winter that we usually only see in films, these five destinations offer that and each provide its own kind of magic.
Tromsø
Norway
Tromsø, located above the Arctic Circle in northern Norway, is one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights. Between November and March, the city becomes a glowing base for Arctic experiences. You can choose from a range of activities from husky sledding and snowmobiling to reindeer sleigh rides and Sami cultural tours. While the sun barely rises during “polar night” in deep winter, the twilight hours paint the sky in dreamy pastels. Despite the cold, Tromsø feels warm thanks to its cosy cafés, modern Nordic design and welcoming locals.
Best flight route: Fly via Johannesburg or Cape Town to Oslo, then connect to Tromsø.
Furano/Will Xiang/Unsplash
Furano
Japan
Japan is a dream for snow lovers, and while Niseko gets the international buzz, Furano offers a quieter, more authentic experience in the heart of Hokkaido. Known for its light, dry powder snow, Furano is perfect for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. But you don’t have to hit the slopes to enjoy the town. There are also onsen hot springs, local ramen shops and snowy views to just look at and enjoy with a hot drink. Compared to other Japanese ski-towns, it’s less touristy and more budget-friendly.
Best flight route: Fly to Tokyo or Sapporo, then take a domestic flight or train ride to Furano.
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Mont-Tremblant
Canada
Located in Quebec’s Laurentian Mountains, Mont-Tremblant is like a postcard brought to life. Cobbled streets, colourful buildings, French-speaking locals and a pedestrian-only village give it a distinctly European feel. It gives you the best of both worlds, but with all the snow and hearty food you’d expect from a Canadian winter. Whether you’re skiing down well-groomed slopes, trying ice skating or tubing or sipping maple whiskey by a fire, this charming town makes you want to stay.
Best flight route: Fly via Europe or the US to Montreal, then drive or shuttle 1.5 hours to Tremblant.
Furano/Jonny Gios/Unsplash
Cumbria (Lake District)
UK
While the UK doesn’t always promise deep snow, the Lake District in winter has a moody magic all of its own. In Cumbria, the hills turn frosty and lakes mirror the gloomy winter sky beautifully. This is literary countryside, with charming stone cottages. If you’re a bookworm, you’ll love the fact that this beautiful place is home to Beatrix Potter and William Wordsworth. Make sure to suit up with warm, waterproof boots and woolly hats. Pub lunches beside a roaring fire are a must.
Best flight route: Fly into London or Manchester, then train or drive to the Lake District.
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Prague
Czechia
Prague in winter looks like something from a snow globe with its old stone bridges, mulled wine stalls and medieval streets. It’s a great pick for first-time winter travellers because it’s compact, walkable and atmospheric. In December, the city’s Christmas markets shine with fairy lights and the smell of cinnamon is inescapable. In January and February, the crowds thin and hotel rates drop, making it perfect for a more peaceful escape.
Best flight route: Fly via Doha, Istanbul or a European hub to Prague.
There’s nothing quite like your first Northern winter. In the right destination, winter becomes a season to embrace rather than escape.
Source: Getaway
