By Audrey Tan
Even if you’re more of a beach holiday kind of person, you can’t deny the enchanting feeling of visiting a place that’s covered by a glistening blanket of snow. The still, silent atmosphere as snowflakes gradually fall around you invokes a feeling you must experience at least once in your life. Need more convincing? Keep reading!
By the end of this post, we’ll explore five of the most breathtaking winter destinations for an unforgettable holiday experience. These places will leave you in awe from the moment you arrive, instilling a feeling of peacefulness once you breathe in the fresh, crisp air.
Zermatt, Switzerland
Nestled amidst the lofty peaks of the Swiss Alps lies Zermatt, a picturesque Alpine village that exudes an otherworldly charm. The town is uniquely located at an altitude of 10,000 feet above sea level and sits just below the iconic Matterhorn peak. Despite being high up in the mountains, it houses boutique shops, hotels and restaurants thanks to its lively apres-ski scene.
Everything feels like a fairy tale once you arrive. If you’ve never tried skiing or any other type of snow sport, this is the perfect place to give it a go. But if you prefer a more laid-back holiday, simply existing in such a magical location will be enough to rejuvenate the soul.
Jigokudani Monkey Park, Japan
The Jigokudani Monkey Park in Japan offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance to witness wild “snow monkeys” in their natural habitat, bathing in the hot springs to stay warm. Experts say that these adorable red-faced creatures are actually Japanese Macaques, and you’ll have a unique chance to be up close and personal with them as they hang out and do their own thing.
While the Macaques are a popular attraction, they’re just one of the many draws that make this destination a must-visit. The park itself is stunning, especially when covered in snow. The area’s volcanic activity creates enchanting hot springs that envelop the surroundings in a mystical haze.
Tallinn, Estonia
Estonia is a great place to visit all year round, especially during the winter when the mediaeval city of Tallinn transforms into an even more breathtaking, snowy mythical land. Winter nights in Tallinn may be dark, but there’s lots to do. Plan your visit from November to December and participate in the town’s exciting festivities that add to its extraordinary charm.
From ice skating in the Old Town, wandering around the charming street and Christmas markets, to indulging in warm cups of mulled wine and traditional Estonian pancakes—a relaxing winter holiday in Tallinn sounds like a dream.
The Frozen Waterfalls At Rjukan, Norway
Located three hours from Oslo, Rjukan is a small mountain town in the south of Norway. Famous for its mountain attractions, Rjukan is also a haven for waterfall enthusiasts. Here is where you can find an impressive collection of waterfalls, 171 of them, to be exact. During winter, the waterfalls become completely frozen, creating a unique display of icicles and the perfect conditions for a one-of-a-kind adventure—ice climbing.
The city has a rich and interesting history. In fact, the town itself hides in a narrow valley, so narrow that it doesn’t see much sun for at least half of the year, adding to its mystique and allure. In 2013, sun mirrors were installed so the residents could enjoy some sun in the city centre!
Harbin, China
As the winter season approaches, Harbin, located in the northeastern region of China, transforms into a magical wonderland of festivities and snow. Tourists flock here yearly to stare in awe at the enormous and intricate ice sculptures at the Harbin International Ice and Snow Festival. It’s the perfect family-friendly winter holiday because there’s lots to see and do for everyone.
Learn to ski at one of the many ski resorts or walk around the parks and streets. The ice sculptures are lit at night, putting on a gorgeous display visible from afar. To keep warm and wind down after a day of exploring, visit one of the many hot springs for a well-deserved soak and end the day with a satisfying hotpot meal.
So, are you packing your bags yet? If it’s your first time visiting a winter location, make sure that you pack the right clothes and essentials to keep yourself warm.
Winter has the power to completely transform a place and offer a unique visiting experience that you can’t get at other times of the year. The festive season adds further to the charm as most places are adorned with decorations, festivities, and the Christmas spirit giving you a warm feeling inside despite the cold temperatures. Plus, compared to the summer, there are usually fewer tourists travelling, so you can skip the sea of people and stroll around at your own pace.