Winter is a magical time of year, and for those who love the outdoors, it’s the perfect season to enjoy adrenaline-fueled adventures. From skiing in the Alps to snowmobiling across Iceland’s frozen landscapes, there’s no shortage of exciting ways to embrace the chill. Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking for the best snow holidays or a first-timer seeking a memorable getaway, winter activity holidays offer something for everyone.
So, if you’re ready to swap sandy beaches for snowy peaks, we’ve rounded up the best winter destinations to experience unforgettable adventures in the snow.
Winter activity holidays are trips designed around outdoor adventures in snowy, cold-weather destinations. These trips combine excitement and exploration, allowing travelers to take part in everything from skiing and snowboarding to dog sledding and ice climbing. Whether you prefer gliding down pristine slopes or exploring remote backcountry trails, winter snow holidays offer countless ways to embrace the elements.
What sets winter adventure holidays apart is the diversity of experiences available. One day, you could be carving your way down a powdery mountain, and the next, soaking in a geothermal hot spring beneath the Northern Lights. These holidays aren’t just for thrill seekers, they’re also ideal for nature lovers, photographers, and anyone who wants to experience a unique getaway.
Winter adventure holidays are for an array of travellers, providing something for everyone. Whether you’re an advanced skier or simply looking for a serene escape in beautiful surroundings, these breaks are great for an array of travel itineraries and perfect for the following:
Winter holiday destinations are great for families, with many offering family-friendly resorts to keep the whole clan entertained. Here, you’ll encounter activities tailored for kids and beginners with gentle sledging slopes, guided snowshoe walks, plus much more.
If you’re looking for a romantic getaway in a stunning setting, a cosy escape in the mountains is the perfect place to be. Cuddle up by the fire after days brimming with adventure, or head out to enjoy the endless snow sports on offer in these fantastic destinations.
With so much to see and do, winter breaks also make for an excellent choice for friends. Adventurous groups can enjoy everything from heli-skiing trips to lively après-ski scenes in world-renowned resorts.
For those craving a little serenity, winter snow breaks offer a chance to escape the hustle and bustle and reconnect with nature in some of the most serene places on earth.
No matter what type of getaway you’re looking for, winter escapes cater to an array of tastes and preferences, providing visitors with a ton of exciting activities.
Whether you’re ready to hit the slopes or seeking an icy adventure, these are some of the best winter destinations that offer the perfect backdrop for an action-packed getaway.
Canada is a paradise for winter enthusiasts. With vast mountain ranges, endless backcountry, and world-class ski resorts, it’s no wonder it tops the list of some of the best snow holidays.
Whistler, British Columbia, is a great place to start your snowy adventure. It is one of North America’s most renowned ski destinations. This beautiful spot also boasts over 8,000 acres of skiable terrain and a buzzing après-ski scene, great for those planning to partake in this favoured sport during their stay.
Another fantastic place to visit in Canada and a must-see among snowsport enthusiasts is Banff in Alberta. This is perfect for those looking for a mix of awe-inspiring scenery and thrilling activities. Think dog sledding, ice skating on frozen lakes, and skiing in the Rockies.
If you’d prefer to head off the beaten track, a trip to Revelstoke, British Columbia is the place for you. It is a mecca for backcountry skiing and snowboarding, with some of the deepest powder in North America, an ideal destination for avid skiers.
For the ultimate adventure, heli-skiing is an unforgettable way to explore untouched alpine terrain. Expert-guided excursions provide unparalleled access to pristine slopes, making Canada one of the top countries to visit in winter for thrill-seekers.
For those craving rugged wilderness and epic winter adventures, Alaska has it all. This remote destination offers everything from glacier hikes to snowmobiling across vast icy landscapes, an ideal destination for avid explorers.
If you’re looking for where to go in Alaska, be sure to check out Anchorage and Girdwood. Here, you’ll find Alyeska Resort, where skiers and snowboarders can enjoy diverse terrain and breathtaking views of the Chugach Mountains.
Visitors will also have the opportunity to catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights in Alaska, with Fairbanks being a popular spot to see the natural wonder. There are also a ton of other snowy adventures to enjoy here including dog sledding and ice fishing, providing a plethora of amazing things to do and see during your getaway.
With its unspoiled landscapes and intriguing wildlife, Alaska offers an unforgettable break. Whether you’re planning to disconnect from nature or partake in the many activities here, you’re sure to enjoy a stay in one of the world’s most breathtaking destinations.
When planning to explore Europe for your winter activity holiday, Switzerland is an excellent choice. The destination is synonymous with luxury breaks and is also one of the best destinations for outdoor enthusiasts. Explore snowy landscapes and incredible ski resorts in abundance during your time in Switzerland.
Known for its iconic views of the Matterhorn and its extensive ski terrain, Zermatt is a wonderful choice when planning your getaway in Switzerland. Visitors will discover some of the best skiing in Europe here, alongside a ton of other activities and attractions to keep the whole family entertained.
Verbier and St Moritz are also excellent options for those looking for where to visit in Switzerland. Verbier is great for those planning to enjoy challenging ski slopes and a lively nightlife scene. Whereas, St Moritz provides a glamorous winter snow holiday, blending world-class skiing with high-end luxury.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, Switzerland offers a range of winter activities such as snowshoeing, ice climbing, and tobogganing. This ensures that every traveller finds their perfect adventure.
While Spain is often associated with sun and beaches, the beautiful Sierra Nevada mountains also offer some of the best snow holidays in Europe. So, if you’re planning to explore another fantastic country in Europe during your winter escape, Spain should certainly be on your list.
The Sierra Nevada is just a stone’s throw from Granada, providing visitors with an excellent blend of outdoor adventure and intriguing attractions. This outstanding resort also offers sunny skiing with views of the Mediterranean Sea, perfect for those seeking a serene setting to enjoy an active break.
For those looking to combine winter sports with a dose of culture, Spain offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation.
Iceland is a land of extremes, and winter is no exception. From ice caves to glacier hikes, it’s one of the most adventurous places to go in winter. This bucket list destination provides visitors with an array of activities and attractions, making it a fantastic choice for the whole family.
Whether you’re looking to get out and active on the many hiking trails or simply sit back and enjoy the incredible surroundings, you’re sure to be impressed by all that Iceland has to offer.
Those visiting Iceland often start in Reykjavik. This is a fantastic place for those looking to head further afield to explore ice caves, soak in the Blue Lagoon, and chase the Northern Lights. There are plenty of tours available from Reykjavik, ensuring visitors don’t miss a thing during their time here.
If you’d prefer to immerse yourself in the natural wonders of Iceland, be sure to check out Vatnajökull Glacier. This outstanding place is perfect for ice climbing and snowmobiling adventures, a great way for outdoor explorers to see more of the country’s impressive terrain.
Iceland’s unique landscape offers a mix of adventure and tranquility, making it a top destination for winter lovers.
Norway’s stunning fjords and snow-covered landscapes create the perfect setting for winter adventures. This beautiful country has an array of activities and attractions waiting to be uncovered. Whether you’re chasing the Northern Lights or hoping to immerse yourself in natural wonders, Norway has something for all types of travellers.
Tromso is a favoured destination in Norway, attracting a ton of tourists each year and for good reason. The area is known for its spectacular Northern Lights displays, providing excellent sightings for those planning to catch a glimpse of the spectacle. There are also dog sledding excursions here, allowing for a unique way to see more of the pretty surroundings.
If you’re a keen photographer, a trip to Lofoten Islands won’t disappoint. Expect to encounter endless natural surroundings with dramatic scenery in abundance. Plus, for those looking to get out and active, there is also an array of excellent hiking opportunities here, another fantastic way to immerse yourself in all that this stunning destination has to offer.
France is home to some of the world’s most famous ski resorts and is a favorite destination for winter snow holidays. With a ton of amazing spots to choose from, you’ll find yourself needing more time just to experience all that this beautiful country has in store for you.
Chamonix, Val d’Isere and Megeve tend to be a few of the most popular ski resorts in France. With exceptional slopes, vibrant apres ski and luxury accommodations, visitors will enjoy a break brimming with adventure and rejuvenation when visiting these outstanding destinations.
With its blend of world-class resorts and diverse winter activities, France remains a top pick for winter enthusiasts.
For the ultimate winter adventure holiday, Antarctica offers an experience like no other. This remote destination provides an otherworldly trip, somewhere that few get the luxury to explore. With its untouched terrain, intriguing wildlife and icy temperatures, it makes for a wonderful choice for those planning an unmatched winter excursion.
Visitors can join expedition cruises in Antarctica, an excellent way to see all that this impressive part of the world has to offer. Explore the frozen wilderness, witness breathtaking icebergs, and encounter incredible wildlife during your journey. Plus, these trips also often come with experience guides, allowing you to learn more about Antarctica along the way.
Though not for the fainthearted, Antarctica is the ultimate destination for those looking to push the boundaries of adventure.
Whether you’re carving down pristine slopes, chasing the Northern Lights, or exploring icy wildernesses, winter activity holidays offer an incredible way to experience the world’s most stunning landscapes. From Canada’s powdery peaks to Iceland’s dramatic glaciers, these destinations provide a perfect blend of adventure and natural beauty. So grab your gear and get ready for an unforgettable winter escape!
If you’re an avid explorer looking for your next voyage, you’re in the right place. Backpacker Boy offers an array of extensive travel guides across the globe. These resources are packed with information, ensuring you make the most out of your next adventure with everything you need to know in mind.
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
© 2009-2025 – BACKPACKERBOY
WEBSITE DESIGN BY SEO TRAVEL
Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means we can earn a small commission when our visitors click on them. This helps us to keep our content free and accessible for everyone, but you’ll never be charged for engaging with them.
The Best Beaches in Mykonos 