Tromso, Norway
Also known as the capital of the Arctic, Tromso is your next favorite winter destination. The biggest city in the Northern Norway is the best place to admire the Aurora Borealis one of the main attractions in the Arctic Circle. Incidentally Tromso drops in the zone where the Northern Lights are visible for about 6 hours a day! There are numerous of other activities that include museums, great food and picturesque Nordic views as well.
Hallstatt, Austria
Situated on the banks of the Hallstatter lake, the idyllic village has a very long history, that dates back thousands of years. Hallstatt also has the oldest known salt mine and has been producing salt since the Late Neolithic Age. In winter the village attracts skiers and snowboarders, who come to enjoy the snow and mountains. The salt mine and its tower, from which a gorgeous panoramic views open, offers a fun day trip for the families.
The romantic village is a popular tourist attraction, since it provides a surprising amount of entertainment.
Igloo Village Kakslauttanen, Finland
Surrounded with Urho Kekkonen National Park, found in Lapland the Santa Clause land the hotel is unique indeed. The separate glass igloos offer privacy, great views behind the windows and exclusive experience. Besides visiting Santa there are many fun winter activities the guests can choose from.
To explore the surroundings go on a safari with huskies, reindeer or snowmobiles. Ice-fishing and skiing are also very popular. And, of course, you will get the real Nordic winter.
Banff, Canada
Embedded in the middle of National Park and surrounded with mountainous landscape. The town is a popular tourist attraction, providing plenty of picturesque sites and activities, that include climbing, skiing, cycling and more. Meanwhile Banff Avenue is at the heart of the town. It features numerous cafes, restaurants, shops and museums. The main street features historic architecture, which is interesting to explore.
Jokkmokk, Sweden
The town is found in the Arctic Circle and provides a true winter, with lots of snow and low temperatures. It has been a center of trade for indigenous Sami people, who would come to the Jokkmokk's Winter Market trade reindeer skins. The next market is coming soon. Meanwhile in the restaurants visitors can try traditional Sami foods: reindeer meat, morels and poached char fish served with forest herbs.
Made by an experienced sculptor, the ice houses welcome visitors to spend a night in this authentic hut. Temperatures drop around -5o C at night, but guests are given thermal sleeping bags and reindeer skin that keep them warm. This is one of the most challenging yet exciting winter destinations for sure!
Cortina d'Ampezzo, Italy
The place is often referred as the most beautiful ski destination in the world. The dramatic landscape is defined by the Dolomites. Italians are masters of aesthetics and there is plenty of it here: from the nature, to the fancy boutiques, restaurants and hotels. Also a good place to find some fine wines.
Hamnoy, Norway
The oldest fishing village in the stunning Lofoten archipelago is small, but unbelievably beautiful. It is considered to be one of the most picturesque villages in the municipality of Moskenes, which is also a popular tourist destination due to its scenic and unspoiled nature. Visitors are accommodated in the original fishermen cabins the oldest one is from the 1890s. Today all the facilities are installed inside, including internet, and provide a cozy stay in this wild region. Tourists can rent boats and bikes, go hiking and fishing winter is the cod season. Local museums and galleries introduce to the culture and history of the region.
Jamnik, Slovenia
Situated on the Jelovica Plateau, the small village is a truly picturesque place in the country. The location is indeed stunning: the plateau features lush forests, part of the Ljubljana Basin, surrounded with Julian Alps from north and the Kamnik Alps from the east. The church of Saints Primus and Felician is the most famous attraction here. Built on the top of a hill, overlooking those wonderful panoramic views, the sanctuary must move the soul.
Breidavik, Iceland
Here the most westerly church in Europe is found! Situated on the beach Breidavik church is exposed to the severe weather and is surrounded with fjords. The guesthouses are also scattered in the breathtaking environment of this region. Puffin-watching is the main attraction to this small community, as well as nature the dramatic coast varies from the steep cliffs to the sandy beaches.