What does Winter mean to you? Dark nights? Cold weather? Longing for the brighter days of Summer? How about laying on a golden sandy beach in the heart of The Caribbean or sitting by the fire whilst the smell of freshly baked croissants fills up the room of a cosy log cabin up in the Alps.
Whether it’s getting ready for the big jolly man in red to come down your chimney or recovering from the dull January blues, treat yourself to a Winter getaway this year. We have rounded up five fabulous destinations along with some activities to keep you entertained and wanting more. Don’t let Summer have all the fun.
Cotswolds, UK
Deep in the Southwest of England is this beautiful, serene area. The Cotswolds is filled with many different towns known for their stunning, picturesque architecture making you feel like you’re in a Hallmark Holiday Special.
Get into the Christmas spirit by sipping some Merry Liquor at The Cotswolds Distillery. Hidden in the countryside town of Shipston-on-Stour, the Cotswolds Distillery show you the art of spirit making. From Gin to Whisky, the Distillery workers pride themselves on making drinks filled with heart and happiness. If you book a guided tour, they will take you through the process of drink making, finishing off by trying a sip or two in their tasting room.
If you would like something a little less boozy, try visiting the Sudeley Castle Spectacle of Light in the lovely town of Winchcombe. Walk through the mesmerising trail of lights in this 1000-year-old historical sight. With over 10 award winning gardens, and ruins of the original castle, this will feel right out of a fairy tale.
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Edinburgh, UK
Looking for Lapland on your doorstep? Look no further than the great city of Edinburgh. Bustling with festivities like no other, you will never be out of options when exploring this phenomenal town. Starting off strong, there is the world-famous Christmas markets. Travelling down through the stalls, you’ll experience wonder like no other. Keep yourself cosy with a mulled wine or hot toddy, providing you with a taste sensation that you won't forget.
Want to see the beautiful scenery from above? Take a ride on the Ferris wheel, 60 metres in the air. Looking over the whole city, seeing it in all its Christmas glory. If you want to live out your Ice Princess fantasies, hire your skates and go to George Street Ice Rink. Whether you’re a whiz, or more like Bambi on ice, you can guarantee fun, and laughter will be had and remember, Torvill and Dean had to start somewhere!
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Chamonix, France
Chestnuts roasting on an open fire, Jack Frost nipping at your nose, Duolingo reminding you how to pronounce Bonjour in your ear, what better way to spend your holiday season than in the French alps, home of the most famous Ski resorts. Although the Alps are known for their spectacular snowy mountains, there is more than meets the eye. Soar through the winter wilderness on a sleigh pulled by huskies, living the life of the Father of Christmas himself, who knows? With a little bit of Christmas spirit, you could take off into the night sky too.
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Reykjavik, Iceland
We couldn’t make a list of things to do this Winter without including the magical phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis, also known as the Northern Lights. As one of the most enchanting sights in the world, the Northern Lights will have you captivated by the beautiful colours of heaven and earth dancing in the sky. Although the Northern Lights are around 365 days a year, there is something so divine experiencing it around the festive period.
After watching the Northern Lights, why not relax in the famous Blue Lagoon? Slather on a mud mask and float in the Volcanic pools that heat up to 100F/38C, what better way to unwind in one of the most majestic places.
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Take Vancouver in Forest Green
St Lucia, The Caribbean
If Winter sun is what you want, look no further than the gorgeous St Lucia. This beautiful Island in the West Indies, is the place to be for that much needed Vitamin D hit. Just imagine it now; walking down a shimmering sandy beach, water glistening in the sun, wind flowing through your hair, coconut drink in hand- did somebody say paradise?
If your stomach is grumbling, take a visit to the weekly food festivals filled with fresh Caribbean flavours that will drive any foodie mad. Don’t wait for Summer for sunshine, when you can get your sunshine now. Create your own bliss.
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