Top 5 Destinations For Luxury Winter Escapes
For those of us who don’t mind the cold, winter is the ideal season for luxury escapes. From skiing in Switzerland to spa retreats in Niseko and cruises around Antarctica, there are some truly incredible destinations to explore.
Combining exclusive accommodations with five-star service and bespoke experiences, luxury winter escapes provide the perfect opportunity for both adventure and relaxation. To help you plan your next winter getaway, here are 5 top luxury destinations to consider for your travels.
St. Moritz, Switzerland
World-renowned as the ‘birthplace of winter tourism’, St. Moritz is a premier destination when it comes to alpine escapes. Home to some of the most iconic slopes in the world, ranging from kid-friendly to expert level, St. Moritz is a Swiss gem that offers luxury at every corner.
Aside from its award-winning skiing, St. Moritz is also famous for its designer shopping scene. With a mix of high-end designer brands and independent boutiques, visitors can indulge their senses in the premier offerings of Versace, Prada and Louis Vuitton before heading back to relax in a cosy mountainside chalet.
For true foodies, St. Moritz is home to several exclusive Michelin restaurants. Ecco, for example, is known for its exquisite international dishes, and Da Vittorio in the Carlton Hotel specialises in Italian cuisine.
Niseko, Japan
Niseko is a popular ski resort area in Hokkaido, an island in Japan. The light, powdery snow is a major draw for skiing enthusiasts, as well as its spectacular mountainous terrain. Known as ‘the Aspen of Asia’, Niseko is one of the most desirable skiing destinations around the globe, and promises a winter paradise for every level of skier.
Niseko is comprised of four resorts on the mountain of Annupuri. Visitors can choose the resort that best aligns with their preferences, each offering incredible skiing and snowboarding trails, ryokan hotels and restaurants.
Onsen baths, or natural hot springs, are one of the most popular attractions of Niseko. As a volcanic region, there are plenty of onsens to choose from. Take a dip in the soothing waters after a day of hitting the slopes, followed by a massage treatment, looking out across the serene landscape.
Antarctica
Antarctica, the ‘final frontier’, is a unique destination for wintery escapes. With luxury cruises, travellers can venture to this extreme continent in comfort and style, encountering some of the most fascinating landscapes and wildlife in the world.
Whether you kayak through tight glacial waterways, scuba dive into the icy depths, or camp out on the ice to capture sight of playful penguins, Antarctica cruises offer some incredible once-in-a-lifetime experiences.
If you’re venturing to Antarctica from South America, explore Argentina to Antarctica cruises for a seamless journey. With cruise liners setting sail from various parts of the country, including Buenos Aires and Ushuaia, you can enjoy ultimate comfort onboard, with spacious cabins, five-star service and a range of fantastic excursions.
British Columbia, Canada
British Columbia is a beautiful province on the west coast of Canada and is a dream destination for winter luxury, especially if you love modern lodges, unique skiing experiences and breathtaking scenery.
From the upscale villages of Whistler to Revelstoke’s remote and rugged outskirts, British Columbia offers a variety skiing spot to choose from. With thick powder slopes, oceanfront spas and private chalets, theres endless opporunitied for luxury here.
Heliskiing has become one of the most exclusive ways to explore British Columbia. As you fly over the glistening terrain in a private chopper, enjoy access to lesser-known routes for a truly unique experience. Visitors can choose Canada Heli Skiing tour packages, which include transfers, luxury accommodation and incredible cuisine for the duration of your trip.
Aspen, USA
Nestled in the heart of the Colorado Rockies, Aspen has long been known as a glamorous winter playground for the rich and famous. Alongside its four distinct mountains, which offer terrain for beginners to expert levels, Aspen is home to various designer boutiques, high-end restaurants and exclusive nightlife venues.
Aspen offers access to four separate ski areas, including Aspen Mountain, the Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass, providing slopes for every ability. Whether you’re seeking guided instruction on gentle slopes or a challenging mogul run, every guest is catered for in Aspen.
After a day outside, visitors can unwind in style. Aspen’s après-ski scene is legendary, with cosy cocktail lounges, exclusive private clubs and art galleries. Not to mention indulgent spa treatments at luxury accommodations like Little Nell or Hotel Jerome.
Summary
With sparkling white landscapes, cosy accommodation and exclusive activities, luxury winter escapes promise a getaway like no other. Whether you’re heliskiing down a mountain pass in Canada, whale watching from a kayak in Antarctica or sipping cocktails in a Swiss après-ski bar, the opportunities for adventure and indulgence are bountiful. Be sure to visit some of the destinations mentioned in this guide to experience true winter wonderland bliss.