When warm memories of a sun-soaked summer are all too distant, once-crunchy autumn leaves are turning damp underfoot, and the working week starts to feel like a relentless hamster wheel, it’s only natural for the mind to wander. Thoughts turn to a change of scenery: a winter holiday beckons. These days, thankfully, the binary distinction between the ‘summer’ and ‘winter’ holiday seasons is a little blurred anyway. Mood-boosting holidays – relaxing, luxurious, quiet, exciting, adventurous; whatever concoction you desire – are of course readily available all year round, and the choice is vast. Winter, however, being the yang to summer’s yin, is a standout time of year to get away, take stock, and recharge the batteries - in whichever fashion suits best. Here is our pick of some of the best destinations.
THE MALDIVES
Castaway fantasies are easily fulfilled in the Maldives, an enchanting archipelago scattered across a small section of the Indian Ocean. These sandy islets – nearly 500 miles away from the Indian subcontinent mainland; a 10-hour flight from London – are a standout place to get away if the gloom sets in at home. With an average winter temperature of 28°C, your bones will certainly be warmed and, between November and April, the seas are calm and there is little rain. The Maldives is notorious for its peppering of immaculate luxury resorts, so if unwinding and relaxation are paramount to your needs, almost every whim and desire will likely be catered for. Overwater bungalows and private island resorts are plentiful, while the best Maldives resorts offer all-inclusive packages with private pools, spa treatments, and underwater restaurants. For romantic getaways, sunset cruises and secluded beach experiences are available, while family holidays are also well catered for, with many resorts offering family-specific villas, kids’ activity clubs, and dolphin watching or glass-bottom boat tours. Though it's a popular holiday destination, the Maldives is never overrun–- its white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and luxury accommodation do not come cheap.
CHAMONIX
Chamonix – the iconic ski resort – is a byword for winter liberation: an ideal place for indulging in the incomparable feeling of rushing down a powdery-snow covered slope without a care in the world. Nestled in the French Alps, sitting at the foot of the Mont Blanc (the highest mountain in western Europe), not only is Chamonix stunning – especially with its white ‘winter coat’ on – but it is also in a wonderful European location. Near to the junction of France, Switzerland, and Italy, it pulls in visitors from all over the continent and far beyond, who flock here to experience a range of slopes that are suitable for all levels, from beginners to hardcore off-piste skiers and snowboarders. Beyond the likes of Vallée Blanche – a 20 km off-piste glacier descent with incredible views of the Mont Blanc massif – and Les Houches – a more family-friendly area with wooded slopes suitable for intermediates – there are other activities for non-skiers, especially winter hiking and snowshoeing trails that can lead you through breathtaking mountain paths and quietly atmospheric, snow-laden forests. Once you’ve had your fill of fresh air and adventure, time to warm up. The après-ski scene is famously vibrant – the bars, restaurants, and clubs of the La Folie Douce area are notably lively – but if you seek a genteel pace, there are fine dining options. Chamonix also boasts a superb range of high-end hotels and chalets, many with those all-important views of Mont Blanc, along with private hot tubs and spa treatments.
CAPE TOWN
When the southern sun casts its glow on the dramatic mountain backdrop of Cape Town, it’s hard to think of a more spectacular city location on earth in which to escape a Northern Hemisphere winter. Summer in Cape Town runs from December to February and, across these months, South Africa’s oldest city is utterly compelling: diverse, beautiful, and bustling. Long sunny days are spent exploring postcard-perfect beaches, world-class vineyards (Stellenbosch is one), a host of outdoor festivals, hiking routes in the hills near Table Mountain, and a wealth of rich culture. There is a progressive feel in Cape Town that only a big, modern city can provide: if stimulation is high on the agenda, then the cutting-edge art and design scene – along with a sophisticated food and wine scene – will deliver what you want in droves. Top-class hotels are also in rich supply and a range of options for shopping, especially markets, will stimulate the senses: at Greenmarket Square, in the heart of the city, there are African crafts and souvenirs while the Old Biscuit Mill, located in Woodstock, is popular with foodies and local artists selling their goods. South Africa’s history is infamous, and a day trip out to Robben Island - where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned – is very moving. Ferries leave from the V&A Waterfront, and guided tours give expert insight.
CALIFORNIA
If the Alps, Africa, or remote islands in the Indian Ocean aren’t quite what you’re looking for, then maybe the USA is: California to be precise. Entitled The Golden State – because of the explosive growth it experienced after the discovery of gold in 1848 (and the gorgeous coastal sunsets over the Pacific Ocean) – California has a phenomenal amount of variety over an expansive and geographically diverse area. With mild and sunny winters, especially in the south, lazing on the classic beaches of Los Angeles (Santa Monica, Venice beach, Malibu) while endlessly people-watching really is an experience to savour. LA also offers rare cultural delights, not least the obvious attractions of Hollywood – the epicentre of the film industry. Tours of celebrity homes in Beverly Hills are also highly entertaining. But, for real culture lovers, there is also world-class art across the state – San Francisco in particular – while for families with children, the amusement parks and aquariums are sensational: not least Disneyland in Anaheim and Universal Studios Hollywood. For those seeking real adventure, America tugs at those ‘road trip’ heartstrings – you can hire a convertible and cruise down the Pacific Coast road, where State Route 1 runs 550 miles from Leggett down to Malibu, with famously pretty views along much of the way.
COPENHAGEN
For many people, winter is all about being cosy. It’s a persuasive argument: as the cold wraps its icy fingers around you, embrace its transient beauty – momentarily – then rush indoors to get warm and comfortable. If this is your approach, then Copenhagen is a perfect winter escape. The Danish capital is the birthplace of hygge – the Danish idea of “cosiness” that is now wildly popular across the world. It might be a hugely successful export, but nowhere does it better. Right across this characterful city – in luxury hotels, hip restaurants, inviting cafes, and delicious pastry shops – this concept has been turned into a genuine art form. If you want to feel the joy of winter, Copenhagen has it.
Slogging through winter without a real break is tough: working clever means taking time out. Guaranteed and unadulterated sunshine with your feet up might do the trick, or a curveball experience to spike your adrenaline levels – perhaps a real recharge means a bit of both.
