Bourg-St-Maurice view from Les Arcs ski resort by Dmitry A. Mottl (creative commons)
Most travellers plan their holidays around summer activities like relaxing on the beach or hiking along the coast. While there is no question that a tropical holiday can be plenty of fun, that’s not the only option available. Winter is a great time of year to go on a trip, especially if you want to try out some snow-based recreation activities. Whether you are a beginner, an expert on the slopes, you have an unlimited budget for international travel or you want to stay closer to home, there is a destination that will be perfect for you. Plus, there is a long list of fun winter sports for you to try including ice-skating, skiing and snowboarding.
Go Skiing at Les Arcs, France
With a location high in the French Alps, it’s not hard to imagine what a great skiing destination Les Arcs really is. Opened in 1968, this ski resort is known as one of the great family resorts of Europe, and there is no shortage of facilities, amenities and accommodations for thousands of travellers from across the globe. There are more than 300 miles of runs available in Les Arcs, and roughly half of them are suitable for beginners. Families love Les Arcs because of the child-friendly ski school as well as because of the restaurants and attractions geared to visitors of all ages. In the off chance that there is no snow in Les Arcs, which offers a breathtaking view of Mont Blanc from the 171 lifts, more than 400 cannons can make snow overnight for fresh powder in the morning.
Try Ice-Skating at Rockefeller Center, New York City
If you happen to be in New York City during the winter, there is no question that you should head straight to Rockefeller Center. This big complex is famed for its magical Christmas decorations, but the outdoor ice-skating rink is open from November all the way through to the end of the February. You can rent skates right at the rink, and there are even lessons available if you haven’t tried skating before. Bundle up, grab a friend and make some memories at what is probably the world’s most famous ice rink.
Ice-skating at the Rockefeller Centre, New York (Creative Commons)
Snowboarding at Whistler Blackcomb in British Columbia, Canada
Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America, and it boasts almost 5,000 acres of skiable area. It should come as no surprise, then, to learn that this destination outside of Vancouver is one of the most popular snowboarding spots on the planet. Skiing is possible, but it is snowboarders who rave about the efficient lifts, the terrain parks for jumps and the expert teachers who run the onsite snowboarding lessons. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced boarder, this is a scenic destination with amazing views from the runs.
Cross Country Skiing in the Tasmanian Wilderness, Australia
There is no need to get an international flight just to go skiing, and there are several places throughout Australia where you can hit the slopes throughout the winter. For cross country skiing, one of the top destinations in the country is the Tasmanian Wilderness. Around the base of the beautiful Cradle Mountain, you can ski along snowy pathways and take in the breathtaking scenery. Despite being a UNESCO designated World Heritage Area, the Tasmanian Wilderness is typically free from crowds. Even after a fresh snowfall, you will be able to ski in relative peace. Cross country skiing is ideal for beginners, and you don’t need extensive lessons to get the hang of it. If you don’t want to splurge on a trip to the Alps just to go skiing, stick closer to home by cross country skiing right here in the Tasmanian Wilderness.
Snowkiting in Odgen Valley, Utah
This is perhaps one of the most unusual winter sports around, but it can be a ton of fun. Snowkiting starts just like snowboarding or downhill skiing, but a power kite gets you off the ground, and it feels like you are flying. In Ogden Valley, Utah, you can rent a kite and take lessons.
Whether you are heading abroad or staying closer to home, don’t set off on a winter sporting adventure without insurance. Getting injured on the slopes or losing your expensive gear can ruin a trip. You can compare travel insurance quotes easily before you go. With peace of mind, you can better enjoy your awesome holiday.
