Published on
November 3, 2025
When winter rolls in, Europe transforms into a playground of snow‑covered landscapes, cozy lodges and timeless traditions. If you’re craving more than just downhill runs, here are 10 destinations that offer sleigh rides, snowshoeing, spas and peaceful escapes. They’ll carry you beyond the ski slopes into an experience of winter magic.
Sleigh Rides in Zakopane, Poland
High in the Tatra Mountains, Zakopane offers fairytale‑winter charm with horse‑drawn sleigh rides through the snow, toboggan runs lit up in the evening and a giant ice maze in a seasonal theme park. After your outdoor adventures, the Chochołowskie thermal baths await—open‑air pools, saunas and hot‑stone massages under snowy skies. Your stay might be at a lodge that blends Alpine woodwork with local craft rugs and traditional Polish fare.
Snowmobiling & Snowshoeing in Žabljak, Montenegro
Montenegro’s winter side is wild and lesser known. From a base in Žabljak, right inside a glacial high‑landscape, you can snowmobile across frozen plateaux, strap on snowshoes to explore silent forests, and relax in a hotel spa with a Finnish sauna and hammam. The beauty here lies in both the scenery and the stillness.
Lakes & Valleys in Slovenia
Slovenia offers a varied winter break: start in vibrant Ljubljana, then switch to the tranquil Logar Valley for snow‑capped mountains, hushed forests and a top‑notch spa stay. A scenic Alpine train ride rounds out the journey. For those who want a mix of culture, nature and wellness, this hits all three.
Trains & Trekking in St Moritz, Switzerland
Yes, St Moritz is glamorous—but it also has peaceful wings. Opt for hill hikes instead of piste crowds, ride the mountain trains through frozen panoramas and settle into a wellness‑focused hotel with saunas and quiet lounges. The balance of scenery, service and serenity is what makes it special.
Snowshoeing in the Lechtal & Tyrol, Austria
For an off‑beat winter break, consider guided snowshoe walks in the Tyrolean Lechtal valley. Away from the bustle of big ski resorts, you’ll hike through high‑alpine terrain, break for Käsespätzle at mountain huts and finish with a torchlit evening walk plus a warming Glühwein. It’s immersive and calm.
Lakeside Charm & Cheese Caves in Annecy, France
Annecy delivers winter in a slightly gentler way. The lakeside town glows with fairy lights, nearby mountain villages offer cheese‑cave tours, and the chateau sits sentinel above the scene. Combine soft outdoor activity with culture, food and comfortable hotel stays for a well‑rounded winter escape.
Farmstay in Trentino, Italy
In the Italian Alps of Trentino, a small rural chalet‑style stay offers warm wood interiors, homemade breakfasts and the option of dog‑sledding through forests or skating on frozen lakes. It’s slower‑paced, intimate and perfect for travellers who want winter, but on their own rhythm.
Traditional Log Cabins in Dalarna, Sweden
Sweden’s Dalarna region invites you into a winter fairy‑tale of log cabins, snow‑lined forests, reindeer walks, dog‑sledding and wood‑fire evenings. The landscape feels timeless, and the experience, deeply restful. It’s ideal if your winter vision is quiet beauty rather than high‑speed thrill.
Hearty Hiking & Mountain Food in Saxon Switzerland, Germany
Eastern Germany’s sandstone cliffs and forested peaks may not scream “ski resort”, but they offer serious winter atmosphere. Think snow‑dusted pines, timber‑framed inns, long walks between dramatic rock formations and hearty meals of sausage, Spätzle and marzipan. It’s a hearty break for the body and soul.
Culinary Vercors, France
For food lovers who still want winter scenery, France’s Vercors national park nails both. A stylish converted farmhouse hotel with a Michelin‑starred restaurant, hot‑tub time after snow outings and forested slopes nearby. The option here is less about adrenaline, more about luxuriating in snow and service.
What These Trips Share
Each of these destinations shares some key features:
- Winter landscapes: snow‑covered forests, mountains, lakes or valleys set the mood.
- Activities beyond skiing: sleigh rides, snowshoeing, dog‑sledding, scenic rail rides—great for non‑skiers too.
- Wellness & comfort: spas, saunas, warm hotels and good food play a strong role.
- Local character: small villages, regional food, traditions that reflect place rather than just “resort life”.
Choosing the Right Winter Holiday for You
Ask yourself what kind of winter you want:
- Want thrill + scenery? Look at places like Zakopane or St Moritz.
- Want peace + nature + wellness? Consider Sweden, Trentino or Lechtal.
- Love food + ambiance? Annecy and Vercors are standout.
- Prefer walks over lifts? Saxon Switzerland and Slovenia offer gentle access.
Final Word
Winter in Europe need not be all about piste queues and apres‑ski parties. The magic is in the snow‑crowded firs, the quiet of a sleigh ride, the glow of a spa fire or the crunch of snowshoes on fresh terrain. These ten destinations give you that magic—and give you choice. Whether you’re travelling with family, friends or solo, you’ll find a winter holiday that suits your pace and spirit.
