Who says winter has to be all about battling the cold? Embrace the season with getaways that feel like a warm hug, whether through cozy settings, indulgent comforts, or stunning winter scenery. Here are some of our favorite winter escapes, both domestic and international, designed to warm your soul—even if the temps are freezing. Here’s some of our favorite trips & destinations! ✈️✨

1. Cozy Cabin Retreats 🏡🌲

  • Domestic: Lake Tahoe (California/Nevada), Asheville (North Carolina), White Mountains (New Hampshire)
  • International: Banff (Canada), Hallstatt (Austria), Lapland (Finland)

Why We Love It: There’s something magical about snuggling up in a cabin with a roaring fire, a cup of cocoa, and snow falling outside. Perfect for those seeking peace, scenic views, and a chance to unplug from the daily grind. It’s cozy, romantic, and ideal for winter hikes or simply lounging with a good book.

2. Spa & Wellness Escapes 🧖‍♀️💆‍♂️

  • Domestic: Miraval Arizona, Ojo Caliente (New Mexico), The Greenbrier (West Virginia)
  • International: Blue Lagoon (Iceland), Como Shambhala Estate (Bali), Baden-Baden (Germany)

Why We Love It: Winter is the perfect excuse to pamper yourself. Warm saunas, mineral hot springs, therapeutic massages—it’s self-care at its finest. These escapes offer relaxation and rejuvenation, ideal for unwinding after the holiday hustle.

3. Alpine Adventures 🎿🏔️

  • Domestic: Aspen (Colorado), Jackson Hole (Wyoming), Stowe (Vermont)
  • International: Chamonix (France), Zermatt (Switzerland), Niseko (Japan)

Why We Love It: Whether you’re into skiing, snowboarding, or just après-ski vibes, alpine destinations offer breathtaking mountain scenery and cozy lodges. Great for adventure seekers who also appreciate fireside cocktails and hot tubs with a view.

4. City Escapes with Winter Charm 🏙️✨

  • Domestic: New York City (New York), Chicago (Illinois), Charleston (South Carolina)
  • International: Prague (Czech Republic), Vienna (Austria), Quebec City (Canada)

Why We Love It: Cities come alive in winter with festive lights, ice skating rinks, and seasonal markets. You’ll enjoy world-class dining, cultural events, and cozy cafés without the peak-season crowds. Perfect for those who love the hustle and bustle with a side of charm.

5. Sun-Soaked Winter Getaways ☀️🌴

  • Domestic: Key West (Florida), Palm Springs (California), Maui (Hawaii)
  • International: Tulum (Mexico), Canary Islands (Spain), Phuket (Thailand)

Why We Love It: Sometimes, the best way to deal with winter is to skip it entirely. These sun-drenched destinations offer sandy beaches, tropical drinks, and warm breezes—perfect for thawing out both body and soul. A great mood booster if the winter blues are setting in.

6. Storybook Villages & Christmas Markets 🎄🏰

  • Domestic: Leavenworth (Washington), Frankenmuth (Michigan), Solvang (California)
  • International: Strasbourg (France), Rothenburg ob der Tauber (Germany), Colmar (France)

Why We Love It: If you love fairy-tale vibes, these destinations deliver with cobblestone streets, twinkling lights, and festive markets. Perfect for sipping mulled wine, shopping for handmade gifts, and soaking up old-world charm. Ideal for holiday lovers and romantics alike.

7. Northern Lights Chasing 🌌❄️

  • Domestic: Fairbanks (Alaska), Isle Royale (Michigan)
  • International: Tromsø (Norway), Abisko (Sweden), Reykjavik (Iceland)

Why We Love It: Witnessing the Northern Lights is a bucket-list experience. Yes, it’s cold, but the stunning, colorful skies make it worth bundling up. Ideal for adventurers and photographers seeking nature’s most magical light show.

8. Cozy Coastal Getaways 🌊🧥

  • Domestic: Cannon Beach (Oregon), Cape Cod (Massachusetts), Carmel-by-the-Sea (California)
  • International: Cinque Terre (Italy), Amalfi Coast (Italy), Lofoten Islands (Norway)

Why We Love It: The beach isn’t just for summer. Coastal towns in winter are peaceful, dramatic, and perfect for quiet reflection. Think long walks, cozy seafood shacks, and crashing waves under moody skies. A serene escape from the everyday hustle.

9. Winter Wine Country Tours 🍷❄️

  • Domestic: Napa Valley (California), Willamette Valley (Oregon), Finger Lakes (New York)
  • International: Bordeaux (France), Mendoza (Argentina), Douro Valley (Portugal)

Why We Love It: Fewer crowds, intimate tastings, and picturesque vineyard views dusted with snow—what’s not to love? Perfect for wine enthusiasts who enjoy cozy fireplaces, robust reds, and scenic sipping sessions.

10. Winter Festivals Worth Traveling For 🎭🎆

  • Domestic: Sundance Film Festival (Utah), Winter Carnival (Minnesota), Saranac Lake Ice Palace (New York)
  • International: Harbin Ice Festival (China), Carnival of Venice (Italy), Quebec Winter Carnival (Canada)

Why We Love It: Festivals add excitement to winter travel with unique cultural experiences, dazzling displays, and lively entertainment. Great for social butterflies and culture enthusiasts looking to dive into something extraordinary.

Wherever you choose to escape this winter, may it be filled with warmth, wonder, and a little extra coziness. ✨🏔️🌍