We might be clinging onto the last of summer, but it’s not too early to think about winter travel.
Eternally popular with Irish holiday makers, Iceland, Finland and Sweden are dream winter destinations for a reason, as many go in search of a glimpse of colourful skies during Northern Lights displays.
Iceland and Lapland [an area crossing over into Sweden, Norway, Finland and Russia] "regularly sit atop travellers’ wish lists", says Nicholas Smith, holidays digital director at Thomas Cook.
"While these destinations are often associated with festive family breaks, this year tells a different story – they’re proving to be idyllic escapes for two, with more than 62% of bookings with Thomas Cook made by pairs seeking a magical winter getaway."
And the timing might be perfect. "Right now is actually a smart time to book a European winter break because most transport companies have released their schedules and fares for the season, so you can see all the options clearly," says LP Maurice, CEO of travel startup Busbud, adding that prices are generally better when you book early for winter travel.
"Iceland, Sweden, and Finland have become very popular with British travellers in winter because they offer experiences you really cannot get anywhere else. These countries are also surprisingly accessible with regular flights and well-connected transport networks, making it easier to explore remote areas without too much hassle.
Plus, "there is something special", Maurice says, about leaving the grey skies of home "for dramatic snowy landscapes and unique adventures that feel worth the trip."
So whether you’re a family, a couple, friends or a solo traveller, here are some great options for snowy getaways this winter.
Iceland
Booking a dream winter trip can be pricey, but Icelandair have just launched a new Northern Lights City Break holiday package from just €419pp from Ireland, including return flights, three nights’ accommodation and a guided Northern Lights tour, if booked before September 15. Additional day tours can include bathing in the world-famous Blue Lagoon or trekking through Raufarhólshellir’s lava tunnel.
Alternatively, explore Iceland’s wild Southern Highlands by sleeping in a luxury glass house so you can literally watch the sky from your bed. Off The Map offer a 4-day Panorama Glass Lodge Escape, self catering with a sauna and outdoor hot tub to keep you cosy in the depths of winter. Prices for three nights are from £3,699pp (roughly €4,280), excluding flights. Head out in the day for glacier snowmobiling, ice cave adventures or tour Iceland’s famous Golden Circle route.
Finland
The capital of Lapland, Rovaniemi, known as the hometown of Santa Claus, has plenty to offer visitors in search of a base for Arctic adventures and festive cheer for children.
Nestled high on Ounasvaara Fell in Rovaniemi, the 4* Lapland Hotels Sky Ounasvaara hotel combines doorstep skiing and (hopefully) Northern Lights. Its Sky Kitchen & View restaurant, serving authentic Lappish cuisine with a spectacular backdrop, has been voted one of the best restaurants in Finland.
For those with kids, Families Worldwide have a Northern Lights Adventure package in Finland’s Hossa National Park. This is a self-drive trip, which can be great for families who often need a bit of flexibility. Here, kids can learn to build an igloo with their parents., go ice fishing and learn survival skills for the extreme cold, as well as take part in classic winter activities like sledge rides with huskies and snowshoeing.
After a day exploring the icy landscapes, you’ll be able to relax in a Finnish sauna in your cosy log cabin, and look out for the aurora borealis.
Sweden
Ever returned from holiday only to find your travel pictures didn’t quite capture the experience in all its glory? Kirker are offering a Swedish Lapland trip including a Northern Lights photography masterclass to hone your night photography skills, and an excursion to hidden places in the wilderness guided by an experienced aurora borealis photographer.
On top of that, guests will stay at the famous Icehotel, with one night in the ‘cold room’ (around -5 degree C on bed made from ice) and two in ‘warm rooms’. A three-night trip costs from £1,689pp (roughly €1,955) (two sharing), including return flights, accommodation, transfers, and the photography excursion. Additional optional excursions include travelling by snowmobile, dog-sled, or on horseback.
For solo travellers, Flash Pack (who run group holidays for people for two age ranges: 30-49 and 45-59) run a four-day ‘total immersion’ into the Arctic way of life for their Winter Sweden trip. Explore high above the Arctic Circle in Kiruna, and discover the indigenous Sámi traditions, snowy forests and local life in a remote corner of the world. Activities include Northern Lights spotting (obviously), cross-country skiing and even meditating with huskies alongside a dog psychologist. The next trips leave on December 27 and December 30.
