4 magical destinations for a white Christmas

From the Alps to Santa’s European HQ, Brooke Montgomery discovers there are many amazing locations for a white Christmas miracle.

1. Val d’Isère, France

When the snow falls, this cosy village in the Tarentaise Valley transforms into a beautiful ski mecca. Ride on more than 300km of variable terrain and enjoy a myriad of activities such as paragliding, dog sled tours, toboggan rides and ice skating. Christmas in Val d’Isère officially begins at the start of December when the Christmas lights are switched on and the celebrations continue all month long, so grab a vin chaud (and hot choccie for the kids), snap a photo with Père Noël (as he’s known in these parts) and stroll among the wooden chalets, bathed with Savoyard festive cheer.

For more information, you can read our family-friendly guide to a France family holiday here.

2. Innsbruck, Austria 

Tirol’s capital of the Alps has so much to offer, especially come Christmas time. The city is a beacon of illuminated festive cheer, surrounded by the nine snow resorts of Olympia SkiWorld, including Nordkette, accessed directly from the city centre. As a two-time host of the Winter Olympics (three if you count the first-ever Youth Winter Olympics in 2012) snow sports are a major drawcard for the area. You and your family can also choose from a range of other winter pursuits. For the perfect way to bring the magic of Christmas to life, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage through the snow or visit one of the five famous Christmas markets where you’ll find delicate ornaments, handicrafts and tasty winter treats, all under the twinkling lights of a giant Christmas tree on Marktplatz.

For more information, you can read our family-friendly guide to an Austria family holiday here.

3. Lapland, Finland 

Set just outside Rovaniemi, Ounasvaara is the perfect ski resort for families seeking a white Christmas. With nine downhill slopes, cross-country tracks and a terrain park, it caters for every ability. For little ones just starting out, Rendi’s Snow World is the place to be. Skis, snowboards and sleds are all welcome with the magic carpet making it easy for little legs. No visit to Rovaniemi would be complete without a visit to Santa Claus Village, where you and your family will have the chance to meet the jolly man in red himself. 

For more information, you can read our family-friendly guide to a Finland family holiday here.

4. Bolzano, Italy

With a rich history, stunning mountain scenery plus an abundance of winter activities, Bolzano, on the border of Italy and Austria, is an amazing setting for a white winter getaway. Corno del Renon/Rittner Horn is one of the closest ski resorts to the city and is great for snow bunnies of every calibre. Skiers and snowboarders will delight at the gnarly slopes and cross-country trails and kids will love the snowshoe hikes. In a Yuletide experience like no other, the town square transforms into the largest Christmas market in Italy. Sweet treats, gifts and crafts galore… your family will have a magical time wandering under the twinkling city lights.

For more information, you can read our family-friendly guide to an Italy family holiday here.