Snowy Winter Fun For The Whole Family: Travel To These Destinations

by | Nov 28, 2023 | Destinations

Families looking for a winter adventure have a plethora of options to choose from. Snowy destinations offer a variety of activities that cater to all ages, making them the perfect spot for a family vacation. Whether it's skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, or simply building a snowman, there's something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the most popular winter activities for families is skiing. Ski resorts offer a range of slopes for all skill levels, as well as ski schools for beginners. Snowboarding is also a popular alternative to skiing, with many resorts offering lessons and equipment rental. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, snowshoeing is a great way to explore the winter wonderland. Many resorts offer guided tours and equipment rental for this activity.

Beyond the outdoor activities, snowy destinations also offer plenty of indoor fun. Cozy cabins or lodges provide the perfect setting for family bonding time, with board games, hot cocoa, and movie nights. And of course, no winter vacation is complete without a visit to the local hot springs or spa for some relaxation and rejuvenation. With so much to do, it's no wonder that families are flocking to snowy destinations for winter fun.

Why Choose Snowy Destinations for Family Travel

When it comes to family travel, choosing a snowy destination for winter fun can be a great option. Here are a few reasons why:

Unique Winter Activities

Snowy destinations offer a wide range of unique winter activities that are perfect for families. From skiing and snowboarding to snowshoeing and ice skating, there's something for everyone. Many resorts also offer activities like sledding, tubing, and even dog sledding, which can be a fun and exciting way to experience the winter landscape.

Bonding Over Shared Experiences

Traveling to a snowy destination can also be a great way for families to bond over shared experiences. Whether it's learning to ski together or building a snowman, these activities can create lasting memories and bring families closer together. Plus, many resorts offer family-friendly accommodations and activities, making it easy to spend quality time together.

Educational Opportunities

Finally, traveling to a snowy destination can also provide educational opportunities for children. They can learn about different types of snow and weather patterns, as well as the history and culture of the area they're visiting. Many resorts also offer educational programs and classes, such as snow science or avalanche safety, which can be a fun and informative way to learn about the winter environment.

Overall, choosing a snowy destination for family travel can be a great way to experience winter fun, bond with loved ones, and learn something new.

Top Snowy Destinations for Families

When it comes to winter fun, nothing beats a family trip to a snowy destination. Here are some of the top snowy destinations around the world that are perfect for families.

European Winter Wonderlands

Europe is home to some of the most beautiful winter wonderlands in the world. Here are some of the best destinations for families:

  • Zermatt, Switzerland: Located at the foot of the Matterhorn, Zermatt is a picturesque village that offers skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities for families. The village also has a variety of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants.
  • Rovaniemi, Finland: Known as the "Official Hometown of Santa Claus," Rovaniemi is a magical destination that offers a variety of winter activities for families, including reindeer sleigh rides, snowmobile safaris, and visits to Santa's Village.

North American Ski Resorts

North America is home to some of the best ski resorts in the world. Here are some of the top destinations for families:

  • Whistler Blackcomb, Canada: Whistler Blackcomb is the largest ski resort in North America and offers a variety of activities for families, including skiing, snowboarding, tubing, and ice skating. The resort also has a variety of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants.
  • Park City, Utah: Park City is a family-friendly ski resort that offers a variety of winter activities for families, including skiing, snowboarding, and snowshoeing. The resort also has a variety of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants.

Asian Snow Festivals

Asia is home to some of the most unique winter festivals in the world. Here are some of the top destinations for families:

  • Sapporo Snow Festival, Japan: The Sapporo Snow Festival is one of the largest winter festivals in Japan and features incredible snow sculptures, ice skating, and other winter activities for families. The festival also has a variety of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants.
  • Harbin Ice and Snow Festival, China: The Harbin Ice and Snow Festival is one of the largest winter festivals in China and features incredible ice sculptures, ice skating, and other winter activities for families. The festival also has a variety of family-friendly accommodations and restaurants.

Planning Your Family Trip

Travel Insurance

Before embarking on a family trip to snowy destinations, it is important to consider purchasing travel insurance. This will protect you and your family in case of unforeseen circumstances such as flight cancellations, lost luggage, or medical emergencies. It is recommended to shop around for insurance policies that provide coverage for winter sports activities, as well as any other activities you plan to do on your trip.

Packing Essentials

When packing for a family trip to snowy destinations, it is important to bring warm and waterproof clothing, including jackets, pants, gloves, hats, and boots. It is also recommended to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and lip balm to protect against the sun's harsh rays reflecting off the snow. Additionally, packing a small first aid kit with basic supplies such as bandages, pain relievers, and cold medicine can come in handy in case of illness or injury.

Accommodation Choices

Choosing the right accommodation for your family trip to snowy destinations is crucial for a comfortable and enjoyable experience. Consider booking a hotel or resort that offers amenities such as heated pools, hot tubs, and indoor activities to keep the family entertained during downtime. Alternatively, renting a cabin or chalet can provide a cozy and intimate atmosphere for the family to bond over board games or hot cocoa. It is important to research the location and accessibility of your accommodation to ensure it is close to the activities and attractions you plan to visit.

Staying Safe and Healthy

Winter Clothing Tips

When traveling to snowy destinations for winter fun, it is important to pack appropriate clothing to stay warm and dry. Layering is key to staying comfortable in cold weather. Start with a moisture-wicking base layer, add a warm middle layer, and finish with a waterproof outer layer. It's also important to wear insulated boots, gloves, and a hat to protect extremities from the cold.

Altitude Sickness Prevention

Some snowy destinations may have high altitudes which can cause altitude sickness. To prevent altitude sickness, it's important to stay hydrated, avoid alcohol and caffeine, and take time to acclimate to the altitude. Travelers can also talk to their doctor about medications that can help prevent altitude sickness.

Emergency Preparedness

When traveling to snowy destinations, it's important to be prepared for emergencies. Pack a first aid kit and know how to use it. It's also important to have a plan in case of a snowstorm or other emergency. Travelers should research the area they are visiting and know the emergency procedures. They should also have a way to communicate with others in case of an emergency.

Making the Most of Your Trip

Balancing Activities

When planning a family trip to a snowy destination, it is important to consider everyone's interests and abilities. It can be tempting to try to fit in as many activities as possible, but it's important to balance the schedule to avoid exhaustion and burnout. Make sure to plan downtime for relaxation and recovery.

Consider including a mix of indoor and outdoor activities to account for varying weather conditions. Skiing and snowboarding are popular options, but don't forget about other winter sports like ice skating, snowshoeing, and sledding. Non-sport activities like visiting local museums and cultural attractions can also be a great addition to the itinerary.

Creating Lasting Memories

Family trips are a wonderful opportunity to create lasting memories. Take advantage of the unique experiences that a snowy destination has to offer. Consider taking a family photo in front of a scenic winter landscape or building a snowman together. Don't forget to capture these moments with photos and videos to look back on and share with friends and family.

Another great way to create memories is to involve the whole family in planning and decision-making. Letting each family member choose an activity or restaurant can help everyone feel included and invested in the trip.

Respecting Local Cultures

When traveling to a new place, it's important to show respect for the local culture. This includes being mindful of local customs and traditions, as well as being considerate of the environment and local wildlife.

When participating in winter activities, make sure to follow all safety guidelines and respect the natural surroundings. Avoid disturbing wildlife and be mindful of any impact on the ecosystem.

By balancing activities, creating lasting memories, and respecting local cultures, families can make the most of their trip to a snowy destination.