Winter wonderlands
Stargaze from a converted snow groomer, listen to stories around a bonfire, or hike through Ibizan orange groves,
LONG winter months are sometimes difficult to endure, but the promise of short breaks can always relieve the pain. And if ski holidays or Christmas markets don’t appeal, there are still plenty of ways to plan short European stays.
1
A SUNNY SURPRISE Where: Ibiza
POPULAR summer season destinations in the Mediterranean are now opening their doors for winter, when mild temperatures increase the opportunities for hiking and active pursuits.
In Ibiza, thermometers hover around 15°C at this time of year, crowds have disappeared, and the island ticks along at a very different pace.
Set within 10 acres of orange groves on a former family finca, Atzaro Agroturismo showcases the quieter side of this Balearic party giant.
Launched for the cooler months, a new collection of cycling and walking packages encourage guests to explore the countryside.
■ A three-night nature walking package costs around £575 a head, plus tax), including B&B accommodation, use of spa facilities, yoga and wellness classes, plus three guided nature walks. Visit atzaro.com
2
POLAR STORYTELLING SESSIONS Where: Alta, Norway
TRADITIONALLY, Norwegians living above the Arctic Circle would while away long, dark winter evenings by sharing entertaining tales and roasting meats on barbecues.
Get a snapshot of the Lappish cabin lifestyle by joining a storytelling excursion from Alta. Travel to a remote location, far away from light pollution, and sit around a blazing fire listening to myths and local legends. With any luck, the aurora borealis may turn up, giving a magical twist to any narrative.
■ A three-night stay in a cabin with breakfast and a snowshoeing trip starts from £775 per person (based on two sharing). Flights extra. Visit magneticnorthtravel.com
3
DETOXING IN A BEER BATH Where: Istria, Croatia
ONLY a hop over the Adriatic sea, Croatia commands a similar culinary prowess to Italy, yet its food scene is still under-appreciated by outsiders. Istria’s olive oil has received worldwide acclaim and it’s the only place in the world where both top quality white and black truffle varieties can be found together.
A healthy craft beer scene is also emerging, and one brewery has even gone so far as to launch the country’s first beer spa. Located in Buje, the San Servolo Resort & Beer Spa invites guests to relax in a beer-filled tub while helping themselves to pints from nearby taps.
Stay overnight in smart accommodation and dine at the resort’s restaurant, where menu highlights include truffles and beef from the region’s long-horned Boskarin cattle – along with dishes marinated in beer.
■ Double rooms from £95 with breakfast. Visit sanservoloresort.com/beer-spa
4
CHUGGING ON A SNOW TRAIN Where: Finnish Lapland
YOU can hunt them by foot, car or cruise ship – but have you ever heard of searching for Northern Lights by train? Pulled along by a snowmobile, the Snow Train trundles through wilderness areas surrounding Apukka Resort in northern Finland, keeping guests cosy while they look out for magical lights. Stopping off at a traditional Finnish Kota for grilled sausages and hot drinks, the evening continues with a scientific explanation of the aurora. Spend the first night in an ice cabin, wrapped in thermal sleeping bags, and then switch to a stay in an Aurora Wagon, dropped off by a driver in a remote location.
■ A four-night trip with half-board accommodation (including one night in an Ice Cabin subject to availability and one night in an Aurora Wagon) costs from £1,311 each. Also includes flights from London, transfers, cold weather clothing and expert guides. Departures from January 2 to March 24, 2019. Visit theaurorazone.com or call 01670 785 012.
5
ROMANCE ON A MOUNTAIN SUMMIT Where: La Plagne, France
INTREPID guests at French alpine resort La Plagne can stay in a converted Snow Groomer, driven up to the 2,400 metre-high Arpette summit and parked for the night. The vehicle has been transformed into a luxury pad designed for two, with a queen-sized bed, spa bath, large TV, stereo, and coffee machine. Champagne and fresh macarons are also included – along with a complimentary ‘Lovebox’ featuring an erotic board game, feather and massage oil. Panoramic windows perfectly frame the night sky.
■ The one-night Over the Moon package costs about £280 for two people, and is available from early January 2019 until the end of April 2019.