Travelling is delightful in every season, but certain places in the world hold a special charm, particularly in winter

Winter, one of my favourite seasons… The captivating white landscape, the comforting embrace of warm coffee cups serving as gloves, the cosy feeling of sipping tea from delicate glasses, the soft hues of pastel colours, and the snug warmth of thick sweaters… Traveling is delightful in every season, but there are certain places in the world that hold a special charm, particularly in winter. Some cities are blanketed in pristine white snow, creating a uniquely enchanting atmosphere. Explore the destinations where the world gets closest to the pure beauty of white!

1. BANFF NATIONAL PARK, CANADA

A Canadian natural marvel, Banff National Park, situated in the western province of Alberta, stands as one of the country’s most significant natural treasures, having held national park status since 1885. Indeed, Banff holds the distinction of being the oldest national park in Canada. Moraine Lake in Banff National Park, situated in the interior of Canada, occasionally experiences complete freezing due to the harsh winter conditions prevailing in the region. The area also serves as a natural habitat for a variety of creatures.

2. HALLSTATT, AUSTRIA

Hallstatt, resembling a picturesque postcard, boasts a majestic beauty despite its small size as a lakeside village. Hallstatt, with its breathtaking views across all four seasons, transforms into a completely different spectacle during winter. Hallstatt has earned the distinction of being voted one of the most beautiful villages in the world. Indeed, according to a National Geographic survey, Hallstatt ranks among the top five most photographed places in the world! Adding to its enchanting landscape, Hallstatt is also notable as the home of the world’s first salt mine. Hallstatt, the oldest village in Austria with around 1,000 residents, is a heritage that awaited discovery and has only garnered appreciation in recent years.

3. KARTALKAYA, TÜRKİYE

Bolu, renowned for its lush greenery, forests, natural wonders, lakes, mountains, and plateaus, holds a significant position in the country, particularly in winter tourism. Kartalkaya, the foremost winter tourism centre in our country, is situated 38 kilometres southeast of Bolu city centre. With its towering pine trees, alpine meadows, and rocky summit, this location provides a captivating panorama of the Köroğlu Mountains, along with the scenic Bolu Mountains. Icefest and Snowfest are annual events organized in January and February, adding to the winter charm of the region.

4. JIGOKUDANI MONKEY PARK, JAPAN

Jigokudani, translating to “Hell Valley,” derives its name from the steaming and boiling water emerging from small cracks in the frozen ground. It is encompassed by steep cliffs and cold forests. The park is a habitat for snow monkeys, which venture into the valley during winter and seek food in other areas during the warmer months. These snow monkeys, scientifically known as Macaca fuscata, descend steep cliffs to bask in the warm waters flowing through the forest, returning to the safety of the wooded area in the evening.

5. RICHMOND PARK, LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM

Richmond Park, adorned with vibrant flowers in spring, holds the distinction of being one of London’s eight Royal Parks and is the largest park in terms of area. The park, boasting a diverse array of wildlife, holds special significance due to its protected areas, providing a habitat for many species. Isabella Plantation woodland gardens, Pembroke Lodge tea rooms, King Henry’s Mound, and St. Paul’s Cathedral are not only notable for their unique characteristics, but Richmond Park is also home to numerous rare species, ranging from mushrooms to birds, insects to bats.