By Katrina Caruso
Sure, you could opt for a cruise or an all-inclusive resort, but why not check out one of our own country’s great winter destinations? Whether you’re yearning for the slopes and outdoor activities or looking for cultural or romantic experiences, these six getaway spots won’t disappoint.
Mont-Tremblant. Photo: Tourisme Québec/Pierre Lambert – Claude Parent.
Slopes and Sights
Whistler, BC
Whistler is known for skiing, but there’s more to it than that. This laid-back ski town offers plenty of outdoor activities—dogsledding, winter fishing, sleigh rides…. The resort offers beautiful accommodations and great restaurants, and being close to Vancouver, it’s easily accessible.
Mont-Tremblant, QC
Mont-Tremblant will make any skier or snowboarder happy, with almost 100 ski trails and a beautiful village boasting top restaurants, nightclubs, a microbrewery, and boutique shopping. Accommodations range from cozy villas to five-star hotels. If you’re looking to try your luck, you can also visit the casino.
Culture and Community
St. John’s, NL
St. John’s is the ideal getaway for people who love snow, with lots of winter activities and a beautiful coastline to explore. There’s skating at Bannerman Park, the province’s oldest park, and Pippy Park has trails where you can take in the scenery on skis or snowshoes. Get cozy East Coast-style at local eateries and bars with charming live music.
Whitehorse. Photo: Explore Yukon/S.Wackerhagen.
Whitehorse, YT
Yukon Territory’s capital city has a lot to offer, but the Northern Lights alone make the trip up north worthwhile. With a wide variety of outdoor activities, including dogsledding, snowmobiling, and ice fishing, you won’t have time to be bored. The city also hosts many cultural activities such as galleries, shopping, cafés, and more.
Winter Wonderland
Lake Louise, AB
Lake Louise is a perfect getaway if you like to be outdoors. After skating on the lake, you might decide to hike to Johnston Canyon to check out the frozen waterfalls. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, dogsledding, horseback riding, and ice-sculpture contests, and if it’s luxury you’re looking for, stay at the beautiful Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise, a 106-year-old icon that boasts stunning rooms and gorgeous views.
Quebec City, QC
Quebec City is one of the oldest cities in North America and arguably the most romantic—especially in the winter. Take a walk along the streets of Old Quebec: for the holidays, the city is beautifully decked out in lights and decorations. The famous annual Winter Carnival is one big party filled with winter activities. And when it’s time to warm up, there are all those museums and galleries to visit—and of course, the restaurants.
