Beautiful Places to Travel for a Snowy Holiday

With the holiday season approaching, you might be itching for a winter getaway filled with snow and cheer. Lucky for you, we know of a few places that take your average winter retreat to the next level. Our picks for beautiful places to travel in the winter feature quaint, historic towns, exhilarating outdoor recreation, and charming boutique lodgings nearby. So, skip the warm weather trip to beautiful beaches this winter season, and instead, embrace the cold, crisp weather with some of the best winter vacations in America. Explore our top three picks for the most beautiful places to travel for a snowy holiday below.

Beautiful Places to Travel: Stowe, Vermont

There are many beautiful places to travel in the charming state of Vermont, but few towns can compare to the lovely town of Stowe. No matter the season, Stowe offers an abundance of outdoor recreation and a walkable downtown that keeps travelers coming back. However, winter brings out a whole new side of this town, which is nestled at the foot of Vermont’s highest peak.

Stowe typically averages around 314 inches of snow each year, making it a favorite destination for travelers seeking out world-class skiing. Previously ranked in Forbes‘ “Top 10 Best Ski Towns in America,” snow lovers can indulge in 116 trails, perfect for Alpine skiing and snowboarding, dogsledding, snowmobiling, and tubing. Not to mention, most visitors enjoy ice climbing cascading waterfalls frozen in time, or venturing to Smugglers’ Notch to explore hiking trails and granite boulders.

Moreover, Stowe’s quaint downtown becomes dusted with snow and beaming with holiday decorations come the winter months. Here, window shop at nearly fifty boutiques, galleries, specialty markets, and other small businesses. And while you do some holiday shopping, be sure to stop in at one of Stowe’s many local restaurants and coffee shops for a taste of fresh, locally-sourced dishes. In fact, Stowe was name by Fordor’s Travel as the “#1 Ski Town for Foodies in the United States.” Now, check out our favorite Stowe lodging below.

Stay at Outbound Stowe

If you’re ready to start planning your winter getaway to Stowe, Outbound Stowe is your go-to home away from home. This charming modern mountain escape is settled along the serene West Branch Little River, just miles away from the city center and Mt. Mansfield. So, you’re minutes from all the winter excitement.

However, there’s plenty to enjoy on-site this boutique hotel. Outbound Stowe features direct access to the Stowe Recreation Path, which is a 5.3-mile-long paved trail that meanders past meadows and thick foliage, offering incredible views of the snow-capped peaks of the Green Mountain range. Spend chilly evenings beside the communal fire pits, roasting s’mores and admiring the stars. Or, get cozy next to the lobby fireplace with a steaming cup of coffee or tea.

What’s more, the Eastside Bar + Bites restaurant on-site serves up craft cocktails, local brews, and warm plates that you’ll enjoy day after day. This restaurant offers indoor and firepit seating, as well as a laid-back lodge atmosphere, so you can experience Outbound Stowe your way. Check out dog-friendly accommodations below at one of the most beautiful places to travel.

Accommodations

• Classic Accessible Queen: features queen bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• Deluxe Accessible King: features king bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• Deluxe King: features king bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• Classic Two Queens: features two queen beds and full bath. Accommodates four.
• Classic Cozy Queen: features one queen bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• Classic King: features king bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• One-Bedroom Cabin Rental in VT: features king bed, queen sleeper sofa, full bath, kitchenette, and living area. Accommodates four.
• Deluxe Two Queens: features two queen beds and full bath. Accommodates four.
• Classic Twin Bunk w/ Sleeper Sofa: features one full bunk bed, queen sleeper sofa, and full bath. Accommodates four.
• Outbound King Loft Suite: features king bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• Outbound Two Kings Suite with Sleeper Sofa: features two king beds, queen sleeper sofa, full bath, and private deck. Accommodates six.
• Outbound King Suite with Sleeper Sofa: features king bed, queen sleeper sofa, and full bath. Accommodates four.
• Outbound King Suite: features a king bed and full bath. Accommodates two.
• Poolside Two Queens: features two queen beds and full bath. Accommodates four.
• Three-Bedroom Cottage: features a king bed, two twin beds, two twin bunks, two baths, full kitchen, fireplace, and patio. Accommodates eight.

Beautiful Places to Travel: Jackson Hole, Wyoming

Among beautiful places to travel in the winter, Jackson Hole, Wyoming, is certainly on the top of the list. Known as the gateway to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park and the home of Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, there’s so much to experience here. From top-rated skiing and snowboarding on steep slopes to admiring the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the national parks, your winter holiday is sure to be unforgettable.

The Teton mountains feature fantastic Nordic and backcountry skiing, snowshoeing, and fishing on the pristine beaches of glacial lakes, like Jackson Lake. The jagged peaks of the Teton mountain range and rock formations make for great rock climbing as well. But when you’re ready to warm up, head to the Astoria hot springs for a decadent dip in steaming waters, just another one of the natural wonders of the area.

Not to mention, Yellowstone is a winter wonderland of its own, with a wealth of all-level cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails. The winter time is also ideal for wolf-watching in the national park or checking out the Old Faithful Winter expedition. Moreover, Jackson’s Town Square boasts a Western charm and is home to delicious alpine cuisine and locally owned outfitters you won’t soon tire of.

Stay at The Virginian Lodge

Keep it Western (even in the winter) with The Virginian Lodge, a ski resort alternative. This retro-inspired mountainside retreat will become your welcome homebase while exploring Jackson Hole, one of the most beautiful places to travel. What’s more, the location puts you just ten minutes away from the Grand Teton and less than twenty away from Jackson Hole Mountain Resort. And with a winter ski shuttle on-site, you won’t have to worry about navigating the icy roads. What’s not to love?

During your stay, you’ll find a variety of amenities curated to heighten your experience at this mountainside getaway. Float the evening away in the heated all-seasons pool and hot tubs. Or, relax beside a courtyard fire pit, sheltered by your cozy pop-up igloo, and toast to another day well spent. There are multiple dining options on-site, as well. Head in to The Virginian Saloon for karaoke night, indulge in homestyle breakfast and lunch at The Virginian Restaurant, or dig into a giant burger from Billy’s Burgers. A drive-though liquor and convenience store is also on-site.

Check out pup-friendly accommodations below.

Accommodations

• The Virg King: features king bed, one bath, and gear rack. Accommodates two.
• The Virg Double Double: features two double beds, one bath, and gear rack. Accommodates four.
• The Virg King + Sofa Sleeper: features a king bed, sofa bed, and one bath. Accommodates four; not dog-friendly.
• The Virg Courtyard King: features a king bed and one bath. Accommodates two.
• Two-Bunk Adventure Camp: features two twin bunk beds, one bath, and can connect to a Virg King. Accommodates four.
• Four-Bunk Adventure Camp: features four twin bunk beds, two full bathrooms, living room, and gear rack. Accommodates eight.
• Outbound King Suite: features a king bed, sofa bed, one bath, kitchenette, and separate living area. Accommodates four.
• The Virg Junior Suite: features a king bed, sofa bed, and separate living area. Accommodates four.
• Celebration Suite: features private bedroom with king bed, living area with sofa bed, one bath, and kitchenette. Accommodates four.
• Outbound Two-Bedroom Suite: features two bedrooms with a king and queen bed, one bath, separate living area, and kitchenette. Accommodates four.
• The Virg Accessible Queen: features queen bed, one bath, and gear rack. Accommodates two.
• Outbound Accessible Suite: features queen bed, sofa bed, one bath, and separate living area. Accommodates four.

Beautiful Places to Travel: Catskill Mountains, NY

Visiting New York in the winter is certainly not for the weak. In fact, winter months offer highs in the forties, with lows in the teens. So, make sure to bring layers and layers so you can explore this winter paradise in comfort. Like the aforementioned beautiful places to travel, the Catskills are home to some of the best ski resorts in New York State. From ungroomed terrain parks and black diamond trails to easy runs down powdery snow banks, all skill levels can participate in the winter fun.

Most travelers journey up the East Coast to the Catskills for the spectacular skiing conditions. But outside of skiing, you’ll find many an opportunity for snow tubing, ice skating, snowmobiling, and more, all with sweeping views of the rolling mountainscape. Not to mention, there’s an abundance of fishing, whale watching, hiking, and rock climbing opportunities in the area.

Moreover, the Catskills include a great number of charming small towns with cobblestone streets and rich history that will accentuate your cold weather trip. From Windom to Woodstock, artisan crafts, live music events, and world-class restaurants grace the Catskills region, making it a truly dreamy holiday experience. Explore where to stay below.

Stay at Callicoon Hills

When browsing beautiful places to travel, a remarkable lodging make the trip that much sweeter. The lovely Callicoon Hills in Callicoon Center is the best place to settle down for a winter vacation among a snow-capped mountain range. Meander 23 acres of grounds in your downtime, or snuggle up by the bonfire pits for nightly s’mores. Warm up even more with a session in the oak barrel Scandinavian sauna on-site, or hit the yoga deck or indoor-outdoor gym, complete with expansive views of the rolling mountains on the horizon.

Moreover, this quaint boutique outdoor hotel offers a handful of tempting restaurants on-site. Kick off your morning with a freshly brewed espresso from Rise & Shine Coffee Shop, or stop by On the Fly for grab-and-go bites before a road trip. Finally, the Conover Club serves up mouthwatering comfort foods you won’t want to miss. Now, let’s dive in to accommodations below.

Accommodations

• Boarding House: made up of King (sleeps two), Queen (sleeps two), King Suite (sleeps two), Deck House Queen (sleeps two), and Deck House King (sleeps two).
• Pool House: features king (sleeps two), queen (sleeps two), and double full (sleeps four) bedrooms; dog-friendly and accessible.
• Ridge Rooms: made up of Hill House Queen (sleeps two), Tree House King (sleeps two), and Lake House (sleeps two).
• Creekside Cabin: features two king beds, one sofa bed, two baths, full kitchen, and living room. Accommodates six.
• A-Frame Cabins: features queen bed, sitting chair, portable heaters/fans, and access to private bathrooms in bathhouse. Accommodates two.

Explore More Beautiful Places to Travel with Nook Outdoors

Want to explore more beautiful places to travel? The adventure doesn’t end with winter! Nook Outdoors‘ portfolio of resorts was carefully curated with nature-lovers in mind. No matter the season, you’ll find a cozy lodging at some of the most spectacular outdoor destinations in the country. Summer vacationers may head to Hawaii for picturesque beaches, volcanic mountains, and marine life, while avid outdoorsman may book a cozy cabin rental in the North Carolina Smokies. However you vacation, do it with Nook! Browse all accommodations here.