Winter Escapes
Thinking of a get-away this Winter? Here are some of Conde Nest Traveler’s best 30 winter vacation destinations. Both warm and cold-weather vacation spots, these were some of my favorites.
Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming
The oldest of all U.S. national parks (established in 1872) is still one of the most spectacular places to visit in the entire country. Famous sites include the Old Faithful geyser and the Grand Prismatic Spring, but truly, every single acre of the park is worth seeing in person. Visit during the winter to avoid the crowds and see the landscapes fill with steam from the thermal features.
British Virgin Islands
Comprising more than 60 islands, the British Virgin Islands has no shortage of coastline to explore. Unlike some stuffier Caribbean destinations, the BVIs still have an unfussy charm about them, perfect for those looking for a luxe yet casual getaway. Once there, you’ll be able to indulge at one of the ultra-luxury resorts, many of which sit on their own private islands. Richard Branson’s Necker Island is arguably the most famous, freshly reconstructed with an emphasis on sustainability.
Anguilla
As flat as a pancake, this British Overseas Territory just north of St. Maarten has come to be known as the place to really get away from it all. Shoal Bay, the island’s most famous beach, offers soft sand, clear waters, non-touristy bars and restaurants, and private resorts (like the beautiful Altamer Resort, perfect for multiple families; or Zemi Beach House for the ultimate work-from-home hideaway) that help you get on island time without having to worry about crowds.
Greenland
Greenland is icy, mysterious, and one of the most naturally beautiful places on the planet. The world’s biggest non-continental island is so much more than glaciers (although the glaciers are spectacular)—think magnificent fjords, colorful villages, and fields of sheep.
St. Kitts & Nevis
This twin-island nation is bursting at the seams with charm. St. Kitts, the larger of the two, is best first explored on an open-air train along the south coast. Nevis is almost perfectly round with gentle slopes rising to the peak of its dormant volcano.
Stowe, Vermont
Revel in snow-filled, family fun at Spruce Peak at Stowe in Vermont. The $500-million-dollar ski and lifestyle community, anchored by Stowe Mountain Lodge, is a self-contained adventure destination, where snowboarding, ice climbing, cross-country skiing, and, of course, excellent skiing are on the agenda.