1. Snowy Scenes in Austria

Dramatic wintry landscapes are plentiful in Austria, from perfectly groomed slopes for skiers of all proficiencies to charming villages that seem to have fallen right out of a Christmas romcom. But Austrians themselves are also known for their zest for life: a desire to be immersed in the moment – fully present, alive and engaged in authentic experiences. Known in Austria as ‘Lebensgefühl’, if you fancy experiencing this joie de vivre for yourself, add an Austrian winter holiday to the top of your bucket list. Wondering where to start? We’ve rounded up 13 of Austria’s top-tier destinations to book this winter.

2. Staycation Ideas in Wales

For an adventure on home shores, Wales is our top pick every season. Whether you’re looking for a bookish break in Hay-on-Wye or to uncover the history of the UK’s third oldest football club, there’s plenty for the whole family to enjoy. We’ve highlighted our top five Welsh holiday ideas here. 

Plus, we’ve teamed up with Visit Wales to offer one lucky reader the chance to win a two-night stay in magical Portmeirion for two. Scroll to the end of this email for all the details.

3. Bucket List Trips

If you’re looking to tick a major destination off your bucket list this season, there’s no better place to turn than Scott Dunn, the award-winning luxury travel company which draws on a pool of travel specialists to handcraft bespoke, memorable journeys. Whether it’s trekking with gorillas, gathering the extended family in the Caribbean, embarking on an opulent rail journey in the Andes or something else entirely, the Scott Dunn team takes all the pressure off, allowing you to absorb the breathtaking sights our precious mother Earth has to offer. Click here to learn more and to start planning your trip of a lifetime.

4. Hygge in Cornwall

As overtourism continues to gnaw at some of the world’s most beautiful destinations, we’re more excited than ever to get exploring in the off-season. To get all the joy of hygge this winter, head to Koto at The Point in Cornwall, a small development of architect-designed cabins inspired by the Norwegian holiday cabin or hytte. You’re totally immersed in nature here – but also just a 15 minutes’ walk from Polzeath with added access to an 18-hole golf course, a swimming pool, padel courts, a gym and a restaurant. The best of both worlds.

Interested? Next month (19 Oct), Koto at The Point will host an open day, introducing potential eco-cabin owners to the visionary founders and architects behind the project, giving you the chance to explore what could be your future eco hytte. Sign up at kotoatthepoint.co.uk

Can’t wait? Click here for your chance to win a week-long stay in one of those cabins. Good luck!

5. Oslo Experience

Speaking of Norwegian holidays, while other Scandi cities get most of the attention, Oslo is our top pick for a city break this season. The Norwegian capital recently made it onto Intrepid Travel’s Not Hot List which highlights destinations that are well-equipped for tourists but haven’t yet attracted visitors in droves. It’s perfect for city and nature lovers alike, with hiking spots just a 30 minute metro ride from the city centre and wild swimming in the heart of the city. Likewise, culture vultures can enjoy a plethora of world-class museums new and old, while foodies can pillage a burgeoning scene. Olivia Emily hopped across the North Sea to see what it’s all about.

6. Desert Quests

When is the best time to visit the desert? And are we water-loving humans welcome here? andBeyond Sossusvlei Desert Lodge embraces the barren land – that yet teems with life in the cracks and crevices – offering guests the chance to immerse themselves in the unique beauty of Namibia with the lightest possible footprint. ‘A journey to this remote and strange landscape won’t only help support its continued conservation, but it might just change your perspective on everything,’ Rebecca Cox wrote for C&TH this time last year. Click here to read her full review.

7. Hideaway in an Italian Forest

Leaf peeping has never looked better than this. In the far north of Italy, 40 km from the Austrian border, find My Arbor, a treetop wonderland where total relaxation is the order of the day. Nestled among vast swathers of greenery, enjoy crisp sunny walks, outdoor lunches and cosseting afternoons in the spa. Ellie Smith visited last October to join the chic European guests hailing from Austria, Germany and Italy.

8. Irish Affair

Inspired by Dermot O’Leary’s travels around the emerald isle? (Catch up with all five episodes on ITVX if you missed them this week.) Ireland is brimming with adventures this season, from stargazing escapes in designated dark sky areas to a fairytale hotel in the heart of county Limerick. Need a place to start? Here are our favourite hotels scattered across the island.

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WIN A Two-Night Stay In Portmeirion, Wales

Did you know there’s a colourful, Mediterranean village hidden in the heart of North Wales? You have to see Portmeirion to believe it – and we’ve teamed up with Visit Wales to give one lucky reader the chance to stay in this idyllic coastal village for two nights, as well as dinner both nights and a delicious Welsh breakfast each morning. Click here to find out more and to enter. Good luck!