Winter is the most magical season of the year — the glistening snow, a white quilt of snowflakes kissing the trees, snow capped mountains, hot cocoa, sitting snugly in front of a fireplace and the cold climate. We urge you to virtually experience your very own winter wonderland at these postcard-perfect luxurious hotels, scattered across the globe. When the world opens up again, who knows you might be on your way there.
Arctic Snow Hotel & Glass Igloos
Rovaniemi, Finland
Make like modern-day Eskimos in this frosty destination in the city of Rovaniemi, Finland, where white winters are guaranteed. Inside, temperatures are set to a chilly -3ºC to retain the original forms of decorative sculptures and furniture in the rooms. If that sends chills down your spine, their heated glass igloos will make a warmer option. When you lie down at night, starry skies – or if you’re lucky, the Northern Lights – become your roof. When the Northern Lights do illuminate the skies of Rovaniemi, you will be woken up by an optional aurora alarm, so you will not miss a thing.
Gstaad Palace, Switzerland
“Gstaad is the last paradise in a crazy world,” Julie Andrews once exclaimed. And towering over this paradise is the luxurious Gstaad Palace, which has long been a winter playground for glamorous jetsetters. One of the last family-operated hotels in Switzerland and managed by the third generation of the Scherz family, it has withstood a history of over a hundred years, offering old-world elegance to its well-to-do guests. If circumstances allow, opt for the suites, where you will have a magical view of the Swiss mountains from inside the rooms outfitted with alpine elegance.
Le Lodge Park
Megève, France
Tucked in the region of vinous valleys and mighty peaks of the Rhône-Alpes, Le Lodge Park blends into its arresting surroundings. For those seeking for a perfect winter wonderland, this is it. Nestle comfortably in the chairs facing the fireplace or on the heated terrace, looking back and reminiscing the highlights of the day. After a day of thrilling descent down the slopes, bask in Megève’s legendary après-ski atmosphere at the hotel’s bar, outfitted in the rustic, lodge look. Now ready for your evening, whether you are in a festive mood or simply want to relish in good times, head over to the Beef Lodge for the finest cuts of meat or a stylish truffle-themed evening meal at the Fermes de Marie for a gastronomic adventure to be remembered. After a long and fulfilling day, retire to the distinct and rustic rooms in Lodge Park, where the walls are dressed in authentic Scottish fittings and playful touches of exotic textures — leather headboard in hues of Bordeaux and gold, crisp-white bed linens with the warming touch of a woven fur throw, nestled just close enough to the room’s fireplace.
Hotel La Perla
Dolomites, Italy
Nestled in a quiet, cozy corner of Corvara village’s stunning landscape, is Hotel La Perla, a family-run property renowned worldwide for its distinctive approach to hospitality and to creating joyful and lasting guest relationships. Offering sheets of ice and alpine atmosphere, Hotel La Perla allures skiers and dreamers to bask in its very own winter wonderland. Here, bounteous and dreamy rooms exude style and sophistication with warmth, respect, and etiquette at the fore. Après-ski, indulge their one Michelin star gourmet restaurant where traditions and modernity are married, serving dishes prepared with quality ingredients and the emotions of chef Nicola Laera for an amazing culinary experience. Mahatma is the celebrated wine cellar here — a must-visit, along with the indoor pool and Spa where one can release the knots that bind the body with natural holistic treatments. Winter season here is naturally as magnificent as one can imagine – the climate, snow-capped mountains and sheets of snow.
Higashiyama Niseko Village — A Ritz Carlton Reserve
Higashiyama Niseko Village, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve set in Japan’s winter wonderland is a stunning ski-in/ski-out resort that interweaves great personalised service with the Japanese charm, culture and cuisine. Embodying the philosophy of discovering oneself through nature (Kachou Fuugetsu), one can discover the power of solitude while on a mountain trek or realise the healing elements of Japan’s hot springs. Rooms and Suites at Higashiyama Niseko Village are designed around the alpine and mountain experience, inviting the beauty of nature to flourish within. Floor-to-ceiling windows look out over mount Yotei or Niseko Annupuri, and the interior décor is a juxtaposition of classic and contemporary aesthetics that hint elegantly to the surroundings.
Opus VXI
Bergen, Norway
Once the stomping ground of Vikings, this is a land rumbling with legends and rich with culture. The postcard-worthy town of Bergen is home to a Small Luxury Hotels of the World recipient — Opus XVI. Named after the famed piano concerto, this hotel is immersed in Bergen’s rich musical heritage and is helmed by descendants of Norwegian composer Edvard Grieg. In a renowned, historic building that was originally built as a bank, Opus XVI offers 65 unique and luxurious rooms located in the very heart of Bergen and each designed with classic yet modern design and interiors. Choose for a view of Mount Fløyen or the quiet plaza of Vågsallmenningen.
