Thought spring and summer were the only times you could hit the trails? Think again! There’s no need for hikers to hibernate come winter. In fact, many of our destinations look even more beautiful at this time of year. So, lace up your boots, swap your slippers for snowshoes and get ready to beat the chills with some outdoor thrills.  

The Dolomites, Italy 

Fly into: Verona Airport or Venice Airport 

Beyond the well-known delights for skiers and boarders, the Dolomites deliver a plethora of picturesque paths that’ll wind you through alpine valleys. You can expect breathtaking views at every turn, so take the time to soak up the silence and reconnect with nature. Take on the Tre Cime di Lavaredo circuit or learn about the region’s WWI history on the Cinque Torri loop. And when you need to warm up, the cosy mountain huts (rifugi) are waiting with welcome arms and lots of heart-warming dishes.  

Zermatt, Switzerland 

Fly into: Geneva Airport 

With the mighty Matterhorn as your constant companion and timber chalets cloaked in white, Zermatt’s primed for crisp wanders. Walkways meander between peaceful forests and past frozen streams. Routes including the one from Rotenboden to Riffelberg offer unforgettable panoramas of the peaks.  There are a handful of lower elevation trails too, like the Gorner Gorge or Zermatt-Furi path. And don’t forget about the mountain restaurants for those post-plodding pit stops. Who’s for a piping-hot fondue? 

Innsbruck, Austria 

Fly into: Innsbruck Airport 

It’s easy to have a wunderbar winter in and around Innsbruck. This vibrant city gifts adventurers easy access to a variety of trails. Whether you’re strolling through quiet forests or hiking up sunlit ridges, there’s so much to see and do. One of the most spectacular routes is the Panoramaweg at Patscherkofel. How does spending the morning in the mountains and the afternoon in the city sound? The Zirbenweg trail is ideal for a half-day hike. Along the way you’ll discover traditional alpine huts, where you can warm up with Tyrolean dishes and a mug of mulled wine.  

Morzine, France 

Fly into: Geneva Airport  

While the ski slopes buzz with activity, Morzine’s surroundings invite you to slow down amid flake-dusted forests and open plateaus. Nestled in the heart of the Portes du Soleil region, there’s a network of tranquil tracks, suitable for all fitness levels. How about exploring gentle routes around Lac de Montriond or trekking up to Les Lindarets? This is France at its most fabulous. After you’ve clocked up the kilometres, treat yourself to a chocolat chaud or a gooey tartiflette. 

Chamonix, France 

Fly into: Geneva Airport 

Tucked beneath the towering Mont Blanc, Chamonix’s appeal extends far beyond just skiing and boarding. Start easy with the Petit Balcon Nord – a gentle, forested trail with views of the valley. If you want to up the wow factor, point your boots in the direction of the Aiguillette des Posettes. This longer hike, starting from Le Tour, is one for the bucket list. Look out for deer and rabbits darting through the trees. You could also hop on a horse-drawn sleigh ride or whizz around the outdoor ice-skating rink.