Yosemite National Park boats spectacular views throughout the year, but there’s never a more magical time to visit than in the winter. It’s huge granite cliffs and giant redwood trees are layered in bright white snow and there are plenty of activities to do during the day. Ski or board down Badger Pass or take a walk along some of the Valley Loop Trail. You won’t forget it in a hurry.

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The quaint town of Rila makes a great trip, but what you really go for in the winter are the Rila Mountains, the highest in Bulgaria and the Balkan Peninsula . The above photo is taken from Mt Musala, its highest peak, standing at just under 3,000m. The most visited part of the mountain is northwestern Rila, where you can marvel at the Seven Rila Lakes and the famous Rila monastery.

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Though snowfall is unpredictable in Scotland, the winter still makes for a beautiful trip. There are far less visitors than other times of the year, but do make sure you plan ahead to ensure everything you want to do is possible. If you’re after a winter walking holiday, this is the one for you. Just don’t forget to pack your camera to capture the amazing scenery.

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If you’re looking for a festive getaway, Prague is your place. While snowfall can be unpredictable, the Christmas spirit is unprecedented. Browsing the Christmas Marketsis a must, where you can pick up some traditional gifts and handicrafts from brightly decorated wooden huts, all with a cup of delicious hot mulled wine and a trdelník (warm sugar-coated pastry) in hand. We’re booking our flights now.

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If you want guaranteed snow, this is your place. The above picture is the Whistler resort town, just around 20 miles from Vancouver. The largest skiable area in North America, Whistler occupies 8,000 acres over two mountains. It’s so perfect for snow activities that it co-hosted the 2010 Winter Olympics. Well, if it’s good enough for them, it’s good enough for our Christmas break.

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Of course, this list wouldn’t be complete without a shout out to Lapland. Deep inside the Arctic Circle, Finland’s fairytale destination makes for a perfect family holiday or romantic winter getaway. Think cosy log cabins with roaring fires, miles of snow-quilted forests and reindeer aplenty. For the little ones, there’s Santa’s grotto, sleigh rides and husky sledge rides. And you’ll have enough snow to build a snowman army.

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When you think of Turkey, you immediately conjure up images of bright sunshine, blue waters and warm summer days. But don’t overlook the winter season. A historical region in central Anatolia, Cappadocia is a magical, mysterious place, but even more so when covered in a blanket of snow. With its honeycombed hills and unusual architecture, you could almost be on the moon.

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Slovenia is beautiful in winter. Skate on Lake Bled then take a walk up the hill to Bled Castle for fantastic views of the snowy scenery. There’s also plenty of opportunity for skiing, too.

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The Lofoten archipelago comes into its own in winter. With much fewer people around, it’s a great time of year to experience the fishing villages at their most authentic. There’s plenty going on, too. Take a wildlife and nature trip to experience spectacular landscape and birdlife and join in a Northern Lights hunt after the sun sets.

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Many people swear by visiting New York in winter. The snow is thick, the atmosphere electric and the Christmas lights are twinkling. There’s plenty going on, from festivals and events to markets and ice skating. Hop on a plane with your best friend, you’ll never forget it.

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The colossal peaks of the beautiful Alps are a classic winter holiday destination. Whether it’s the French Alps and the Jura Mountains or Germany’s Bavarian Alps, you won’t be disappointed. Ideal for those after an activity-packed getaway, the Alps are perfect for snow sports and for all ability levels.

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