Amanda PhillipsUs Brits sure do moan about the winter, and many of us rush to book ourselves a December break in the sun. While a week in the Canaries may feel like the automatic answer to get away from the cold, some northern destinations offer an exciting winter alternative.
Canada is a country that never hibernates, and the scenes on the Canadian winter streets are Christmas card perfect. Instead of jetting-off south for the sun, consider staying in the north and heading west to Canada. Where else could you find professional pond hockey, polar bears and ice wine?
-
Skating on frozen ponds
When the atmosphere gets so cold that water freezes over, Canadians grab their ice skates. Some of the most well-known lakes and canals become outdoor ice-rinks. Stop by The Rideau Canal in Ottawa for a skate and experience the National Pond Hockey Championships in Huntsville, Ontario.
-
The chance to see a polar bear
Churchill in Manitoba is the polar bear capital of the world and during the winter they wander further into Canada. But, erm, stay back if you do see one.
-
Visit the winter festivals
Whichever part of Canada you visit you won’t be far from one of the country’s famed winter festivals. Ice sculptures, ice hockey and snow volleyball are just some of the activities you’ll witness at a winter festival. In Ontario visit the Winter Festival of Lights, in British Columbia the Rossland Winter Carnival, and in Alberta the Ice on Whyte Festival.
-
Spend the new year at Niagara Falls
Every January 31st, Canadians are out on the street bringing in the new year with style. Each city has its own New Year’s Eve celebration. For something special head to Ontario and see in the New Year watching fireworks at the Niagara Falls.
-
Party to techno in the snow
If there’s anything that proves Canadians don’t shy away from snow, it’s that they party in it. IglooFest is a month-long club night in January held in Montreal and attracts internationally respected techno DJs – and, yes, it’s held outside.
-
Pretend you’re in the Winter Olympics
Canada is home to some of the best ski-slopes in the world. While Canada has ski resorts all over the country, some of the best are in Banff and Jasper. There’s also Whistler – the co-host of the 2010 Winter Olympics.
-
The whole country is a magical winter wonderland
The Canadian Rockies, the Niagra Falls, and the long winding roads turn into something beautiful that even a beautiful summer’s day in Canada can’t compete with. It’s time to put a winter trip to Canada on your bucket list!