10 of the most charming winter getaways in Canada
Winter getaways in Canada are all about embracing the countless quaint towns and villages that turn into picture-perfect snow-covered wonderlands.
Here are a few of the best places in Canada that make for a charming winter getaway.
Montebello, Quebec
Though this municipality abutting the Ottawa River is small in size and population, it centres around a stunning feature: a rustic log cabin built to mimic those in the Swiss Alps.
The luxurious, world-renowned Fairmont le Chateau Montebello was founded in 1930 and hosts activities that allow visitors to take advantage of the beautiful setting while immersing themselves in the area's storied history.
Rossland, B.C.
Tucked away in the Monashee Mountains near in the West Kootenays, this quiet locale is known for its unique way of blending slow living with high adrenaline. Rossland has been called the mountain bike capital of Canada and is also known for its hiking, skiing and snowboarding.
Summer sports are adapted for winter here, with fat tires added onto bikes and snowshoes strapped onto boots for the ultimate outdoor experience year-round.
Martins Point, Nova Scotia
This dreamy rural community is located on a peninsula jutting out into the waters of Mahone Bay.
The beachfront views from this endearing little town, which boasts hundreds of years of history, are to die for and its isolated location make it one of the perfect places to get away from it all during the holiday season.
Almonte, Ontario
This scenic settlement near Ottawa is so adorable that it bills itself as "the friendly town." It features a historic mill and a number of picturesque waterfalls for visitors to explore.
The humble town makes for such a good holiday getaway that it has actually gotten decked out in festive decor and served as the set for a few of those lovably cheesy Hallmark Christmas movies.
Whistler, B.C.
This ski resort paradise has everything you could want in a winter trip destination: inspiring mountains and forests, epic snowsports, jaw-dropping high-altitude views that you can't get anywhere else and a delightful little village full of bars and restaurants.
Aurora Village, Northwest Territories
This spot off the Ingraham Trail near Yellowknife is the self-proclaimed "best place in the world" to see the Northern Lights, and it's not wrong: the region is within the Aurora Oval, meaning it's a prime location for witnessing the phenomenon in all its glory.
The area's notoriously clear skies, dry climate and abundance of guided tours make the once-in-lifetime experience even better.
Banff, Alberta
The view of Mount Rundle down Banff Avenue may be one of the most iconic and recognizable in Canada. The historic, photogenic mountain town, though it serves as a massive tourist attraction, has a distinctive laid-back sensibility that will make you want to quit your job in the city and stay for a while.
The scenic mountains and glacial lakes the area is known for, as well as its three massive ski resorts that stand within half an hour of each other — Sunshine Village, Mount Norquay and Lake Louise — are definitely draws in their own right.
St. Andrews by-the-Sea, New Brunswick
You can do everything from watch whales and explore historic buildings to relax at a spa and dine on the country's best lobster in this quaint town on the ocean.
Pointe-au-Pic, Quebec
This settlement along the St. Lawrence River is part of the Charlevoix region, which was one of the first spots American tourists flocked to in Canada. Its charms range from cliffs and mountains to casinos and bourgeois historic buildings.
Snowboard on Mont Grand-Fonds, go on a whale-watching cruise or kayak trip from Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park or spend a night overlooking the river in the lavish Fairmont le Manoir Richelie.
Peggy's Cove, Nova Scotia
This frequented hamlet near Halifax is home to one of the country's most well-known icons and busiest attractions, Peggy's Point Light House.
The welcoming fishing community's colourful wooden residences and rugged, rocky coast are evocative of the Anne of Green Gables from our collective Canadian upbringing, and perfectly encapsulate the beauty of Atlantic Canada, summer or winter.
Latest Videos
Join the conversation Load comments
