September 2015

Hot climates have always been my first choice of holiday destination. The very thought of visiting a cold country would get my teeth chattering uncontrollably, which prompted an avalanche of strange looks.

Since joining the Activities Abroad team, I’ve found a good deal of snow-based fun to change my mind.

Here are five activities which I definitely want to try, all of which you can experience for yourselves on our family holidays to winter destinations!

Husky safari

While my list isn’t in any particular order, this has to be right at the top. Dogsledding has long been central to the culture of the Nordic countries, and it’s easy to see why: the energy of the pack driving you over sparkling white lands must be amazing (correction: ‘is amazing’, as resoundingly confirmed by the whole office!).

The Lake District is one of my absolute favourite places in the world (and not just because I’m a Cumbrian born and bred!).

With stunning lakes and mountains there is always something different to explore and it really is as picturesque as anywhere else I’ve travelled.

A walk around Derwentwater to take in the spectacular views of the fells and the lake is a must. Derwentwater is just a stone’s throw away from the town of Keswick, which has a wide selection of cafes and boutiques to enjoy; a visit to Luchinis ice cream parlour is certainly worthwhile I speak from Lakeland experience!!

There are many different activities to experience in the Lakes from kayaking to climbing but I’ve always found ghyll scrambling most enjoyable.