Archives November 2024

Winter is a harsh but magical time to visit Montana. A winter hush descends upon a landscape so cold that even sound itself seems frozen. But for well-equipped adventurers with a certain level of outdoor experience, there are some incredible ways to enjoy Montana’s stunningly beautiful mountain terrain in winter.

Of course, there are great things to do in Montana year-round, but winter has a special allure for fans of the white stuff. Whitefish and the surrounding Flathead Valley are unbeatable locations for pretty much every kind of winter sport, as is the Gallatin Valley between Big Sky and West Yellowstone.

For pristine backcountry skiing and snowmobiling, plus access to Yellowstone National Park, remote Cooke City is a great in-the-know destination. Here are the best things to do in Montana in winter.

1. Snowshoe, ski and spot wolves in Yellowstone National Park

For many people, winter is the very best season to visit Yellowstone National Park. There are almost no crowds, the geysers are at their steamiest, and the frozen landscapes are simply stunning. It’s also a great time to meet the wildlife.

There are two essential parts of Yellowstone National Park to visit in winter. From West Yellowstone, snow-coach tours shuttle to Old Faithful, from where you can explore the park’s geyser basins on skis or in snowshoes, before retreating for a hot chocolate and cozy overnight stop at the Old Faithful Snow Lodge.

Further north, the road linking Cooke City to the park entrance at Gardiner remains open to cars during winter. This opens up a host of snowshoe and cross-country skiing trailheads around the Mammoth region, some of which are served by snow-coach drops.

Planning Tip: Wildlife spotting in Yellowstone in winter is legendary – it’s considerably easier to spot animals against a plain white background. For an unforgettable opportunity to lock eyes with a Yellowstone wolf, sign up for a wildlife-spotting trip with a local company such as Yellowstone Wolf Tracker.

2. Snowmobile the Caribou-Targhee or Flathead National Forests

While there’s an environmental impact to exploring by snowmobile (some locals despair at the noise and fumes created by snowmobiles in Yellowstone National Park), if you are a confident rider, there’s no more exciting way to traverse Montana’s epic landscapes.

Cooke City is one of the most remote towns in Montana – with only one access road in winter, passing through Yellowstone National Park – but once you get here, the snowmobiling is incredible. Rentals and guides are available in town, and groomed Forest Service tracks climb to passes that offer astonishing views of the powder-filled Beartooth Mountains.

As the gateway for winter trips into Yellowstone, West Yellowstone is also well-suited for snowmobilers, with hundreds of miles of spectacular trails in the nearby Caribou-Targhee National Forest.

Other must-ride locations include the 250 miles of trails at Lolo Pass in the Bitterroot Mountains southwest of Missoula, or the Flathead National Forest near Glacier National Park, where you can rent snowmobiles or join a tour with Swan Mountain Snowmobiling.

Planning Tip: The minimum age for snowmobile rentals is usually 25, and hire companies require a valid driver’s license. If you’re new to the sport, consider taking an online course with an operator such as Snowmobile-Ed.

3. Watch the curious sport of skijoring

Combine Montana’s cowboy heritage with its Norwegian immigrant history, and you get the sport of skijoring, where skiers are towed by horses, navigating a series of jumps and through slaloms at speeds of up to 40mph. It’s the kind of sport that feels like it was invented during a night of heavy drinking – expect high adrenaline and some slightly silly fun.

For spectators, the best action can be found at Whitefish’s World Skijoring Invitational in January or at West Yellowstone’s National Championship in February. Alternatively, try Big Sky’s Best of the West competition in the same month or the skijoring finals held during Red Lodge’s Winter Fest in early March.

4. Ski virgin slopes from a backcountry yurt or hut

Montana has some mind-blowing backcountry skiing, but it’s the kind of terrain best reserved for experienced skiers, and access doesn’t come cheap. That said, you won’t forget skiing powder-filled slopes all day, then retreating to a private wilderness yurt or cabin miles from civilization.

Several companies offer backcountry ski packages that include accommodation and guides. You can base yourself in cozy yurts with Yurtski in the Swan Mountains, with Bell Lake Yurt in the Bitterroot Mountains or with Beartooth Powder Guides in Cooke City. All offer avalanche and backcountry skiing courses, which are a wise investment if you’re new to off-the-beaten-track skiing.

Hellroaring Powder Guides runs both unguided and guided backcountry skiing trips from their hut in the Centennial Mountains, 25 miles from West Yellowstone. Great Northern Powder Guides in the Whitefish region offers the only Cat skiing in the state, using their private cabin as a base for incredible, pristine descents.

Planning Tip: The cheapest way to sample some gentle cross-country backcountry skiing is to hire a Forest Service Cabin. For as little as $50, you can get a basic cabin for the night, though you’ll need to chop wood for heating and cooking and pack in all your food.

5. Learn how to mush on a dog sled trip

It’s hard to think of a more romantic way to traverse Montana’s snow-draped winter forests and valleys than in a dog-pulled sled. Apart from the thrill of the scenery and learning the basics of how to mush, getting to interact with these energetic sleigh dogs is a highlight in itself.

Several outfitters offer hands-on dog sledding trips. In western Montana, try Base Camp Bigfork in the Flathead Valley, Winter Woods Dog Sled Tours outside Whitefish or nearby Dog Sled Adventures. Closer to Bozeman, check out Yellowstone Dog Sled Adventures in the southern Gallatin Valley or Spirit of the North Dog Sled Adventures in Big Sky.

6. Try out fat biking on the Whitefish Trail

A fat bike is essentially a mountain bike equipped with chunky double-width tires for riding on packed snow, and it’s a great way to explore the Montana countryside in winter. This increasingly popular sport extends the biking season, opens up whole swatches of winter terrain to non-skiers, and allows you to push your riding to new limits. Don’t worry too much about wiping out – the snow will cushion your fall!

The 22-mile Whitefish Trail is one of the best routes for snow biking in the state. The trailside Whitefish Bike Retreat, 9 miles west of Whitefish, offers fat bike rentals and access to groomed trails and their cozy accommodations, plus lots of trail advice and occasional three-day fat biking clinics.

Planning Tip: When you first start fat biking, pick a bike with flat platform pedals – you’ll have slips and dismounts, and it’s easier to get back on the bike if you don’t have to worry about toe clips or cleats.

7. Go Nordic skiing in Glacier National Park

Montana has an almost unlimited choice of Nordic skiing trails if you don’t require downhill thrills. West Yellowstone, Bozeman, Big Sky, Missoula, Red Lodge and Great Falls all offer Nordic ski centers with plenty of groomed trails. In Whitefish, try the Glacier Nordic Center or Big Mountain Nordic Trails, the latter best suited to more experienced skiers.

For something special, visit Glacier National Park in winter. Most park roads and accommodations close for the cold season, but you can ski or snowshoe from Lake McDonald Lodge near Apgar on the western side of the park, or along the Going-to-the-Sun Road from St Mary on the eastern side. Remote wilderness trails lead into the park from Polebridge ranger station and Marias Pass.

Planning Tip: Explore the frozen wonderland of Glacier National Park like a pioneer on a snowshoe tour arranged through the park’s ranger-led program or with the Glacier Institute.

8. Go ice fishing in Eastern Montana

The bravest fly fishers don waders to enter Montana’s chilly waters year-round, but there is a warmer alternative. By late December or early January (depending on when temperatures drop), large bodies of water across the state freeze over, and ice fishers set up camp and fish for lake trout, pike, walleye and more. Head to Eastern Montana for the best opportunities – popular spots include Nelson Reservoir, Fort Peck Lake, Tongue River Reservoir and Deadmans Basin. 

9. Relax at one (or many) of Montana’s hot springs

If you’re looking for pure relaxation, Montana’s hot springs provide a nice change of pace (and temperatures) in winter. In fact, there’s a route lined with hot springs spanning the state called Glaciers to Geysers, and many hot spring resorts are conveniently located near snowmobile trails and cross-country skiing trails.

It’s a luxurious experience that doesn’t always have a luxurious price tag. Recommended springs include Sleeping Buffalo Hot Springs in Missouri River Country; Chico Hot Springs, about 30 miles from Yellowstone National Park; Spa Hot Springs Motel in Central Montana; Norris Hot Springs in Southwest Montana (check out their live music calendar beforehand); and Quinn’s Hot Springs in Paradise, Montana.

Planning tip: Time your soak for after sunset for some fabulous stargazing – the lack of light pollution here is amazing.

Portugal is one of the most family-friendly countries in Europe. Children are an integral part of daily life, and they’re happily welcomed anywhere, from museums and restaurants to town squares and theaters. Cities are rife with parks and playgrounds, while the rest of the country is a perfectly preserved natural paradise.

With 300 days of sunshine a year and the mildest weather on the old continent, Portugal is the ideal destination for family adventure. The only part you’ll struggle with is deciding where to go! Read on to find out more about the best destinations to travel to in Portugal with your kids.

Where in Portugal is best for families and children?

Families hold an important place in Portuguese society, so they’re well-treated across the country. Parents who are pregnant or have small children in tow are given priority in supermarket lines and on public transportation, and you’ll never get side glances for breastfeeding in public. Plus, Portuguese cities are generally pretty safe; Even in Lisbon, tweens and teens ride public transport alone.

Perhaps the only drawback for parents are the sidewalks, which thanks to steep hills, bumps and their narrow size, are very far from being stroller- or toddler-friendly. However, all is redeemed by a family-centric local culture which welcomes you to bring your kids – be they babies, tots or teens – literally anywhere.

Some entirely reasonable Portuguese excursions with kids include surf lessons or a coastal hike along the Costa Vicentina; a road trip along the coast; or a river cruise, vineyard tour and a horseback ride with your children by your side. While the options are endless, here are a few of the coolest experiences for families in Portugal.

Brave walking the Arouca 516 suspension bridge

Best for kids, tweens and teens

Just outside of Porto in the Arouca Unesco Global Geopark hangs the world’s longest pedestrian suspension bridge, a 516 meter-long (1693ft) bridge situated 175m (574ft) over the Paiva River.

Challenge your kids to see if they’re brave enough to cross (or if you are!), but don’t fret – even if someone is afraid of heights, the park is still worth the trip. Below the bridge, find the Passadiços de Paiva, an 8 kilometer-long  (5.5mi) route of wooden walkways that follows the Paiva River, offering a scenic hike – albeit with a lot of stairs – that’s safe and fun for children with energy to burn. 

Drive south along Portugal’s coast 

Best for all ages

Renting a caravan or RV to road-trip Portugal with your family is one of the best ways to explore this beautiful land. The country is small, the roads are uncrowded, the scenery is breathtaking and it’s relatively safe. If you’ve got little ones, the convenience of on-hand snacking and napping is unbeatable; while older kids will love the adventure and instant access to nature.

Wild camping is no longer permitted in Portugal, but there is a huge network of budget-friendly campsites that offer all the basic infrastructure you could need – many even have playgrounds and cafes onsite. Prices and amenities vary: Peniche’s municipal campground, for example, has standard amenities, a perfect location and a shockingly low rate, while Salema Eco-Camp in the Algarve, which boasts a huge pirate-ship playground, multiple restaurants and live music nights, is worth the higher nightly rate.

Travel to the end of the world at Sagres & the Costa Vicentina

Best for kids, tweens and teens

Once upon a time, the southwest corner of Portugal was considered the end of the continent, and thus of the civilized world. These days, while it’s still pretty far out there, it’s an absolutely amazing spot for active and outdoorsy families to spend their holidays.

In Sagres, you’ll find Martinhal Resorts, one of the most family-friendly hotels in the country. Start your day with a surf lesson at the Algarve Surf School, then head back to town for an exceptional pizza at Arte Bianca, followed by ice cream at Alice Gelateria. After an afternoon relaxing, check out some live music in the evening at the Laundry Lounge or Three Little Birds, before an early bedtime so you can do it all over again.

Spend an art-filled afternoon at the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum

Best for babies, tots, tweens and teens

The Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is one of the world’s most important private art collections with works from Ancient Egypt to the early 20th century. Beyond its artistic importance, the Gulbenkian is a truly perfect place to spend an afternoon with the kids. This art-filled oasis in the middle of Lisbon has beautiful, rolling gardens where kids play while adults lounge in the sun, surrounded by koi ponds and some surprisingly friendly ducks. The onsite cafe serves simple, tasty food that’s easy for picky eaters and for your wallet, too. It’s a wonderful stop for cultural-minded parents of small children or families with artsy tweens and teens.

Let your worries float away at Tavira and the East Algarve

Best for babies and tots

The East Algarve is known for its quiet, warm beaches with nearly no waves and exceptionally fresh and inexpensive seafood. Stay in Tavira for more action, or Cacela Velha to escape the crowds, then hop on a little boat to cross the lagoon where endless white sand beaches await – just dont forget a beach umbrella and plenty of water and snacks.

When you’ve had enough sun, take a day trip to the nearby Rio Formosa Wetlands Natural Park for some bird and wildlife watching. Simply hop on one of the small ferries that run between the islands (Ilha do Farol is a favorite). For a few euros, kids can enjoy the boat ride and the view, and you can pop off at any of the islands for some beach time, snacks or an ice cream.

More great experiences for kids and families in Portugal

Hike among the stars

For mountain hiking, crystal-clear lakes, traditional cuisine and wintertime skiing head to Parque Natural da Serra da Estrela.

Peek into the past

Find Roman Ruins, cool city vibes and a gateway to the Alentejo countryside in Évora.

Go spelunking

Explore subterranean caverns with the family at Grutas de Mira de Aire.

Planning tips for family travel in Portugal

Public transport versus driving

In the cities, public transport is both easy and inexpensive, and there are plenty of rideshare and taxi drivers to make up for any shortcomings. Outside of the cities, however, you’ll want a car to visit the best national parks and most breathtaking beaches; Driving in this tiny, safe country is nearly stress-free.

Pack plenty of layers

Portugal is a cold country with warm sunshine: days are hot, while nights and mornings can be quite chilly. To keep your little ones comfortable, pack easy layers that kids can peel off as the day warms up or throw on as the sun starts to set. Consider an extra-large day bag to carry it all.

There’s nothing quite like bathing in the blissfully warm, mineral-rich waters of an onsen on a trip to Japan. For generations, both locals and visitors have flocked to these ancient hot springs to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.

And one place in particular stands out for experiencing Japan’s most famous contribution to holistic healing. Wakayama Prefecture, to the south of Osaka, is a nature lover’s dream. With its unspoiled natural scenery, it’s the perfect place to try out one of the country’s best-loved pastimes.

Here’s how to get the best from the onsen experience in Wakayama Prefecture.

Understanding the magic of onsens

Thanks to high levels of volcanic activity in Japan, the country has natural hot springs in their thousands, scattered in diverse locations all over the country. Throughout the ages, people have been lured to onsen towns by the health benefits of bathing in the warm, soothing waters, which are infused with natural minerals. 

Onsens come in several varieties, from simple natural pools (be careful of the temperatures at these locations as the waters can be scalding hot) to stylish indoor bathhouses at hotels, health spas, and traditional Japanese ryokan inns. Outdoor rotenburo baths offer an invigoratingly authentic experience, often with the bonus of beautiful views.

In Japan, hot springs are celebrated for their healing properties, as well as acting as an important setting for social interaction. Visiting an onsen is a delightful way to immerse yourself in Japanese culture, though be aware that most onsens require bathers to be naked, so you’ll need to leave your inhibitions at the door.

Why are there so many onsens in Wakayama?

Thanks to the sheer range of bathing options and the many locations where naturally hot mineral waters bubble to the surface, Wakayama has earned a reputation as one of the best onsen destinations in Japan. Hot spring bathing has a long history here – the historic Yunomine Onsen was founded nearly 1800 years ago, earning it a spot on the UNESCO World Heritage List.

With an abundance of hot spring retreats and spa resorts, this is the place to sample experiences such as a two-person bath on an island and a gigantic river bath that can accommodate up to 1000 bathers. Travelers can even soak their feet in a volcanically warmed foot bath while they dine!

Wakayama’s best onsens

Historic springs lie dotted around the countryside in Wakayama. Wakayama
Prefecture has a dedicated website with a handy guide to onsen spots around the area.

Shirahama: As well as having incredible beaches, the coastal town of Shirahama boasts some of Japan’s oldest and best-known onsens, including the open-air Shirasuna Onsen, located on the boardwalk in the middle of the town, and Sakino-yu, an onsen on a rocky outcrop with ocean views, approximately 1km south of the main beach.

To mix relaxation with regional dining, Ashiyu Alley in Shirahama’s trendy Ginza Alley dining district has thermal foot baths, allowing customers to soak their tootsies as they tuck into delicious local offerings. See the city website for more information on Shirahama’s onsens.

Kawa-Yu: For a natural experience, head to Kawa-yu in the center of Wakayama,
where visitors can dig their own bathing pool in the stony beach on
the banks of the Oto River then take a dip in the massive Sennin-buro
River Bath, a pebble-edged pool with room for 1000 bathers.

Katsuura: Nearby on the coast, the small seaside village of Katsuura is known for rotenburo that look out onto blue coves and islands. Most are associated with small hotels and ryokan inns, and the best sit right on the waterfront.

Yunomine Onsen: According to local legend, the UNESCO-listed onsen at Yunomine was created by Yakushi Nyorai, the Buddha of Healing, and it once cured a famous samurai. While we can’t verify that’s 100% accurate, it’s certainly true that the onsen has rejuvenating qualities for the mind and body.

Located in the middle of the Yunomine hot springs, the Tsubo-yu onsen is set inside a small wooden shack built on an island in the river. It can be used privately (holding up to two people) for 30 minutes at a time on a first-come-first-served basis, and the admission fee also covers entry to the Yunomine Public Bathhouse, which you can visit afterward. Check out the natural hot well where visitors boil eggs and other snacks.

More onsens: Other highlights in the Wakayama region include Ryūjin Onsen, a historic hot spring village on the upper reaches of the Hidaka River in the mountainous heart of the Kii Peninsula, and Watarase, an expansive complex in a forested valley that has rich sodium-chloride pools of varying temperatures.

Tips on onsen etiquette for the uninitiated

Bathing in an onsen is a truly unforgettable experience, and while there are a few rules of etiquette to remember, this shouldn’t be a deterrent. As with any new travel experience, it’s worth taking some time to research local customs and traditions, so you’ll feel more at ease and have a more relaxing and enjoyable time.

The first thing to note is the requirement for nudity. This is the norm in Japan, even in mixed onsens, though many bathhouses have separate pools for men and women, or different times allocated for each. Make sure you take a shower before entering an onsen; there are dedicated washing facilities and you’ll see patrons sitting on a stool and showering with soap and water using a wooden bucket.

Small hand towels are provided, and these can be used for modesty before getting in the water, but should not be used in the pool; some people place them on their heads while they bathe. Full-sized towels are left in the changing rooms. Long hair should be tied up to keep it out of the water, and eating and drinking in the water is considered impolite. Drink plenty of water before and after bathing, as the hot temperatures can cause light-headedness.

It also pays to be aware of Japan’s complex relationship with tattoos. Despite a long history of ritual body art, tattooing became associated with criminality during the Edo period, when it was used as a punishment. Even today, tattoos are perceived as being associated with crime, and many onsens do not permit entry to people with visible tattoos. 

However, some places are tattoo-friendly and advertise themselves as such. To avoid disappointment, contact onsens ahead to ask about their tattoo policy. If you have a small tattoo, convenience stores such as Don Quijote sell “tattoo seals” – skin-colored plasters that can cover up smaller pieces of body art.

Once you’ve mastered onsen etiquette, there’s nothing left to do but relax and enjoy the therapeutic hot waters!

How to get to Wakayama

Wakayama is served by regular trains – both rapid and local – from Osaka, so it’s easy to reach the region’s onsens after exploring Japan’s third-biggest city. Train passes such as the Ise-Kumano-Wakayama Area Tourist Pass
offer significant discounts for international visitors, covering unlimited travel on the region’s trains and some bus services. Look out for periodic special
offers offered by Japan Railway and
Nankai Electric Railway.

Once you arrive in Wakayama City, buses run from Wakayama Station to other areas across the prefecture. Visitors can also take advantage of the Koyasan & Kumano Access Bus; passes offer unlimited rides between the Kōya-san area and Kumano region heritage sites such as Tsubo-yu and Kawayu.

Produced by Lonely Planet for Visit Wakayama. All editorial views are those of Lonely Planet alone and reflect our policy of editorial independence and impartiality.

Planning a tropical winter holiday? Read on as two writers make the case for their preferred southern Indian state.

As you head toward India’s southern tip, temperatures rise, beaches unfold, food gets ever spicier – and a decision about just where you should settle in and slow down beckons.

You could do worse than an extended spell in two of southern India’s most beguiling states, Goa and Kerala. But what if you had to pick one over the other? Since we couldn’t possibly decide, we asked two writers to make the case for their preferred destination. A subcontinental winter getaway awaits.

Go to Goa

A proud Goenkar (Goan) who has spent most of her life in the state, Joanna Lobo is on a mission to spread the good word about her home, and showcase its beauty beyond the Instagram Reels and stereotypes.

The year was 2020. Indians, besieged by the rampaging coronavirus and stuck at home, sought an escape – a better life – in a place that was beautiful, quiet, affordable and convenient. Where did they choose to go? Goa, of course. Welcome to India’s favorite post-pandemic destination.

People go to Kerala on vacation. They come to Goa to find a home.

This tiny state is a one-stop destination with everything to offer – which made it a popular spot for visitors well before the pandemic. Couples would flock here for honeymoons; families for quality time; youngsters for a quick holiday away from the prying eyes of adults; unmarried folk for bachelor and bachelorette parties. All over India, “Goa chalte hain” (“Let’s go to Goa”) is a commonly repeated phrase for anyone planning a getaway.

Good things always come in small packages. So despite being a fraction of the size of Kerala, Goa offers so much more. It is a place that embraces tradition and yet keeps space for modernity. The colonial presence of the Portuguese, for 451 years, has given it a distinctly European feel in terms of food, architecture, clothing and music.

Goa’s highlight reel is so long, it could be a movie. (Consider this the trailer.) There’s history, architecture and maybe even a miracle to be found at the heritage site of Basilica of Bom Jesus in Old Goa, which hosts the remains of St Francis Xavier.

Goa’s temples are architecturally stunning, as are its forts, including Fort Aguada. At Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary and Dr Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary, you’ll get a glimpse of the state’s rich tropical biodiversity. The museums are fun, too, including the boat-shaped Houses of Goa. Gasp in awe at the milky-white Dudhsagar Falls, the second-highest in India. And spend time at the miles of internationally famous beaches, which offer soft sands, clean waters and waves gentle enough for beginner surfers.

North Goa has flea markets, party spots and casinos. South Goa is more traditional, with quieter beaches and largely untouched forest cover.

Goa’s cuisine makes the state a true powerhouse. The flavors here stand apart from other Indian food: Goa took the best of what the Portuguese had to offer, and made it its own. The curries are complex and flavorful, bread is a serious business, and desserts are rich but not overly sweet. Fish-curry-rice is the staple meal, best eaten at small thali joints.

In recent years, the food scene has boomed, complemented by an exciting cocktail culture. While Keralites grow cashews just for the nuts, Goans distill cashew juice into artisanal spirits like feni and urrak.

Goa’s highlights inspire all manner of content creators. Why else would influencers flock here to make #OffbeatGoa content? You can write stories (or film Reels) on Goa’s pilots (motorcycle taxis). Or the translucent oyster-shell windows in old homes. Or festivals where people get buried underground. Or the village that gets swamped underwater each year and resurfaces during summer.

The Danish have hygge, but Goa has susegaad. It is a state of quiet and contentment that’s only found in Goa.

Honestly, why bother with any other place?

Keep to Kerala

Luke Waterson spent a month traveling through the state of Kerala, sampling its serenity from Ayurveda retreats on the coast to tea-tasting on Munnar’s hilly plantations.

The backstory to this bedrock of backwater boating adventures, axis of Ayurvedic healing and titan of the South Indian tea-growing scene is an enthralling one. For compared to Goa’s fetching but somehow familiar beach resorts, Kerala captivates you with almighty doses of what you will never have seen before.

Kerala is a vividly ritualistic place – and that’s what I love about it most. The entrancing dance form of kathakali, during which performers enact Hindu folk stories in breathtakingly lavish costumes, comes from here. Kerala is the locale of festivals of almost theatrical lavishness, like Onam, with its parades of decorated elephants and floats, kathakali performances and carpets of many-colored flower petals arranged in kaleidoscopic designs.

This is also the place that gave us Ayurveda, one of the world’s oldest and best-known holistic healing methodologies. The south of Kerala is replete with Ayurveda retreats where you can cleanse yourself through specialized treatments, a plant-based diet and the simple act of kicking back in peaceful surroundings for a while. The Ayurvedic influence has also helped make the state probably the most vegetarian-friendly destination on the globe.

Go to Goa to party; come to Kerala to open your eyes and see all the culture.

Topographically, Kerala virtually owns the word “backwater.” The maze of channels, lakes and inlets constituting the Kerala backwaters fans out from Alappuzha to cover around 1000km (621 miles). This extraordinary wetland ecosystem is made up of fresh and brackish water, ensuring incredible species diversity. A journey by houseboat through these waterways – watching out for the likes of turtles, rice paddies and idyllic backdoor village life – is a highlight of any trip to India.

Equally magnificent (in a much more mountainous way) is the Munnar region, where hills of shimmering green are latticed by some of South India’s most important tea gardens.

High above Munnar, the national parks of Eravikulam, Anamudi Shola and Pampadum Shola (for the record, Goa has but one national park in total) protect expanses of high-altitude, grassland-surrounded tropical shola forests that harbor many endangered species, including Nilgiri tahr (wild goats), Nilgiri martens, leopards and tigers.

Other attractions – lesser-known internationally – showcase more of Kerala’s one-of-a-kind character: the petroglyph-inscribed cavern system of Edakkal Caves, or mountain-flanked Thirunelly Temple, one of the subcontinent’s oldest temples.

And if you do demand divine sandy beaches as a prerequisite for a visit, the state has a surfeit of them: see for yourself at Varkala, near Thiruvananthapuram (known for its nearby Ayurvedic wellness centers), or serene Marari Beach. Perhaps most important for the prospective traveler, Kerala is a lush, verdant enclave where you can slow down, seek tranquility and recharge in a way not possible elsewhere in India.

Kerala has a length and breadth both of terrain and of character that party place Goa can never match. So I’ll share one memory that sums up why the state should have the edge for your next big trip.

Just back from the coast north of Alappuzha, I recall arriving toward the last glowing light of day at a homestay, eyeing a rickety old boat moored at the waterside and spontaneously deciding to row off for a while through the shady lagoon, which was already plunged into evening shadow. Suddenly, around a bend, a glorious stretch of palm-hemmed, sandy beach revealed itself. Unlike Goa’s manicured strands, it was by no means pristine – but it was populated by a small group of local folks practicing yoga, all bathed in the fiery red of the setting sun.

This, for me, epitomized the perfect Kerala adventure.

Winter in Europe can be lovely: bundles of pillowy snow, steaming mulled wine at Christmas markets, the crunching score of ice skates on a frozen canal. But then comes the rain. And the biting winds. That never-ending darkness. Who doesn’t miss the sun and soul-restoring doses of vitamin D?

As 2025 kicks off, it’s the perfect time to start thinking about seeking out some winter sun. Luckily, Europeans don’t have to go far to find some rays even in the darkest months. Europe’s southern reaches provide plenty of blue skies, sunshine and mild (even if not-quite-tropical tropical) temperatures. What’s more, traveling in the low season means accommodation and car rental can be gloriously cheap, while beaches and local attractions are wonderfully empty.

Here are the best and sunniest spots for a European winter vacation. Feel your toes thawing out already?

1. The Algarve, Portugal

Best for continuous sunshine

With more than 300 days of sunshine a year and 87 Blue Flag beaches, the Algarve has become an increasingly popular winter-sun destination. The season is when waterfalls roar back to life in the eucalyptus-filled Monchique Mountains, and migrating birds flock to Ria Formosa Natural Park. Even popular Quinta do Lago Beach is blissfully quiet this time of year. If you can handle sea temperatures of a chilly 57°F (14°C), this is also the season for surfing. Work up an appetite before finding dinner in the whitewashed towns of Faro, Lagos or Tavira.

Rainy-day rescue: The interior of São Lourenço church near Loulé is an azulejo-lover’s dream. The ornate blue tiles here cover almost every inch, floor to ceiling.

2. Turquoise Coast, Türkiye

Best for crystal-clear waters – without the crowds

Türkiye’s Turquoise Coast is a tourist magnet in summer (perhaps the famous shade of that water has something to do it?). Yet when the crowds have dispersed, there’s nothing but you, those views and an average of 10 hours of sunshine a day. Moderate temperatures mean hiking is nowhere near as sweaty as it would be in August – so why not tackle a bit of the 335-mile (540km) Lycian Way? The route winds between Fethiye and Antalya, passing countless ancient ruins and clifftop wonders along the way, including the remains of Levissi, ancient Patara and the (mostly) sunken city of Simena.

Rainy-day rescue: Warm up, give your legs a rest and enjoy a treatment at a hammam (Turkish bath), found in most major towns.

3. Malta

Best for green countryside, culture and history

Malta can be scorching in the summer. So the cooler days of winter, when temperatures rarely dip below 50°F (10°C), are ideal for exploring the great outdoors on this Mediterranean island nation. Rock climbing and hiking are particularly pleasant in the off-season, as the rural landscape is at its greenest. Culture and history buffs should visit Mnajdra Temple and see this ancient megalith in good weather. Come February, the Maltese Carnival brings parades and late-night parties galore.

Rainy-day rescue: If you need to seek shelter from a shower, the gilded baroque interior of St John’s Co-Cathedral in UNESCO-listed Valletta always shines.

4. Sicily, Italy

Best for fresh produce year-round

Magical Sicily is full of color in winter. Citrus trees are heavy with ripening oranges, lemons and limes. Food-market stalls in Catania and Palermo creak under the weight of fresh vegetables, fish and seasonal walnuts. And all over the island, locals are preparing for Carnevale (the most famous celebration, Carnevale Acireale, takes place in 2025 from February 16 to March 4). While the weather can change at the drop of a blood orange, 8 hours of sunshine a day and average highs reaching double those in London make it worth taking your chances.

Rainy-day rescue: Villa Romana del Casale is home to the most significant collection of Roman floor mosaics in the world – and a wooden roof protects them (and you) from the elements.

5. Cyprus

Best for the warmest Mediterranean winter

With more than 340 days of sunshine a year, Cyprus is your best bet for warmth winter in Europe (albeit at the continent’s southeastern edge, in the Mediterranean). While snow glitters on the peaks of the Troödos Mountains, coastal areas, particularly in the east, stay warmer and drier. Stay in Larnaka to spot flamingos dancing around their winter home on the nearby salt lake before heading west to explore historic treasures such as the 3rd-century-BCE Tombs of the Kings and Ancient Kourion.

Rainy-day rescue: Spend a wet afternoon among the ancient artifacts of the Cyprus Museum in Nicosia, or find a cozy taverna for a leisurely Cypriot-style lunch.

6. Seville, Spain

Best for Mudejar style – and sunshine

If you fancy a fair-weather winter city break, look no further than Seville. Temperatures can rise to 63°F (17°C), with at least 6 hours of sunshine a day (though packing an umbrella is always wise). Top sights like the Plaza de Espana and the Real Alcázar feature indoor areas and outdoor delights, allowing you to bask in the sunshine and hide from a passing shower. Finish a day of sunny sightseeing with a sunset stroll through the modern Metropol Parasol, known locally as Las Setas (“the Mushrooms”).

Rainy-day rescue: Take a tour of Seville’s stunning Cathedral, or stamp, tap and shimmy through the Flamenco Dance Museum, where you can also arrange a lesson or watch pros perform.

7. Canary Islands, Spain

Best for waves and dunes, hidden coves and kites

Want sand dunes and hidden coves? Volcanic national parks and forested mountains? How about colorful villages, tempting restaurants and water sports galore? It’s all here, all year. Tenerife and Gran Canaria are generally the warmest of the Canary Islands in winter, with highs around 71°F (22°C). Lanzarote and Fuerteventura can be a little windy – which isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you’re heading there to surf or take part in the latter’s annual kite festival. Lesser-known La Gomera, La Palma and El Hierro will feel even more off-the-radar than usual in winter, though they will have (you guessed it) plenty of sun.

Rainy-day rescue: Let the weather slow you down: book an appointment at one of the islands’ many spas for a massage, followed by a trip to a local vineyard or bar to taste local wines.

8. Madeira, Portugal

Best for experiencing “eternal spring”

Mild winters are standard in Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago some 309 miles (498 km) north of the Canary Islands. Temperatures rarely drop below 57°F (14°C) here – which is why the climate is always described as “eternal spring.” Beaches are rocky but the sea is warm, so pack your swimsuit – or stay above the waves by joining a dolphin- and whale-spotting tour. If you prefer dry land, Madeira’s rugged interior is ideal for hiking. Follow a trail along a levada – an ancient network of channels that distributed water around the island for over a century, which are these days sources of hydropower.

Rainy-day rescue: Relax with afternoon tea while watching the rain fall. Historic, deluxe Belmond Reid’s Palace in Funchal has welcomed Winston Churchill, Roger Moore (aka James Bond) and countless other grandees over the decades.

9. Balearic Islands, Spain

Best for epic beaches and peerless sunsets

Adored by summer vacationers, these Spanish islands are just as lovable come winter. Ibiza’s pumping beats and party crowds will have left – but the epic sunsets and beaches remain. Culture-packed Mallorca, meanwhile, is quieter and cheaper. Lesser-visited Menorca lures nature fans with decent walking weather for tackling the Camí de Cavalls coastal path, while tiny Formentera beckons to those who want total seclusion.

Rainy-day rescue: If you’re going to get wet, you may as well go diving. Relatively mild sea temperatures allow for diving around the Balearics’ caverns and shipwrecks year-round.

10. Crete, Greece

Best for having deserted resort towns all to yourself

In the winter low season, you can only reach Crete via Athens – and although most resort towns will be all but deserted, basing yourself in the cities of Heraklion or Hania will give you a sense of low-season life. Numerous restaurants and bars remain open in both, and they’re equally good spots for snagging a low-priced car rental to explore the island. On sunny days, you might find you have the pink-tinged sands of Elafonisi or the Palace of Knossos all to yourself. Temperatures can reach highs of 61°F (16°C) in January, but the nights are much colder, so pack layers. Still chilly? An evening with a bottle of local raki should warm you up.

Rainy-day rescue: Uncover five millennia of history at Heraklion Archaeological Museum, one of the best museums in all of Greece.