Top Yoga Destinations to Embrace the Winter Season
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Winter is just around the corner! It’s time to take out your jacket, scarf, and snow boots out of storage! Isn’t it exciting?
Though the cold weather may not be of some people’s preference, we strongly believe that all seasons have their unique charm.
Before you think that the low temperatures may have frozen my thoughts, that’s only because you haven’t thought about all the great things that come with winter: beautiful snowy landscapes, the cheerful spirit of the holidays, quality time with the family, and amazing winter yoga retreats that embrace the magic of the season!
If you feel as we do and also prefer to keep active in the snow rather than hibernating for months, we have good news for you: There are many yoga destinations all around the world that are just ideal to get in the mood for a joyful winter.
Here, we are sharing a list of our picks of yoga destinations ideal for the snowy season. If you choose to embrace the winter, you’re bound to find a retreat that brings up your happy spirit!
Norway
Photo credit: Vivian Shang
If you’re really an enthusiast of the cold weather, then there is no better place to go than Norway. Its territory stretches well up north of the Arctic circle, which means you won’t find many places closer to the North Pole! And thankfully there are some fabulous yoga retreats that combine the majesty of that white landscape with the asana practice.
Can you imagine doing your favorite yoga pose under the breathtaking Northern Lights? It is surely possible on a yoga retreat in Kirkenes, a tiny town near the Russian border, right in the heart of Northern Lights territory! And if you’re a bit worried that the cold might be too much, don’t you worry because there are sauna rooms and spa cabins with spectacular views, so you don’t miss a glimpse of the Aurora.
Ireland
Photo credit: Aloha House
The culture and folklore of the Irish is something hard to replicate, especially during the holiday season. Ireland is the perfect place to start the new year due to the cheerfulness of its population and long tradition of Christmas celebrations. After all, leprechauns are somewhat similar to elves and they live there all year long.
Aside from the fairy tale atmosphere, the country is so beautiful that even with the cold weather it makes you want to go out and join the spirit. And if you need a boost to start with your New Year resolutions, a yoga and detox retreat in Ireland might very well be what you need. You get a good cleanse, practice yoga, get on a healthy diet, and start the New Year fresh and rejuvenated.
Iceland
Photo credit: Inspiration Iceland
Famous for its peculiar territory full of volcanoes, hot springs, caves, waterfalls, geysers, and not to forget the possibility of seeing the Aurora Borealis, Iceland makes it a spectacular yoga destination with lots of things to do during winter.
Reykjavik is a fantastic spot for winter and yoga enthusiasts, and you can even catch a glimpse of the Northern Lights. A day here is filled with yoga classes to provide you with mindfulness to explore the wilderness of Iceland and immerse in natural adventures that can only be found in this part of the world!
Germany
Photo credit: Satya Mountain Yoga
Another Northern country made it on the list for good reasons: with long winters and a sturdy tradition of snow sports, they have no other option but to embrace their climate and make the most of it. Germany has some of the most picturesque towns in Europe, especially in wintertime: the gingerbread-like architecture of old squares is like nothing else you can admire.
Can you imagine spending several days doing yoga in an old lodge-style spa center surrounded by rocky hills and forests? It is possible to do it on a yoga & Ayurveda retreat in Germany. You’ll join daily yoga sessions, and eat Ayurvedic foods and there are hot tubes and saunas to get warm while still enjoying the nice snowy view. A great option for a winter yoga holiday!
» Read more: Top 5 Weekend Yoga Retreats in Germany
USA (New York)
Photo credit: EarthMind Wellness
The Northeast of the USA had to be on this list. Many inhabitants complain about the long winters, but many are grateful for the opportunity of having snowy holidays every year!
With all the shiny lights in the streets, one of the biggest Christmas trees in the world, and many events taking place to celebrate the holidays, New York City is just a terrific spot to immerse in the spirit of the season. And the best part is that, not far from NYC, Upstate New York has many wonderful natural spots for a yoga retreat too.
That’s why, during winter, many yogis go north to practice their asanas. A great place to start is on a yoga & hiking retreat in New York: daily yoga classes will be perfectly complemented by the light hikes and nature trails waiting to be explored regardless of the season.
Northern Italy
Photo credit: Inspire Travel
If you thought snow in Italy was the stuff of legends, let me remind you that it has even snowed in the South! Crisp air and snowflakes aren’t avoiding this gorgeous European country, but if you want to embrace the cold season, the Northern part of Italy should be on your bucket list.
Turin is the gateway into the Alps. And while most visitors choose to visit it as a stopover before hitting the powdery stops, the city is surely worth a longer stay.
The star of Italian winter escapes remains Tuscany. A yoga retreat in Florence comes with daily yoga sessions, as well as shopping and art tours in one of the most stunning cities in the world. And if you fancy hitting the slopes, there’s a ski resort just an hour’s drive from Florence!
» Read more: Affordable Yoga Retreats in Italy
France
Photo credit: Les Hauts de Saint-Lary****
Winter is most beautiful in the picture-perfect villages dotting the Alps, Alsace, and Loire Valley areas.
Frosted cobblestone streets, hearty dishes, world-class museums, and fantastic castles are just a few of the reasons why you should plan a visit during the heart of winter.
And if you have some free time on your hands, don’t forget to browse some of the sparkly Christmas Markets, too. Paris can also be gorgeous, especially if there’s a fresh layer of snow covering this fairy-tale European city. Just remember to dress accordingly as it can get quite frosty here!
Planning to welcome the new year in a healthy, yet glitzy manner? Join a yoga & wellness retreat in France. In the heart of the French Alps, you will join daily yoga sessions, go on mountain hikes, and get pampered with messages.
» Read more: Top Yoga Destinations for a Rejuvenating Short Break in France
Canada
Photo credit: Sarah Harvie
The Great White North offers the quintessential fairy-tale winter escape. The fun festivals, gorgeous snowy cities, and world-class ski reasons are just some of the reasons we love winter in Canada.
For the frostiest experience of all, why not check out the Quebec Ice Hotel? Everything is made of ice here, including the furniture. You can take a tour or have a drink at the bar.
If you are into unique activities, such as dog sledding and ice skating, then you’ve found your happy place. A yoga retreat in Calgary is exactly what you should be joining this winter. The city is gorgeous and there are a ton of things to do but you can also enjoy cross-country skiing, and hiking, and Banff National Park is right at your fingertips. Enjoy daily yoga, meditation, and the great outdoors.
» Read more: Top Yoga Retreats in Canada
Hero photo credit: MoaAlm Mountain Retreat
Did we get you in the mood to step out and embrace the winter? Book a snowy weekend yoga retreat and have fun this season.