This Charming Region Was Named Europe’s Most Overlooked Winter Getaway Destination

The winter travel season tends to be dominated by skiers and snowboarders all ranting and raving about their favorite mountains and which ones get the best snow. (And I should know — I am perhaps the most vocal offender.) However, as European ferry operator DFDS proved, there are plenty of winter destinations worthy of your travels and have absolutely nothing to do with hurtling down a mountain. 

In December, DFDS released its report, which analyzed 23 years' worth of winter snowfall data across 164 European towns and cities outside of ski resorts to reveal which ones have the highest chance of snowfall this winter, creating the ultimate seasonal wonderlands. But it didn't stop there. The team also corresponded the weather results with Google search data to uncover which destinations were the least searched to help holidaymakers find lesser-known spots so they could claim they visited a true hidden gem.

After doing all that work, it named Ålesund, Norway, the top destination for a snow-filled winter break getaway. 

“Ålesund offers a more relaxed and less crowded experience compared to other Norwegian destinations,” the team wrote in its findings. “Visitors will be captivated by the snow-capped mountains and picturesque fjords (long, deep, narrow bodies of water with steep cliff sides) that surround Ålesund, set against the backdrop of its unique Art Nouveau architecture. The town was rebuilt in this style after a fire in 1904, and its colorful buildings stand out against the white snow.” 

The company added that travelers can also explore the port town's Art Nouveau Centre Museum or wander through the “charming streets,” while its official tourism website also suggested kayaking through the Brosundet canal or hiking to the top of the Mount Aksla viewpoint for a breathtaking view. 

And, just in case, DFDS noted that skiers can still find a thrill at Strandafjellet, a nearby resort “renowned for its deep powder and stunning views.” 

Other top spots for winter getaways include Kristiansand, also in Norway, which the site explained is “typically known for its beaches during the summer months. With 37 days of snowfall over winter, visitors can enjoy the destination’s breathtaking coast from a completely different perspective.” It's followed by Jūrmala, Latvia, Košice, Slovakia, and Freiburg in Germany, rounding out the top five.

See all the winter getaways that even non-skiers will love at dfds.com.