Cold weather quickly becomes a cause for celebration when winter sports get going. The drop in temperature doesn’t seem so bad if there’s the possibility of snowboarding in Cardrona, dog-sledding in Canada, or soaking in a hot spring after a long day on the slopes in Japan.

Say goodbye to being stuck indoors with a game of Monopoly, because we’ve picked out five winter holidays that’ll get your blood pumping - and inspire you to start planning your own icy escape.

Whistler, Western Canada
With over 200 trails and 8100 acres of terrain, it’s no surprise that Whistler is ranked as the number one ski resort in North America. Not only are the views majestic, but Whistler Village knows how to party. If you get tired of the downhill slopes, switch things up and try cross-country skiing or snow-shoeing - or take the lazy option and see Canada’s stunning back country by horse-drawn sleigh or dog-sledding team. With plenty of seasonal jobs available, many Antipodean OErs spend an entire winter here working on the ski fields - and with so many activities on offer, you’d need a whole season to experience them all.

Wanaka, New Zealand
Avoid the crowds of tourists in Queenstown, and head to our other lake-side town nestled between the mountains - Wanaka. As one of the few locations in New Zealand to enjoy a four-season climate, Wanaka boasts some of the best scenery in the country. Autumn’s a riot of red and gold, while winter leaves a picturesque layer of snow across the landscape. Use Wanaka as a base for accessing the Cardrona and Treble Cone ski fields, or try out cross-country skiing at the nearby Snow Farm. After a day on the pistes, retreat to your cosy lodge to relax with a glass of local wine.

Niseko, Japan
Located on Japan’s northern island, Hokkaido, Niseko is something of a well-kept secret. Its small population means that the 61 ski runs are never crowded, while the views over Mt Yokei, the giant volcano opposite, are incredible. The runs also stay open late for skiing under the stars. Soothe your aches and pains apres-ski in a traditional onsen (natural hot spring) with a cup of sake, and hit the neighbouring town for some raucous karaoke - or go exploring with your tastebuds and indulge in yakitori, sashimi, or domburi at a local restaurant.

Methven, New Zealand
Often overlooked in favour of Queenstown, Methven is Canterbury’s hub for snowsports and crazy winter adventure. Try heliskiing, where you’re airlifted to ski or board in fresh, untouched snow, or hot air ballooning - the Canterbury plains and mountain backdrop make this one of the best places in the country for floating leisurely through the sky. Adventure-tourism staples like skydiving, jetboating and horse trekking are also available. Easily accessible from Christchurch, Methven is within reach of nine ski fields and gorgeously rugged, Lord-of-the-Rings-style landscape.

Grindelwald, Switzerland
Roll out your Switzerland cliches, because Grindelwald has them all. Tiny slope-roofed chalets dotting the valley floor below majestic mountain faces? Check. Cowbells, cheese fondue, and trains that run right on time? You bet. In summer, Grindelwald’s the best place in Switzerland for living out your Heidi fantasies. In winter, it boasts superb skiing, especially if - like us - you’re not quite at pro level yet. What’s more, the Swiss have cuteness down to a fine art. Wandering around Grindelwald’s tiny town centre, you’ll use up the battery on your camera faster than we can say ‘winter wonderland’.

Rebekah White