7 of the best Winter Retreats

Winter is all about being comfy and cosy. In the cold, we usually just really want to sit by a fire and snuggle up with a cup of tea and a blanket. That's why we've found seven perfect winter retreats. And there's something for everyone. From waking up to beautiful views of the mountains, winter walks, skiing or hiding out in a chalet, to seeing the Northern Lights and bathing in hot springs. So whether your more of a snuggler or you love to be active, make sure to treat yourself to a little getaway this winter. You'll come back so much happier and refreshed to work through those final days of the cold season.

1. Park City, Utah, USA - located just 35 minutes from Salt Lake City, Park City offers endless recreation, fine dining and Olympic dreams. Highlights are bobsled rides on the Olympic tracks of 2002, hot air balloon rides over the towns and the world class spas. Relaxation and recreation all in one place - perfect! More on www.visitparkcity.com

2. Ice Hotel, Jukkasjärvi, Sweden - a dream location built entirely from snow and ice, the ice hotel is a once in a lifetime retreat in northern Sweden, where winter barely even sees daylight. Experience tranquility, northern lights and vast wilderness 200km north of the Arctic Circle. Just don't forget to wrap up warm! More on www.icehotel.com

3. Lech, Zuers am Arlberg, Austria - one for the active. Ski Arlberg provides a unique winter sports experience with 97 cable cars and lifts, 340km of prepared slopes and 200km of deep powder runs. Away from any hustle and bustle, nothing can stop you from enjoying the alpine glory and the rustic experience of Apré Ski in these two towns. Visit http://www.lechzuers.com/

4. Zermatt, Switzerland - one of the most famous Swiss regions is a self described winter fairy tale! This sun-drenched mountain area with views of one of the most spectacular mountains in the world - the Matterhorn - is perfect for anyone. There is sledging, winter hikes, snowshoe walking and even an igloo village. And if you're not getting active, you can always relax and get a tan on one of the many mountain restaurant terraces. More on www.zermatt.ch

5. Livigno, Italy - Livigno really is the heart of Europe. Try endless cross-country ski runs, long walks in the valleys or a horse and carriage ride through winter wonderland while the snow is glistening all around you. To complete your retreat in this traditional town, try the perfect Italian wines and food of this special region and dance the night away in one of the clubs. www.livigno.com

6. Glen Affric, Scotland - the Eagle Brae log cabins are for anyone who wants to hide away and enjoy the peace and quiet, preferably with a blanket and a book in hand. Located int he Scottish mountains, each is unique and built using Norwegian techniques. They are spacious and cosy at the same time, rustic but modern. You could get lost in a novel and reflect on life, or use the in-house wifi to stay in touch with the outside world. A perfectly contrasting retreat. www.eaglebrae.co.uk

7. Spyndleruv Mlyn, Czech Republic - this is a great ski resort for families, as it offers all kinds of winter sports and it's an easy region to try something new. From the many ski courses on offer, over cross-country ski slopes, to freestyle parks and snowboard half pipes, it offers something for everyone. It's also host to many European ski and snowboard races , which are always fun to watch! Find more on http://www.spindleruv-mlyn.com/