October 21, 2015 Read time - 3 minutes Glistening white-capped peaks, hushed forests beneath steely-blue skies, the rhythmic crunch of fresh snow underfoot – there’s nothing quite like Europe in winter. European Winter Holidays When it comes to winter holidays, first thoughts always turn to the Alps, but beautiful as the Alps are, you certainly won't have them to yourself... the truth is that Europe has so much more to offer. So join us on a rundown of our top five unusual winter destinations! Bosnia & Herzegovina Snowshoeing in Bosnia Bosnia is an unusual travel destination, full stop! But the world is missing out on one of Europe's most brilliant winter destinations, a vast and wonderful snowy wilderness ripe for exploring. Prepare to immerse yourself in a rich culture and marvel at sheer mountains, quiet forests and snow-covered fields. Find out more: Trips to Bosnia Albania Winter adventure in Albania Wild, untamed and ruggedly handsome, the Albanian Alps cut a striking figure against the sky. Between wild meadows and dense forests, you’ll find charming rural hamlets and farms dating back centuries. Prepare to explore the path less travelled – for years, Albania was closed to tourists, and to this day it remains almost untouched by that influence. Find out more: Holidays in Albania Transylvania Transylvania in winter The home of fiction’s greatest vampire is a region of immense natural beauty. Rolling hills give way to dramatic crags, primaeval forests hum with life, and gothic castles pierce the sky. History and mythology permeate the Carpathian Mountains – everything from traditional Christmas markets to the Bran Castle, resplendent upon its wooded hill. Find out more: Transylvania trips Bulgaria Snow-covered Bulgarian mountains From soaring summits of the Rodopi Mountains to the cool depths of steep gorges, from eerie underground caves to grey wolves which prowl between ancient trees, Bulgaria’s beauty is only enhanced by the snows of winter. Hearty meals and roaring fires fortify you against the cold and prepare you for each day’s walking in this isolated Eastern wilderness. Find out more: Winter adventure trips to Bulgaria Browse more trips below to these unusual winter destinations.
Snowshoeing & Winter Walking on Bosnia’s Olympic Mountains 19 reviews Discover untouched landscapes and a fusion of cultures Winter Suitable for: Age 16+ Activity level: Moderate / Challenging Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
High Peaks of Bulgaria 22 reviews Ascend Bulgaria's two highest peaks Walking & Trekking Suitable for: Age 18+ Activity level: Challenging 8 Days from £999 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Bosnia & Beyond 53 reviews Experience the cultural variety and natural beauty of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Montenegro Culture Suitable for: Age 16+ Activity level: Leisurely / Moderate 11 Days from £1,499 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Highlights of Albania 31 reviews Enjoy outstanding natural beauty and rich culture in undiscovered Albania Culture Suitable for: Age 16+ Activity level: Leisurely / Moderate 10 Days from £949 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Bulgaria: Rodopi Mountains 24 reviews Spectacular trekking in Bulgaria's mountain landscape Walking & Trekking Suitable for: Age 16+ Activity level: Moderate 8 Days from £999 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Transylvania Winter Walk & Snowshoe 14 reviews Wander through the mountains and forests of wintery Transylvania. Winter Suitable for: Age 16+ Activity level: Moderate 8 Days from £949 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details
Transylvania and the Carpathian Mountains Explore fairytale castles and traditional churches Walking & Trekking Suitable for: Age 13+ Activity level: Moderate 8 Days from £1,659 Guided (Excl. Flights) View More Details