Winter travel calls to each of us in different ways. Some crave the intimacy of family time by a crackling fire; others want to strap on a snowboard at sunrise and stay out on the slopes all day. At Nellie, we've guided families through winters everywhere from glass igloos in Finland to cozy chalets in Telluride, and we've learned that the best winter escapes are about finding exactly what feeds your soul during the quieter months.
Here are four of our favorite ways to embrace winter, each offering something completely different.
A stateside ski villa vacation
Why we love a “local” ski villa vacation: They give you the service and amenities of a luxury hotel with the intimacy of home. No rushing through breakfast or keeping quiet in hallways—just your family, your rhythms, and your mountains. Plus, when you stay in the states, you have shorter travel days so there’s more time to travel to relax and connect with family. From Telluride to Park City to Montana’s Big Sky, there’s a hill for every kind of skier and a villa and cozy fireplace for the family members that just want to snuggle up with a book.
Where to stay: We have access to exclusive properties that combine prime mountain locations with the space and privacy your family needs, all while delivering the personalized service you expect from a luxury hotel. From private chefs to ski guides, think of this vacation as your own private hotel just for you and your favorite loved ones.
The Nellie experience: We've seen too many families risk their precious vacation time on unvetted rentals. The horror stories are real—flying across the world only to walk into a property that doesn't match the photos. For special winter trips, especially during peak season, the peace of mind that comes with our vetted partnerships is invaluable.
A bucket-list trip to see the Northern Lights
Why we love Finnish Lapland in winter: Dog sledding through pristine wilderness, learning from Sami people about traditions that stretch back centuries, and witnessing the Northern Lights while reindeer bells chime in the distance—we can’t think of a more epic winter vacation. Plus this is a wonderful place to go with your family, whether they prefer an action-packed adventure (and maybe a Santa sighting) or they like a more luxurious, peaceful trip.
Where to stay: Northern Lights Ranch offers incredible glass-ceiling cabins where you can watch the aurora from the warmth of your bed. It's a luxury resort that enhances the natural environment in the most thoughtful way possible.
The Nellie experience: We can arrange both Northern Lights safaris for the optimal viewing experience and private cultural encounters with local Sami people that go far beyond typical tours. For families traveling with children, we can book a visit to a local reindeer farm where the kids can learn to feed, harness, and even lasso these gentle Arctic animals.
A family adventure in the Canadian Rockies
What we love about Banff in winter: Banff delivers that perfect combination of accessibility and adventure that makes it ideal for families who want to push their comfort zones without pushing their luck. It's close enough for a reasonable flight from most US cities, but different enough to feel like a true escape. Banff also offers a diversity of experiences: Ice climbing for the thrill-seekers, peaceful snowshoeing for the contemplative types, and world-class skiing for everyone in between.
Where to stay: The iconic Fairmont Banff Springs is called a "Castle in the Rockies" and offers that grand hotel experience with stunning mountain views, all while being just a five-minute car ride from downtown Banff. Don't miss their delicious brunch and the dark steakhouse vibes at 1881 Chop House, both on property.
The Nellie experience: We arrange private guides who know exactly where to find the best ice fishing spots. It may sound like something you'd endure rather than enjoy, but there's something deeply satisfying about the patience it requires and the way it connects you to the landscape in a completely different way.
A ski lovers dream trip to Niseko, Japan
Why we love Niseko: For those ready to venture farther, Niseko represents everything we love about transformative travel. Yes, the powder is legendary—dry, deep, and seemingly endless. But it's the cultural immersion that makes this trip unforgettable. You’ll stay in a traditional ryokan and learn to appreciate the ritual of onsen baths. Plus, the food is just next level and we know exactly which food truck to visit and which izakaya is the best.
Where to stay: Zaborin offers an authentic ryokan experience without sacrificing luxury. You'll need to shuttle to the lifts, but for travelers seeking that deeply immersive cultural experience with their skiing, nothing compares. The property features traditional Japanese architecture—think tatami rooms and futon beds—with modern amenities, private onsen baths, and kaiseki dining.
The Nellie experience: We handle the details that can make or break a Japan trip, like restaurant reservations that book up months in advance. And we can book you a private local ski guide who knows the mountain like the back of their hand and can lead you to the best powder stashes.
Ready to find your perfect winter escape? Let us plan something extraordinary.