5 magical destinations to spend the holidays
DEC. 2018
The cold numbs our senses little by little and December 24 is fast approaching ... Illuminated windows, gourmet markets and preparations for the festivities : the Christmas spirit is floating around us. What to celebrate the heart and, why not, give the desire to escape! If you are thirsty, here are 5 enchanting places where you can spend a magical Christmas with family or between lovers .
1. In Lapland, in the village of Santa Claus
In this holiday season, the village of Santa Claus, Finland, is the inevitable destination, one that amazes young and old ... Why not realize this dream by going to the heart of the Arctic Circle? It is here in Rovaniemi that Santa Claus has established his headquarters. His village is nestled in a magical environment of snow-covered forests and aurora borealis.
Good news, he thought of everything, and even without being an elf, you can stay comfortably. With many hotels with Scandinavian charm and activities for all, you can not miss a second! Between reindeer discovery, cross-country skiing , snowmobiling and sleigh rides, every moment promises to be unforgettable. The only imperative: leave warmly equipped to face the cold polar and enjoy the magic of the place in peace.
2. At the summit of the Pic du Midi
Feet on the ground, head in the stars ... Spend the night of Christmas in a splendid setting, at almost 3000 meters above sea level! For the past ten years, the observatory Pic du Midi (the highest in Europe) spent every night in night mode to offer lodging and cover to a handful of lucky. Located in France in the heart of the Pyrenees, the place has 27 beds (single or double rooms). The place is popular, but if you take it a little in advance, you may be lucky to stay there next year!
Access to the observatory is by cable car, and it already gives a precise idea of the sublime surrounding mountainous panorama. When night falls, it's time to enjoy this proximity to the sky in the planetarium. After discovering the sky and the stars in the company of a member of the team, dive into the cozy bed of a sober and contemporary room (furniture by Philippe Starck).
Well installed under the duvet, you can continue to observe the sky and the snowy mountains in all their immensity. In the early morning, you will have the chance to see the first light of dawn on the summits ...
3. Under palm trees in Papeete
In French Polynesia, Christmas is part of the traditional and warm celebrations that we like to celebrate, just like at home, the cold less! With its temperatures around 30 ° C, its turquoise waters and sandy beaches, Tahiti gives a furious desire to pack his suitcases illico. Swimwear, flip-flops and pareo are de rigueur, since in the island, the month of December rhymes with full summer!
Let's go for an exotic and exotic vacation on a background of setting sun and tam ... Here, the coconut trees replace the fir trees and the scents of vanilla perfume the atmosphere! In the program : Christmas market near the Cathedral of Our Lady of Papeete, tasting of local dishes made from raw fish or lobster and parties on the beach until the arrival of Santa Claus ... Moreover, in Papeete, he often trades his sleigh against a "va'a", the Polynesian canoe!
4. Sheltered in an igloo with a view of Mont Blanc
Imagine living the life of an Eskimo, the time of a night ... In a couple or family, the dream becomes possible in one of the igloo villages located in the Alps, facing Mont Blanc.
After a mulled wine and a comforting Savoyard fondue, you will be ready to explore this unusual hotel. Take time to admire the ice sculptures and discover the different construction techniques before you reach your room-igloo. Sleeping on a bed of ice and waking up against the highest peak of the alpine chain, it has something magical!
5. In an ice hotel in Quebec
If you dream of discovering Quebec City and Canadian landscapes, know that Christmas in the Belle Province is a real delight. In the country of caribou, Christmas is celebrated in the good mood and the animations do not miss. Often snowy at this time, Old Quebec shines a thousand lights and metamorphoses into a magical city: perfect for strolling and "shopping"!
To convince you, know that every winter, a luxurious ice fortress stands in the heart of Quebec City. This is the Hotel de Glace, a unique and ephemeral place where it is possible to stay in the best conditions. Here, each theme suite is designed as a work of art and offers a unique experience. Some are sober and sleek like a traditional igloo, others are entirely decorated with ice sculpture and snow. You will easily find the one that will make you melt for one night!
Under the snow or in the sun, you will inevitably find the stay of your dreams at your tour operator !
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