Nothing beats a hot cup of cocoa by a roaring fireplace while wearing comfy sweats wrapped in a blanket. Add a good book during a heavy snowfall, and it’s about as perfect a day as it gets! Invented by the Danish, “hygge” simply means cozy, and it’s how we should all winter. According to the official Visit Denmark website, “hygge means creating a warm atmosphere and enjoying the good things in life with good people…Perhaps hygge explains why Danes are some of the happiest people in the world.” Inspired by this way of life, we’ve put together 8 destinations to visit this winter to embrace a hygge vibe for a well-deserved break.

Boyne City/Falls, Michigan

Michigan is one of the stateside hidden treasures. The further North you go, the more beautiful it gets. Boyne Mountain in Michigan is a Midwestern delight offering all winter sports and a cozy, wintry atmosphere. Boyne Mountain is in Boyne Falls, but for a more city-centric location, the neighboring Boyne City is an equally charming escape. Mind you, when we say “city,” we mean a good-sized central downtown area. Between the two towns, Boyne is truly a catch-all destination with Lake Charlevoix, the mountain, a cheerful Main Street, resorts, secluded cabins, and more to choose from. No matter what type of trip - or size group - you’re planning for, there are plenty of options for everyone, making it ideal to DIY a hygge-style getaway.

Located about ninety minutes from Traverse City, Boyne Mountain has been offering year-round activities for 75 years. From a plentiful art district to hiking trails and a Morel Mushroom festival to holiday festivities, there’s much to do no matter what time of year you visit but there is something magical about being near the mountain in winter. Whether you’re adventurous at heart and ready to lace up those ski boots or prefer to stay in and enjoy the snowdrifts while sipping a cup of hot cocoa, don’t sleep on this Michigan winter wonderland. It has so much to offer, and good Midwestern hospitality is always something to look forward to.

Copenhagen, Denmark

With Denmark responsible for the hygge way of life, it seems silly not to include this winter-loving country. Visit Copenhagen’s website says the city is the “home of happiness and hygge.” We have no reason to disagree with that statement, so why not try Copenhagen in the heart of winter? For an authentic hygge experience, you’d want a welcoming and comfortable destination. Denmark has long been considered one of the happiest countries, so it’s only natural that it has some of the friendliest people when it comes to visitors. It’s also an excellent opportunity to check out Copenhagen’s unbeatable culinary scene. Aside from getting cozy and eating plentifully, there are many sites to enjoy, from the Tivoli Gardens to the colorfully lined canals the city is famous for. Explore palaces and admire centuries' worth of history and detail in the artistry, unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Dolomites – Italy

Located in the Italian Alps near the Austrian border, the Dolomites are a stunning destination that should be on every bucket list. With a deep history, rich culture, and spectacular food scene, there’s not much you won’t find here. Probably the best destination on this list for winter sports, it’s easy to be active in the Dolomites and even easier to embrace hygge charm. We won’t begin to narrow down exactly where you should stay because, quite frankly, there’s not a bad spot in the region. Instead, research a little to find a town or resort that fits precisely what you need this winter. Whether that’s to be dominating the slopes or enjoying that apres-ski life, there’s truly something for everyone. Check out this CondeNast Traveler piece by Jemima Sissons for a beautifully written Dolomite feature.

Inverness, Scotland

A true winter retreat, Inverness is one of many destinations in Scotland that make for a perfect hygge retreat. The capital of the Scottish Highlands, Inverness is a much smaller city compared to Edinburgh but charming just the same. Stay in the city for an experience filled with a little bit more energy, or rent a country retreat deeper in the Highlands if you’re looking for something a bit more quiet. Scotland has a rich history throughout the entire country. Map out historical ruins and old castles to leisurely venture through, take a winter hike through the countryside, and enjoy hearty, warm meals by the fire. A great option for shorter trips, Inverness doesn’t get tons of snow on average – that’s reserved for higher up in the mountains of the Highlands – but there’s no denying the cozy atmosphere with the brisk temperatures and short days.

Newport, Rhode Island

Those looking to indulge in a winter retreat on tight funds need to look no further than Newport, Rhode Island. Thanks to the city’s bustling summer atmosphere, this cozy northeastern destination typically is in a low season over the winter months which means lower prices for the big ticket items like lodging. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to slow down and experience the area with less crowds. Newport is one of those American towns that give off Gilmore Girls vibes. Settle in a cafe, get in a little reading, and walk home to curl up with a good movie while a fire keeps you warm. Newport is also home to several famous Gilded Age mansions including The Breakers, built as a summer home for the Vanderbilt family, and Rosecliff, built for a silver heiress who loved to host parties. Marble House, another home for the Vanderbilts, will be open mid-January 2025 and The Elms, inspired by a French Chateau, will be open in February 2025. Visiting in winter offers a chance to explore these architectural gems without the usual summer crowds.

Oslo, Norway

On the other hand, if you are in the mood to splurge on a winter vacation, Oslo is exactly what you’re looking for. With prices a little lighter during the winter months, there are usually sales on flights and lodging and a number of free things to do if you’d like to try and save in some ways. Oslo has a superior coffee scene with cozy cafes and delightful pastries - just what we need to indulge the hygge way of life. Oslo embraces the season with an abundance of winter activities and sports, thanks to all the heavy snowfall they receive. Just like many of the other destinations on this list, if skiing and spending a day in the snow doesn’t sound like your cup of tea, there are plenty of lodges and resorts to take advantage of with roaring fireplaces, spas, saunas, and everything you could possibly need for a genuinely hygge experience.

Tallinn, Estonia

An option outside the usual contenders for winter travel, Tallinn is a magical getaway. The city finds itself low on tourists through the colder months, making it a quiet town but gorgeous when blanketed with snow. Cozy up somewhere within the historic city to explore at your own pace. Like in Scotland, the days are much shorter in Tallinn, with the sun rising as late as 9:30 am and setting as early as 3:30 pm. It’s a chance to slow down, enjoy long nights for much-needed rest, and return to regular life refreshed. Enjoy museums and take mini walks around Old Town. Estonia has many churches and cathedrals to admire, all of which have accessible bell towers for jaw-dropping 360-degree views of the city. Could you imagine being able to do this while there’s snow everywhere?

Woodstock, Vermont

A popular ski destination on the East Coast, Woodstock is located in the Green Mountains and full of old colonial charm. Known for its unique architecture among homes and churches, Woodstock is a year-round destination with picturesque views. The town is especially delightful in the cold and snowy winter and great for enjoying winter sports or wandering historic sites. Located near several major cities, including Boston, Montreal, and New York City, Woodstock is a popular destination so it’s best to plan a trip in advance. From award-winning bed and breakfasts to showstopping resorts, Woodstock has accommodations for every budget, style, and group size.

8 Destinations for a Hygge-Inspired Winter Retreat

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