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Dreaming of a ‘White Christmas’? – go skiing

Christmas only comes round once a year, and if like most people you welcome the festive season with open arms, you’ll be looking for ways to make it truly memorable. While some people choose to escape to warmer climates to celebrate the festivities, most of us prefer holding out for that elusive ‘White Christmas’ on homeground. This year, how about taking a more proactive approach of guaranteeing snow by opting for a ski holiday? In case you’re lacking inspiration, here is our pick of the best snow-filled delights for your Christmas break:

Kitzbuhel, Austria

Austria is renowned for its skiing credentials, but this particular resort has a little something to please everyone. Once you’ve exhausted the slopes, plenty of pampering opportunities can be found at the resort’s spa, but it is the 16^th-century, fairy-tale-like castle against the frosty backdrop that will bring the true Christmas spirit to your stay here.

Levi, Lapland

What better place to spend a true family Christmas than in Santa’s homeland itself? At the Levi resort in Lapland, you can kill two birds with one stone thanks to its excellent powdery slopes and festive affiliations with Saint Nicholas. Ho ho ho, this is definitely one for the kids.

Val d’Isere, France

Swishing down the slopes at the spectacular Val d’Isere resort is skiing at its finest. This little alpine nirvana is particularly popular with experienced skiers and pros, but there is also plenty on offer for all ski levels, from high drops to big pipes. Its location is also ideal for exploring other parts of festive France, being surrounded by top notch golf courses and plenty of Christmas shopping opportunities.

St Moritz, Switzerland

If rubbing shoulders with the rich and famous sounds like your idea of a fun-filled Christmas, then jet off to St. Moritz in the Swiss Alps, where the likes of David Beckham and Michael Schumacher have paraded down the pistes. You can even partake in one of your favourite sports on one of their many frozen lakes - but beware of the cracks! Switzerland is also a Christmassy haven, where a warming mug of mulled wine will really get you in the festive mood.

Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy

If you’re dreaming of an Italian Christmas this year, the Cortina d’Ampezzo resort in Italy could be just the place. This is a true alpine paradise, complete with snowcapped peaks and festive pine trees scattering the pistes. It is also home to the Winter Olympics, thus boasting some of the best snow in Europe.

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