February
Where to go in February
Where to go in February
Perhaps you’re looking for a romantic break with the aim of getting away for Valentines Day. Consider a stay at the stylish Icehotel, snuggle up in a cosy log cabin in Finland or take a dip in a hot pot in Iceland any of which offer chances to see the northern lights. Perhaps an epic summer adventure in New Zealand is more to your liking. Read our expert recommendations for where to travel in February.
Iceland aurora hunting break
Far from being dark, cold and uninviting, winter in Iceland is a magical season. Long nights help maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights – especially if you stay at a lodge or hotel in the countryside far from city light pollution. By joining a small group holiday, you get the added bonus of an expert guide (to help you track down the aurora and learn how to capture it with your camera), plus all the logistics taken care of, from driving to food and accommodation. Almost as mesmerizing as the northern lights, Iceland’s waterfalls become frosted with ice during winter, and the snow contrasts vividly with its volcanic landscapes. Winter activities include glacier walking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing – or you could simply take an invigorating winter stroll along one of Iceland’s black-sand beaches.
Plus, whale watching boat trips are available from coastal villages along the Snaefellsnes Peninsula
Winter escape to Finland
Perfect if you’re dreaming of a log cabin with a crackling open fire, tucked away in the forest, Finnish Lapland offers an authentic Arctic experience during winter. Untainted by light pollution, the northern lights shine brightly here – all you need to do is step outside your cabin and look up. There’s a great choice of properties to choose from. Snuggled into trees above Lake Inari, 350km north of the Arctic Circle, Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers log cabins with private saunas, or Aurora Bubbles for northern lights gazing from the comfort of your bed. Husky sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling are all included in our holidays here. The wilderness resort of Iso-Syote has panoramic views across snow-covered fells and forests, while Ranua offers glass igloos or family villas close to an Arctic wildlife park – ideal for a February half term escape with the kids.
Valentine’s Day in the Far North
Take a romantic break in an amazing hotel in Swedish Lapland – there are several unique properties to choose from. The Icehotel is renowned for its intricately sculpted Art Suites – the bed bases are solid ice, covered with a thick mattress and reindeer furs. Snuggle into thermal sleeping bags – a double if you like – and enjoy a fantastic range of activities from snowmobiling to starlit dinners. Our signature Icehotel Break includes one night sleeping on ice and another two in warm accommodation staying in stylish cabins. A few hours’ drive to the south, the Treehotel is home to seven grown-up treehouses. The Mirror Cube is camouflaged by reflective walls, while the Flying Saucer appears to hover in a forest clearing. Activities range from husky sledding to a soak in a wood-fired outdoor bathtub. Down on the river, you can really indulge yourself at the Arctic Bath Hotel. The main building actually floats on the river, it’s circular ‘log-jam’ design concealing saunas, treatment rooms and a central plunge pool.
Peak time for whale watching in Antarctica
February sees Antarctic waters teeming with a wide range of cetacean species, including humpback, blue, sperm, minke and southern right whale. The receding sea ice not only makes it easier to spot them, but also allows for freer exploration on a small expedition cruise ship. This is a good month to explore south, beyond the Polar Circle. Rapidly growing penguin chicks are beginning to moult as they prepare to take their first dip in the sea, while seals on South Georgia are also gaining weight and confidence.
Height of summer in New Zealand
Not only is February one of the warmest months to visit New Zealand, but schools usually return at the beginning of the month so you’ll have more of the sights to yourself. With plenty of sunshine and temperatures reaching highs of around 25ºC, it’s a wonderful time for enjoying the country’s great outdoors. There’s a huge range of activities available, from hiking and mountain biking to sea kayaking and swimming with dolphins. Take in iconic experiences such a cruise on Milford Sound, whale watching in Kaikoura or journey across South Island on the TranzAlpine railway enjoying the warmth of later summer.
Half term skiing in Scandinavia
February is a popular time for skiing, but how about venturing away from the busy resorts of continental Europe to the quieter slopes of Scandinavia? Choose from two family-friendly resorts in Norway and Sweden. Both are easily reached from the new Scandinavian Mountains Airport. Snow is almost guaranteed into spring, and you’ll find a wide range of quiet, well-maintained slopes, excellent ski schools and a great choice of places to stay offering ski-in/ski-out convenience.
Join our newsletter to be the first to hear of new holidays and offers
Instagram
Facebook
YouTube