For holidaymakers looking to get their heart rates up this winter, new data has revealed the ultimate winter adventure destinations for 2026. A scenic part of Japan claimed the top spot.
Nestled high in Hokkaido's mountains, Niseko has been crowned the best place to chase winter thrills this year. It's easy to see why – the resort town receives 600 inches of snow annually, making it paradise at this time of year.
The rankings were compiled by travel eSIM provider Holafly, who examined 40 popular winter hotspots worldwide, looking at factors including average temperatures, snowfall levels, the variety of activities on offer, and social media buzz.
Coming in second place is the glamorous Swiss resort of St. Moritz, which offers 15 different winter experiences for visitors to enjoy.
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Nestled high in Hokkaido's mountains, Niseko has been crowned the best place to visit in winter
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This legendary destination blends elegance with adventure, featuring everything from the historic Olympia Bob Run to horse racing across its frozen lake. There is also a luxurious wellness spa, offering more relaxation.
Top 10 list of winter adventure destinations for 2026
- Niseko, Japan
- St. Moritz, Switzerland
- Sölden, Austria
- Courchevel, France
- Jackson Hole, United States
- Tignes, France
- Hakuba, Japan
- Whistler, Canada
- Lake Tahoe, United States
- Rovaniemi, Finland
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Taking the bronze medal is Sölden in Austria, which boasts three peaks rising above 3,000 metres and two glaciers. The high-altitude location means skiers and snowboarders can enjoy an extended season stretching from autumn right through to spring.
Whether you are looking in Europe or further afield, there are plenty of options on the list. France claims two spots in the top six, and Japan secures two places in the top seven.
Japan is becoming an increasingly popular option for holidaymakers, with its cities named among the ultimate dream holiday destinations for Britons.
For winter thrills, north America is also well represented, with locations in the United States and Canada making a strong impression.
St. Moritz, Switzerland, ranked highly for a European option
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Sölden has clearly captured the imagination of winter sports fans, with more than 840,000 searches in the past year for skiing at the Austrian resort. Despite its chilly winter temperatures, its reliable snow conditions keep drawing crowds.
Meanwhile, Niseko offers far more than just incredible skiing. Visitors can immerse themselves in Japanese culture while trying activities like snow rafting and snowmobiling across the stunning landscape.
With average winter temperatures hovering around -2°C, the Hokkaido resort provides ideal conditions for those seeking a proper cold-weather escape with plenty of adventure thrown in.
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