If your idea of a perfect trip includes snow-capped peaks, crisp mountain air, and views that need to be seen to be believed, it’s time to commit to the idea of booking an alpine adventure.
Even if you’re not a natural snow bunny, alpine destinations are year-round playgrounds where you can ski, hike, swim, eat and sip your way through some of the most breathtaking landscapes in the world.
From the iconic peaks of Switzerland and the French Alps to the wild beauty of Patagonia and New Zealand, it may be time to shake up your idea of what your next holiday looks like.
So whether you’re chasing fresh powder, planning a shoulder-season hiking escape, or just looking for that perfect mountain moment, here are the best year-round trips for alpine lovers (and exactly when to go!).
Switzerland
Best months: December–March for snow-globe skiing; June–September for wildflower hikes and lake dips.
If alpine dreams had a poster child, Switzerland would be it. Come winter, the likes of Zermatt and St. Moritz turn into powdery playgrounds straight out of a postcard.
But big tip from us: don’t sleep on summer! This is when the mountains swap ski runs for scenic hiking trails, and you can reward yourself with a lakeside swim and a sunset aperitif with views that feel almost unreal.
Image source: Photo by Leila Azevedo on Unsplash
France
Best months: December–April for ski season; June–September for sunny alpine adventures.
The French Alps know how to do drama, both on and off the slopes. Winter brings world-class skiing in Chamonix and après-ski that’s equal parts chic and indulgent. Summer, meanwhile, is all about paragliding, hiking, and long lunches with mountain views.
Honestly, it’s hard to pick a bad time when there’s always good wine and food involved.
Austria:
Best months: December–March for skiing; May–October for hiking and festivals.
Austria is where alpine charm meets gemütlichkeit (that warm, cozy feeling you didn’t know you needed). Winter is peak ski-and-Fiakergulasch season, with perfectly groomed runs, festive villages and warm, hearty meals to top off a day on the slopes.
In the warmer months, the hills come alive with hikers, cyclists, and a calendar full of music festivals that make those mountain backdrops feel even more magical.
Germany
Best months: December–February for snowy landscapes; May–September for hiking and beer gardens.
Germany’s alpine corner may be smaller, but it packs a punch. In winter, the Bavarian Alps feel straight out of a fairytale. Come summer, it’s all about scenic hikes, cable car views, and unwinding in a beer garden with the Alps as your backdrops. Could life get any better?
Of course, it’s always worthwhile to stick around for Oktoberfest too, like you needed any reason to extend a trip.
Image source: Unsplash
Italy
Best months: December–March for skiing; June–September for hiking, lakes, and la dolce vita.
The Italian Alps (and Dolomites) bring a little extra flair to the alpine scene. Think dramatic peaks, incredible food, and a slower pace that encourages you to linger.
Winter is perfect for skiing with a side of pasta, while summer means epic hikes followed by spritzes by the lake. And affogatos and gelato? They’re all-round treats for us.
Norway
Best months: December–March for northern lights and winter sports; June–August for hiking under the midnight sun.
For alpine lovers who like their mountains a little wilder, Norway delivers. Winter is all about chasing the northern lights and embracing the snow-covered silence. In summer, the sun barely sets, giving you endless hours to hike, kayak, and soak up those jaw-dropping fjord views. It’s remote, rugged, and ridiculously beautiful.
Japan:
Best months: December–February for powder snow; July–October for alpine trekking.
Aussies are already aware of this, but a Japanese winter brings some of the best powder on the planet (hello, Niseko), while summer opens up the Japanese Alps for serene hikes, alpine lakes, and even a climb up Mount Fuji.
Need more convincing? Think ending your active days in an onsen, or heading out for a bowl of delicious ramen, and maybe even karaoke if you’re feeling up to it.
Argentina
Best months: June–September for skiing; November–March for Patagonia trekking.
Flip your seasons and head south! Argentina’s Andes are a whole different vibe. Winter is ski season in places like Bariloche, while summer transforms Patagonia into a hiker’s paradise, with glaciers, turquoise lakes, and winds that will definitely test your hat security… and maybe even your walking stability from time to time!
Canada
Best months: December–March for skiing; June–September for hiking and wildlife spotting.
We don’t need to hype up Canadian winter too much, it’s famous for a reason. Winter is all about world-famous ski resorts like Whistler, where the powder is as good as the views. Plus, if skiing isn’t really your thing, frozen lakes turn into natural ice rinks, you can go dog sledding through snowy forests, and there’s even a chance to spot the Northern Lights!
Don’t underestimate summer though. The national parks come alive with hiking, kayaking and some of the most unreal lakes you’ll ever see in your life. It’s basically prime for roadtrips, with wildlife spotting (think bears, elks and whales off the coast) all around!
New Zealand
Best months: June–September for skiing; December–March for hiking and alpine scenery.
New Zealand proves that alpine adventures aren’t just a Northern Hemisphere thing. Winter brings ski season to the South Island, while summer delivers lush hiking trails, glacier views, and landscapes that look suspiciously like a fantasy film set (because they are). It’s the kind of place where every turn feels cinematic.
Ready to book the trip of a lifetime? Check out Contiki’s last minute deals here.
