The best places to go this winter

By Paul Rubio

December 04, 2017, 2:56:01 PM EST

Whether you're looking to escape or embrace the cold, here are six best destinations to visit this winter.

Chile

(Photo/Getty)

Why we love it: Though Chilean Patagonia is no longer a savvy traveler’s secret, Chile’s many other riches—lava-spewing, snow-capped volcanoes; salt-rimmed, painted deserts; century-old vineyards in the shadows of the Andes Mountains—remain largely untouched by the masses.

As the Southern Hemisphere moves into summer, explore the diversity of this long and narrow country through local outfitter Upscape, specialists in exposing travelers to Chile’s less-trodden paths. Don't miss wine tastings and overnights at family vineyards in the Colchagua Valley; explorations of active volcanoes, glacial lakes, and the farm-to-table restaurants of the south at new, experiential Relais & Chateaux member Hotel Vira Vira; and hikes through the Atacama Desert’s Valle de la Luna, a moonlike canyon encased by billions of salt crystals and mounds of ground salt (this is just one of more than thirty complimentary excursions available to guests of Alto Atacama Desert Lodge & Spa).

Jackson, Wyoming

(Photo/Getty)

Why we love it: A picture-perfect resort town, Jackson is what winter dreams are made of. And thanks to new non-stop service from Houston, Seattle/Tacoma, and JFK, this wonderland is more accessible than ever.

Revel in world-class downhill skiing—with slopes suitable for beginners, experts, and mid-level skiers—plus plenty of après-ski fun. If you love the snow but skiing isn’t your thing, try your hand at other winter pursuits like snowshoeing, ice-skating, dogsledding, sleigh rides, or even heli-skiing. Head out on a winter wildlife safari through Grand Teton National Park and Yellowstone National Park, snapping images of elk and buffalo. Retreat to the lap of luxury at the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole in Teton Village and enjoy the best of the après-ski scene at The Handle Bar, a high-end twist on pub fare and drinks by celebrity Chef Michael Mina. If traveling with the entire family or a large group, considering opting for a villa through The Clear Creek Group, which has exclusive agreements with several of the area’s most beautiful homes.

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