Winter Wonders: 5 Reasons to Keep Travelling in Winter

Winter is a magical season that brings snowflakes, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and a sense of wonderment and awe. Unfortunately, even with the winter serenity, many people tend to shy away from travelling during the colder months, choosing to hibernate until spring, when the mercury begins to rise.

But what if we told you there are plenty of reasons to keep travelling in winter? What if the cold adverse could travel to warmer destinations while the snow lovers enjoy the world-class ski slopes of New Zealand, where the powder is so good it's practically worth singing about?

At Oaks Hotels, Resorts and Suites, winter holidays are the perfect time to embark on a thrilling snow-filled adventure or a far-flung destination with warmer weather. From chasing the sun to taking advantage of off-peak travel deals, we have five compelling reasons to pack your bags and explore new destinations during your winter break.

So, don't let the cold weather hold you back. Join us on an unforgettable winter journey filled with comfort, convenience, and excitement. Whether it's one of our hinterland retreats in Australia, somewhere warmer, or winter holiday destinations like New Zealand with its breathtaking ski slopes or the Barossa Valley in Adelaide, we have a great range of offers, experiences, and locations waiting for you to discover below.

1. Off-Peak Travel Deals

Winter is the perfect opportunity to take advantage of unbeatable off-peak travel deals and holiday offers. Businesses are keen to welcome guests during the quieter season, offering discounted rates and exclusive packages. Keep your eyes peeled for off-peak promotions, and indulge in a luxurious winter getaway with Oaks Hotels!

2. Embrace the Chill 

Experience the magic of winter holidays with crisp air, snow-dusted landscapes, and cozy evenings by the fire. Immerse yourself in frosty destinations, engage in exhilarating winter sports, or simply bask in the tranquillity of a winter wonderland, all while staying in an Oaks Hotel that provides lavish amenities to keep you warm and pampered.

3. Chase the Sun

If escaping the cold is your goal, winter holidays offer the perfect chance to pursue endless sunshine! Venture closer to the equator towards balmy climates to soak up the sun while others shiver back home. Oaks Hotels boasts a variety of properties in sun-drenched destinations, delivering a relaxing and revitalising winter break retreat.

4. Less Crowds (Off the Slopes)

Winter travel means fewer crowds, shorter lines, and ample personal space, paving the way for a more relaxed and intimate holiday experience. Reconnect with yourself, your loved ones, and nature by staying with Oaks Hotel, where the serene ambience and exceptional service make your winter holiday escape extra special.

Keep in mind, though, that ski resorts and snowboarding spots might be bustling with fellow winter enthusiasts.

5. Winter Activities Help Beat the Seasonal Blues

Winter holidays abound with unique activities, from skiing and snowboarding to ice skating and snowshoeing. These invigorating winter break pursuits can help combat seasonal affective disorder and elevate your wandering mood. Make Oaks Hotels your base for exploring and relishing your destination's winter adventures.

Winter Holiday Destinations

From sun-soaked beach days to white Christmases, Oaks Hotels holiday destinations are as diverse as the snowflakes that fall and as plentiful as the grains of sand. With various properties in winter holiday destinations to suit your taste, alongside warmer destinations further north or in another hemisphere, you’ll find something to match your travelling desires.

Cold: Hunter Valley with Oaks Cypress Lakes Resort

Exploring the picturesque wine country that is The Hunter Valley is ideal for winter breaks, with outstanding restaurants, music festivals, local markets, golf, and hot-air balloon flights.

Our Hunter Valley Cypress Lakes Resort accommodation provides a variety of picture-perfect housing alternatives and numerous onsite restaurants and pubs loaded with local wines and spirits for your enjoyment. Premium amenities include a pro golf course and country club, three pools, and two tennis courts, making it ideal for individuals who enjoy activity and adventure.

The all-day admission pass to our associated health and wellness retreat is one of our magnificent Cypress Lakes Resort's primary highlights. You'll discover the ideal area to relax and unwind as you escape the bustle and distractions of daily life and regain your inner well-being within a 5-minute walk from the hotel. 

Warm: Cairns with Oaks Cairns Hotel

Home to spectacular cultural attractions, fantastic eateries, and bustling marketplaces, Cairns is the gateway to far north Queensland. Explore the Daintree Rainforest, stroll along Cairns Esplanade, or dive into the Great Barrier Reef; Cairns has something for everyone.

The centrally located Oaks Cairns Hotel is surrounded by the gorgeous ecosystems of the tropical environment, making it ideal for a coastal getaway. Like the seamless check-in experience at any of our hotels, exploring the tropics is just as easy with a plethora of local tours of the area reefs and beaches, numerous local attractions and a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment opportunities. 

Cold: Adelaide with Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites

Welcome to the South Australian cosmopolitan seaside metropolis. Adelaide is brimming with culture, food, events, and entertainment and is well-known for its many museums, award-winning restaurants, and sporting events. It even gives the Hunter Valley a run for its money with world-renowned wine. Oaks has the ideal choice of serviced apartments in Adelaide for a family vacation, a couple's break, or a work trip.

Adelaide has a lot to offer visitors, whether they are there for business or pleasure. Beautiful day tours to wineries and the Adelaide Zoo are available. Furthermore, Adelaide's nightlife is always buzzing, from special night markets and festivals to local pubs and music - you'll be dancing all night.

From the comfort of Oaks Hotels, Resorts and Suites, enjoy spectacular city views, luxurious pools, and a relaxing spa across our accommodation options. And with Oaks Adelaide Horizons Suites conveniently located on North Terrace in the heart of Adelaide’s CBD, opposite the Adelaide Convention Centre, Sky City Casino, Royal Adelaide Hospital and The Adelaide Oval, you’ll have your pick of the best attractions in town.

Warm: Gold Coast with Oaks Gold Coast Hotel

Who says you can’t hit the beach in winter? The legendary Gold Coast is located on Australia's East Coast, about one hour south of Brisbane, QLD. The Gold Coast is a family favourite, with beaches, clean oceans, retail malls, casinos, and infinite entertainment. Oaks has the ideal Gold Coast holiday accommodation for your next family vacation.

Do you want to be a little more daring? Get in the car and travel to Warner Bros. Movie World for an action-packed day of activities and adventures for the entire family. If you prefer nature, walk or hike through the gorgeous Gold Coast Hinterland.

Our lodgings are in major tourist regions and provide affordable accommodation with all of your favourite homely touches. Each of our Gold Coast hotels has distinct attractions, such as breathtaking views of the ocean, rivers, and surrounding city, magnificent pools, or a soothing onsite spa.

Oaks Gold Coast Hotel is the ideal spot to call home on the Gold Coast. You may stroll or ride the tram, which stops right outside our door, to our beautiful surf beaches, casinos, and Cavill Avenue.

Cold: Queenstown with Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort & Oaks Queenstown Club Suites

Winter in Queenstown, New Zealand, is renowned for its world-class skiing and snowboarding amidst picturesque scenery and soft, fluffy snow. Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort, nestled on the shores of Lake Wakatipu, offers an ideal base for your winter adventure. But for those looking for quick access to the exciting Queenstown region, there’s nothing better than the convenience of a free shuttle departing from Oaks Queenstown Club Suites.

Both resorts provide easy access to popular ski fields, each boasting unique features:

• The Remarkables: offering various terrains for all skill levels and breathtaking mountain views.
• Cardrona: bringing a relaxed atmosphere, extensive terrain parks, and family-friendly facilities.
• Coronet Peak: explore diverse trails and some of the best night skiing experiences in New Zealand.
• Treble Cone: enjoy traversing the largest ski area in the region across long groomed runs, challenging back-country terrain, and stunning vistas.

Choose either Oaks Queenstown Shores Resort or Oaks Queenstown Club Suites for an unforgettable winter holiday, delving into the finest skiing and snowboarding experiences New Zealand has to offer. Beyond winter sports, Queenstown is also a hub for exhilarating summer activities, including bungy jumping off the Kawarau Bridge, canyon swinging above the Shotover River, mountain biking along the Gibbston River Trail, and jet boating with Shotover Jet.

Its central location and proximity to major South Island attractions make Queenstown the ultimate destination for memorable New Zealand holidays throughout the year.

The Cold Never Bothered You Anyway

Winter holidays offer unique experiences, breathtaking destinations, and incredible opportunities to make lasting memories. Whether chasing the sun or embracing the chill, winter holidays hold a special magic that shouldn't be missed. So, don't let the cold hold you back – pack your bags and set off on a winter adventure with Oaks Hotels!

FAQs

Q: Are winter holidays more affordable than summer holidays?
A: Generally, winter holidays can be more affordable due to off-peak deals on accommodations, flights, and attractions. Oaks Hotels often offer seasonal promotions and discounts during winter months. However, prices may vary depending on the destination and popularity of specific winter activities, such as skiing and snowboarding.

Q: What should I pack for a winter holiday?
A: Packing for a winter holiday depends on your destination and planned activities. For cold destinations, pack warm clothing, including thermal layers, a waterproof and insulated jacket, gloves, hats, scarves, and waterproof boots. Pack light clothing, swimwear, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat for warm destinations. Regardless of the destination, it's always a good idea to pack a few versatile and layering pieces.

Q: Can I still enjoy outdoor activities in cold destinations?
A: Absolutely! Winter offers a variety of unique outdoor activities, such as skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, snowshoeing, and winter hiking. Oaks Hotels in cold destinations often provide easy access to these activities, and the hotel staff can help with recommendations and bookings. Just ensure you've dressed appropriately for the weather and follow safety guidelines.

Q: How can I stay safe while travelling during winter?
A: To stay safe during winter travels, be prepared for changing weather conditions, dress appropriately, and familiarise yourself with the local environment. Additionally, pay attention to local weather forecasts and travel advisories, and follow any recommendations provided. Reach out to Oaks Hotels staff for guidance and assistance during your stay.

Q: Do I need to book accommodations and activities in advance for a winter holiday?
A: While generally less crowded during winter, booking accommodations and activities in advance is still good, especially if you plan to visit popular winter destinations or participate in sought-after activities like skiing and snowboarding. Booking in advance with Oaks Hotels will ensure you secure your preferred dates and potentially take advantage of any available promotions.

Q: Are there any health benefits to taking a winter holiday?
A: Winter holidays can help combat seasonal affective disorder, boost your immune system, and improve your mental health by offering a change of scenery and engaging in exciting winter activities. Plus, spending time outdoors in the cold can help increase your metabolism and burn more calories. Staying at an Oaks Hotel during your winter holiday ensures a comfortable and relaxing base to enjoy these health benefits.

Embark on your winter adventure today and experience the magic of a holiday in winter firsthand. Remember, there's no such thing as bad weather, only bad clothing choices. So, dress warmly, embrace the season, and let your winter escapades begin with Oaks Hotels!