Getaway for a Christmas to remember

With the Christmas season looming, you might have enough to think about without making plans for next year. But just in case you feel that you’ve missed out on festive cheer in this year’s run up, we’ve put together some ideas that are definitely worth considering for 2017 to top up your Christmas spirit.


Christmas markets have become a must⁠-⁠visit for festive fare and quirky gifts in recent years, but their popularity means that it can be worth booking early to secure the best deals on Eurostar and flights as well as to reserve the most popular hotels. Being retired means that you can avoid the high cost of travel in school holidays, so you should be able to cherry pick the lowest prices for your trip and make your pension go further.

Cologne, Munich & Berlin are three of Germany’s top destinations for markets. Their glittering stalls are loaded with handmade gifts and ornaments, grilled sausages, spiced cider and local beers, so you’ll be immersed into the festive spirit from the moment you arrive. And with Berlin alone offering over 60 markets, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Lille in France is also renowned for its beautiful market and the giant ferris wheel in Place Rhiour town square is eye catching. Artworks and wooden toys are the things to look out for here, and when it comes to refuelling, try the local baked Camembert with a glass of Champagne. Belgium, Switzerland and Denmark are also worth checking out for Christmas markets that aren’t too far from home. If you’re thinking of travelling with your family, you could consider Finnish Lapland to share the excitement and magic with your grandchildren as they meet Father Christmas and his elves.

If you’re looking for a break that takes you right through the festive season, you may be surprised at the wide range of options. Specialist travel companies offer getaways for those travelling solo, as well as adults only trips and holidays for the over fifties market, if you prefer to spend your time with like⁠-⁠minded people.

So whether you fancy Christmas dinner with all the trimmings at a UK country hotel, a river or ocean cruise or holiday in Spain, there are a wealth of choices out there. Skiing and walking holidays are also a popular choice for those looking for an action packed winter break. Or if you’d rather leave Christmas traditions behind you could treat yourself to a long⁠-⁠haul holiday in the Caribbean or Cuba, complete with spa treatments and sailing trips.

So whatever your definition of a perfect Christmas break is – from traditional market to long haul holiday – you’re sure to find a getaway that’s geared up to creating your Christmas to remember.