The Best Destinations for Ice Skating Holidays

There’s something wonderfully magical about gliding across ice, with crisp air nibbling your cheeks and a scenery that takes your breath away. If you’re dreaming of a break where winter wonder meets holiday bliss, then an ice skating holiday is the perfect escape. Whether you’re a seasoned skater, a couple looking for a romantic spin, or a family craving a new kind of winter adventure, this type of trip offers a dynamic, joyful rhythm. And it’s not just about the ice—it’s about cosy lodges, hot drinks by the fire, and memories that last a lifetime.

In this blog post we’ll explore five top-destinations where you can plan your next ice skating holiday, each offering a unique vibe and experience. After each destination I’ll recommend a standout hotel to stay in (and you can ask us at Jamie Wake Travel to tailor the offer). We’ll also discuss the booking protections you need, why these trips are so compelling, and finish with why Jamie Wake Travel is the ideal partner for your adventure. Don’t forget: share this post if you spot a destination that makes you want to lace-up and go!

If you’re inspired by glistening lakes and wintry scenery, you’ll love exploring our guide to snowy escapes full of charm and adventure, featuring destinations perfect for both skiers and skaters.

What makes an Ice Skating holiday special?

Before we dive into destinations, let’s just pause to consider what we mean by an ice skating holiday. It’s more than simply visiting a rink for an evening—it’s planning a break around the activity, usually in a destination where the setting (frozen lakes, scenic winter towns, city-rinks under lights) complements the skating.

Typical elements include:

• Beautiful outdoor rinks or natural ice surfaces.
• Scenic winter landscapes (snowy forests, frozen lakes, alpine backdrops).
• A sense of movement and freedom—you’re not just sitting on a beach, you’re gliding.
• Value-added elements: local culture, spa or après-skate comforts, cosy hotels.
  Also, many of these trips are at their most magical when booked with someone who understands winter leisure travel, knows local conditions, and has the protections in place (which we’ll cover later). With that foundation, let’s travel.

The Magic of Natural Ice vs. City Rinks

There’s a world of difference between skating under fairy lights in a city square and gliding across a frozen lake surrounded by pine forest.

Natural ice offers freedom and connection with nature – perfect for those who crave open space and adventure. These holidays usually happen in northern destinations such as Sweden or Finland, where lakes freeze deeply and local guides maintain safe routes.

City rinks, on the other hand, bring skating into the heart of culture – think Vienna’s Rathausplatz or London’s Somerset House. You can pair your sessions with sightseeing, dining, or Christmas markets, making them ideal for shorter breaks.

Whichever style you choose, ice skating holidays promise one thing in common: pure winter joy.

Swedish Lake Country – Sweden

One of the most adventurous options for an ice skating holiday is heading to the frozen lakes of Sweden. In fact one commentator wrote: “ice skating on natural ice is a very special way to experience the winter.” 

Why it stands out

• You’ll often skate on natural ice (not just man-made rink) in serene, remote surroundings. In Sweden you may find tracks cleared on lakes, clear “core” ice (“kärnis”) and open views of winter wilderness.
• Because conditions vary, there’s a sense of adventure: the destination can adapt based on the best ice days.
• Ideal for skaters who want more than a city rink—they want wide open spaces and the wild.

When & how to go

Typically these stay best in Jan–March when lakes freeze. You’ll need appropriate gear and guidance for natural ice. For those less experienced, guided tours help.

Hotel suggestion

Hotel Jarvisydän, Finnish Lakeland (okay, this is Finland rather than Sweden but gives flavour of this type of stay) is a wonderful example of what to look for: wood and stone décor, lake-spa views, and relaxing after your ice time. 

For Sweden, look for hotels near Arlanda or near the lake systems where groups gather (there are tours that start from the airport area).

After your stay you can ask us at Jamie Wake Travel to explore tailored Swedish lake ice-skate offers.

Ideal for

Active couples or families who like an outdoorsy feel, want something different, maybe combine with wood-fired sauna, snowshoeing or winter wildlife.

Finnish Lakeland – Finland

For a more structured yet still wild ice skating holiday, the Finnish Lakeland region is hard to beat.

Why it works

• The lakes of Finland freeze and form “webs” of frozen waterways across which you can skate—creating a unique setting. 
• The accommodation often pairs luxury with wilderness: spa facilities, wood cabins, large windows over icy vistas.
• You get a “holiday” feel (hotel, spa, meals) while still getting the winter-adventure element of skating.

Sample stay & tip

The example tour mentions a 4-night stay including sessions of guided skating across the lake system, equipment hire, spa access and transfers. 

Tip: ask for lodging with a lake view, book skate hire in advance, check the route difficulty if you’re less confident on skates.

Hotel suggestion

Hotel Jarvisydän (in Finnish Lakeland) is exactly this type of stay: modern but natural, spa by the lake, built into rocks. Already cited above. Good benchmark.

Explore Finnish Lakeland ice-skate holiday offers with Jamie Wake Travel for bespoke options.

Ideal for

Those looking for a mid-range winter break: comfortable hotel stay, winter sports vibe, natural setting—but not fully wilderness. Families, groups, couples equally suited.

For travellers who love variety, you can pair your skating trip with dog sledding adventures in the Arctic Circle, turning your holiday into a true Nordic experience.

Switzerland – Alpine Lake & Scenic Rinks

Switzerland often comes to mind for skiing—but it’s also a premier location for an ice skating holiday, especially on frozen lakes such as Lac de Joux.

What makes it special

• Lac de Joux is quoted in travel lists as one of Europe’s most scenic ice-skating spots when the lake is frozen over. 
• With Alps all around, the visual impact is spectacular: snowy banks, clear ice, mountains in view.
• The infrastructure in Switzerland is excellent: good hotels, transport, winter activities extra for all levels.

Considerations & tips

• Check ice-conditions seasonally—natural freezing varies.
• Choose a hotel with easy lake access and good spa/relax facilities for après-skating.
• If you’re staying in a resort, you can combine skating with skiing or winter walking.

Hotel suggestion

Look for resorts around the Jura region (where Lac de Joux lies) or lakeside hotels with winter amenities. We can explore specific names when you decide.

Jamie Wake Travel can source tailored Switzerland ice skating holiday deals with your preferred hotel category.

Ideal for

Romantic couples, honeymooners, those wanting a premium winter break with an ice-skating twist. Also for travellers who might combine with other winter sports.

Vienna & Central Europe – City Ice Skating Holiday

If you prefer a winter break where you can skate and enjoy city life, culture, food and festive lights, then a city-based ice skating holiday is a great option. One standout example: Rathausplatz in Vienna.

Why it’s appealing

• According to travel blogs, Vienna’s ice-skating rinks in winter deliver a mix of charm, lights, gastronomy and movement. 
• The setting: skating in the heart of a city, easy hotel access, warm cafés when you stop for a break, culture after your skate.
• Good for mixed-ability groups: you may have novice skaters wanting a fun experience, others wanting to explore the city.

Hotel suggestion

Choose a central hotel in Vienna with easy access to the rink and other winter attractions. Maybe one with a winter package (skate hire included). Jamie Wake Travel can check availability for you.

Ideal for

Friends or families wanting a winter city break, couples wanting a romantic vibe, travellers who like skating but also shopping, dining and walking around. Also relatively easy from the UK in terms of travel time.

While classic skating spots like Switzerland and Canada take the spotlight, some underrated winter destinations across Europe offer equally magical ice trails without the crowds.

Canada – Iconic Natural Ice & Big Scenery

Lastly, for those who want a real sense of scale and natural beauty, Canada offers an extraordinary ice skating holiday—particularly around natural lakes in winter.

Why this is a memorable pick

• Travel blogs highlight destinations such as Lake Louise in Banff National Park and other frozen lakes as stunning skating venues.
• Vast space, mountain backdrops, wide-open ice surfaces. It’s adventure with splendour.
• A chance to combine skating with wildlife, national-park scenery and wide-open winter air.

Travel & logistics

• Travel from the UK will involve longer flight time and possible transfers; good to factor this in.
• Choose accommodation in the national-park area or nearby resort for best experience.
• Be sure to check ice conditions, wildlife safety (if you're heading into remote areas) and weather.

Hotel suggestion

Look for a resort in the Banff/Lake Louise area or similarly scenic region, with winter-sports capability and comfortable amenities. Jamie Wake Travel can filter by your preferred standard and budget.

Ideal for

Adventurous couples or families, winter-sports fans, anyone wanting a “wow” natural experience that goes beyond the ordinary ice rink.

Getting There: Best Ways to Reach Each Destination

Most ice skating holiday destinations are easily accessible from the UK with short or medium-haul flights.

• Sweden & Finland: Regular flights from London, Manchester, and Edinburgh to Stockholm, Helsinki, or Kuopio; guided tours often start near these hubs.
• Switzerland: Excellent air and rail links via Geneva or Zurich; many resorts just 1–2 hours by train.
• Vienna: Direct flights from several UK airports in under 2.5 hours.
• Canada: Fly into Calgary for Banff and Lake Louise; winter routes via Air Canada or British Airways make it easy.

Our team at Jamie Wake Travel can coordinate transfers, equipment allowances, and timing to ensure smooth connections.

Jamie Says:

“There’s something genuinely special about seeing the world through winter’s lens.
Ice skating holidays bring together movement, laughter, and scenery in a way few other breaks can. Whether you’re tracing long glides across a frozen lake in Scandinavia or circling beneath Vienna’s twinkling lights, the feeling of freedom is unforgettable.


My advice? Don’t over-plan every moment. Let yourself glide into the rhythm of winter—you might find it’s the most liberating travel experience of all.”

What to Pack for an Ice Skating Holiday

Skating trips call for a mix of warmth, flexibility, and comfort. You’ll spend time both outdoors and indoors, so layers are key.

Essentials include:

• Waterproof insulated jacket and trousers
• Base layers (merino wool or thermal synthetics)
• Gloves and hat (thin enough for movement)
• Scarf or neck gaiter
• Spare socks – always pack extras!
• Travel-friendly skate guards if bringing your own skates
• Small backpack for water and snacks on natural-ice trails
• Lip balm and moisturiser – cold air can be harsh

If you’re visiting guided destinations like Sweden or Finland, safety gear such as ice claws, a throw line, and a small backpack with flotation support are sometimes included – but always check in advance.

How to Stay Safe on the Ice

Safety should always come first – especially on natural ice. Local guides constantly check ice thickness, but a few good habits make your trip worry-free:

• Follow marked routes and local signage.
• Never skate alone on natural ice; always go in pairs or groups.
• Carry a phone in a waterproof pouch.
• Check weather forecasts each morning – thawing can happen fast.
• Wear a lightweight backpack (with air space) for buoyancy.

Guided tours in Nordic countries supply all safety equipment and briefings, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience.

Booking Protections & Travel Peace-of-Mind

When planning your ice skating holiday, especially in winter destinations, it’s essential to factor in protections and practicalities. Here's what to look for:

• ATOL protection – As we at Jamie Wake Travel are ATOL-licensed, your flight and holiday package are financially protected.
• Supplier Failure Insurance – This covers non-flight elements (hotels, transfers) which is especially important in remote winter locations.
• Clear cancellation & refund terms – Winter weather, ice conditions, lake freeze-over schedules can vary. Make sure your booking is flexible or has clear terms.
• Travel insurance with winter-sports cover – If you’re heading to natural ice or remote regions, ensure your insurance covers skating, potential medical, evacuation if needed.
• Local conditions & guide inclusion – For natural ice destinations, a knowledgeable guide, safety briefing and appropriate equipment are key (see Sweden example). Nature Travels
• Equipment hire or check – Some destinations require longer-blade “trip skating” skates (Sweden example) or you need to bring your own. Good to check before you go.

At Jamie Wake Travel we always ask: “Are all these elements in place?” so you can relax, skate and enjoy without worry.

Best for Families, Couples & Adventurers

For families: Choose city-based rinks or lakes with short trails and nearby hotels. Vienna, Lucerne, or Finland’s Saimaa region work brilliantly.

For couples: Look to Switzerland’s mountain lakes or Canada’s Banff – serene settings and luxury lodges make for romantic evenings.

For adventurers: Sweden’s natural-ice tours deliver adrenaline and isolation. Imagine skating miles across frozen wilderness under a pastel Arctic sky.

For couples looking to add a touch of romance to their trip, many skating destinations double as perfect backdrops for romantic winter honeymoons.

Whatever your travel style, Jamie Wake Travel can match the right destination and hotel to your dream holiday.

If you’re drawn to active travel, discover other winter adventure holidays like ice climbing and snowshoeing — perfect complements to your ice skating getaway.

Why Choose Jamie Wake Travel for Your Ice Skating Holiday?

We live and breathe travel, we specialise in bespoke holidays and we know winter breaks well. When you book your ice skating holiday with us:

• You benefit from expert advice on destinations, best timing, hotel selection and skating conditions.
• You're protected by ATOL licensing and supplier failure insurance.
• We tailor your holiday as unique as you are—tell us your needs, we’ll craft the package, whether you want romantic, family, wilderness, luxury, city-skating.
• We handle logistics, transfers, local knowledge and make sure you’re set up for the best experience.
• You have a trusted point of contact: call us on 01495 400005 or use our enquiry form to start the conversation.

Don’t just book a holiday — plan an adventure where ice, scenery and winter charm combine. Reach out today at Jamie Wake Travel, and let’s design your perfect ice skating holiday.

Frequently Asked Questions: Ice Skating Holidays