snow

resh snowfall hit Italy’s Alpine resort of Livigno less than a month before the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, where freestyle skiing and snowboarding events will be held, after officials raised concerns over reliance on artificial snow.

Derbyshire’s Peak District offers one of the UK’s most spectacular winter walks, with this 517m summit near Castleton village providing panoramic views across snow-covered countryside

As snow blankets Derbyshire and frosty temperatures settle in, many are seeking ways to soak up the magical winter atmosphere, and this particular walk could be just the ticket.

Year-round, visitors flock from far and wide to tackle the ascent of Mam Tor, regardless of the weather. However, there’s something particularly enchanting about the trail during winter months, as its sweeping vistas allow you to witness the entire Derbyshire landscape draped in a delicate layer of snow. The peak is affectionately dubbed the ‘Mother Hill’, rising majestically to 517m and providing sweeping views across the surrounding countryside. What makes the walk particularly appealing is the variety of routes on offer, ranging in difficulty, with most beginning in the picturesque nearby village of Castleton.

One walker shared their thoughts on TripAdvisor, noting: “This short walk offers an excellent chance to see unrivalled 360° panoramic views of the Peak District… It does not take long to complete the walk; we were there and back in 30 minutes. Quite a steep gradient to get to the top, but this is mainly on stone steps, so walking up is very safe. Once at the top, the views are spectacular and worth the effort to get there.”

Among the most favoured routes is the full circular walk, typically beginning from the National Trust car park at Mam Nick and continuing all the way to the summit. Walkers can traverse the ridge of the imposing hill and enjoy breathtaking views throughout their entire ascent.

Following the trek, one hiker described the vistas as nothing short of “breathtaking”. They did note, however, that most of the path is uphill, demanding a moderately challenging effort, though walkers are treated to glimpses of cattle and sheep grazing in the surrounding fields.

Another visitor shared: “I’ve been to Mam Tor on a number of occasions, and it’s one of the best hikes for me. The views are stunning, and there are routes for all types of walkers. Parking is easy to find, and it’s always a great experience to get out and get some fresh air. I’d definitely recommend getting out there if you can.”

During the winter months, walkers can anticipate stunning snow-blanketed scenery, especially along the Great Ridge. However, it’s wise to verify conditions beforehand, as ice and frost can make the terrain treacherous and necessitate proper winter hiking equipment.

Nestled conveniently at the foot of the hill lies the picturesque village of Castleton, brimming with pubs and cafés ideal for refuelling before or after a day’s ramble. For the perfect warm retreat, ramblers often pop in for a pint at establishments such as Ye Olde Nags Head, The George, The Bulls Head and the Old Club House.

ALMOST 200 flights have been cancelled and delayed across the UK today as seven weather warnings remain in place.

A total of 41 flights have been grounded today as a result of the snow and ice, with a further 152 routes experiencing delays.

Nine major airports across the UK have grounded flights due to the current weather conditions.

On Monday, Liverpool John Lennon Airport was forced to close due to a snow-covered runway.

While the Liverpool Airport has since re-opened, cancellations and disruptions continue to plague passengers across the UK after temperatures plummeted as low as minus 12.5C overnight.

Yesterday’s severe weather also led to cancellations and disruptions to flights out of Scotland and Northern Ireland.

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Scots airline Loganair cancelled two flights from Aberdeen, with routes to Kirkwall and Norwich scrapped as an amber warning was issued for heavy snow across north-east and northern Scotland until 7pm.

Meanwhile, air passengers across England are also experiencing disruptions, with London Heathrow currently experiencing departure delays an average of 39 minutes.

The airport has also topped today’s list of cancellations at eight, with a further 87 delays, according to FlightAware.

Aberdeen and London City follow with six cancellations each, and five and two flight delays respectively.

And its not just outbound flights that have been affected, with Edinburgh reporting arrival delays for airborne aircraft at an average of 28 minutes.

These wait times are expected to increase as the Arctic Blast continues into the evening.

Anyone planning to travel is advised to check with their flight’s status with their airline before heading to the airport.

With certain areas of England hit with heavy snow, disruptions have not been limited to air travel.

Rail passengers are also experiencing chaos as National Rail confirmed that disruptions are expected on the Wirral and Northern line services, as well as to trains across Scotland.

Meanwhile, Aberdeen – Dundee railway has partially reopened following closure yesterday due to heavy snow.

Those travelling between Edinburgh and Aberdeen have been issued a “Do Not Travel” warning until at least 2pm today.

The Glasgow subway was also closed this morning due to harsh weather conditions.

Select rail services across England have also been suspended due to snow, with passengers advised to verify their route is still operating before arriving at their station.

And motorists can also expect delays as breakdown companies including the AA and RAC are experiencing high demand.

A spokesman for the Met Office said milder temperatures are expected towards the end of the week, though further snow is possible on Sunday as the warmer air meets cold air.

Jetting off on a winter getaway is a desire many people have and travellers have been urged to give specific packing methods a try to help them potentially save hundreds of pounds

People jetting off abroad this January have been urged to be careful when it comes to packing, or risk having to pay a costly baggage charge at the airport. Frigid temperatures, icy weather, and persistent snowfall in some parts of the country have got many people fantasising about a winter getaway.

Those lucky enough to be going on holiday this winter have to be careful when it comes to their clothing, though – especially items used to ward off the January chill. According to a spokesperson from Ski Vertigo, bulky winter items are one of the biggest causes of unexpected baggage fees during January travel.

They say this is because travellers often pack heavy coats and footwear without realising how quickly weight limits are exceeded. Airlines charge for bags that go over set size and weight limits – and fees can add up fast.

Baggage charges vary depending on the airline, flight route and more. Typically, there’ll be higher fees for checked bags, with overweight bags typically incurring charges of between £12 and £25, or sometimes more, per extra kilogram beyond the designated allowance.

It’s best to always check your specific airline’s policy before flying to avoid any unwanted surprises at the airport.

A spokesperson from Ski Vertigo said: “Excess baggage charges can reach well over £100 per flight, with some airlines charging per kilo once limits are passed. For families or return journeys, costs can quickly reach £200 or more.”

In a bid to avoid this, experts recommend wearing the bulkiest items during your outbound journey. Thick or long coats, chunky jumpers and heavy boots take up a lot of space in suitcases and can quickly weigh it down. Ski Vertigo advises wearing these items through the airport in order to free up room in your luggage and avoid weight issues at check-in.

Once you’re through security, you’ll be able to remove those outer layers to make the journey more manageable while still taking advantage of the extra space in your bag. The pros also recommend stuffing accessories like gloves, socks, and scarves inside packed shoes, as empty boots and trainers can take up excessive space and, when empty, that space is often wasted.

This can be useful on winter trips, where these items are necessary, yet may be forgotten until the last minute. Adding them to shoes in checked bags ensures they’re readily available – and they can provide an added layer of protection for your shoes.

Ski Vertigo said limiting coats to one versatile option is also “key”. Many people pack multiple coats “just in case”, only to wear one throughout the trip. A single insulated, waterproof coat works for airports, city breaks, and winter destinations, reducing both bulk and weight.

The spokesperson added that January travellers often underestimate how strict baggage checks can be. Despite winter travel requiring heavier clothing, airline limits remain the same all year round. Many passengers are stuck having to pay excess fees at the airport after packing bulky items like ski jackets and boots into their bags.

One person took to Reddit and asked: “So let’s assume you are only allowed 23 kg per suitcase, but you have more. How much tolerance leeway do you have and what does it depend on? What are your experiences with excess baggage and goodwill/room for manoeuvre?”

In response, one person simply said: “It depends on the agent so my advice is… I wouldn’t risk it but you can if you want to invite hassle and annoy people around you.”

Another added: “Most airports I have been to they will charge you for being over the limit at all. It’s a limit for a reason. Plan on being slightly under the limit unless you want to plan to argue with the staff. Seems rude though.”

This island offers the perfect winter escape with average temperatures of 20C in January – and it’s just a four-hour flight from London

As murmurs of snow and icy conditions intensify, and the January weather settles in, it’s hardly surprising that many are dreaming of escaping to warmer climes – minus the peak-season throngs.

Those blessed with sufficient funds and holiday allowance might contemplate Cancun, but there’s a secret paradise much nearer that can be reached for a fraction of the price: an island hailed as the “Hawaii of Europe”, merely a four-hour journey from London (which is due to crash down to -3C this week).

Positioned 500km from Africa’s shores and 450km north of the Canary Islands, Madeira is renowned as Cristiano Ronaldo’s homeland – not, bewilderingly, the English sponge cake bearing the same moniker. The Portuguese island chain comprises four territories: Madeira, Porto Santo, the Desertas, and the Selvagens.

It serves as a perfect winter retreat, offering average temperatures as high as 23C on the warmest January days. The Met Office reports that the archipelago typically basks in six hours of daily sunshine throughout winter. Nevertheless, weather patterns differ considerably across mountainous areas, influenced by elevation. Even during quieter months, the heavily populated isle can still appear bustling, particularly following its social media fame as a breathtaking oceanic sanctuary competing with tropical paradises.

“If you’re looking for winter sun, you won’t have much trouble finding it in Madeira in January. Daytime temperatures can be 20°C in the south below what’s called the ‘banana line’, the best place for cultivating the fruit. Yet look at the mountaintops from Funchal, and you may well see snow glittering in the sunlight. Madeirans take their first sea swims of the year, but you might want to wait a few months,” explains Responsible Travel.

Even during the quieter months, the heavily populated island can still seem busy, particularly following its social media fame as a breathtaking oceanic retreat competing with tropical hotspots, according to the Express.

As a delightful perk, Madeira operates on the UK’s timezone, meaning you won’t squander valuable time off wrestling with jet lag.

Madeira, the main island, is bursting with attractions and adventures crammed into its compact area, ideal for those seeking more than simply lounging in the sun and making their friends back home envious. Must-see experiences include trekking up Pico Ruivo, wandering through the lush gardens at Monte Palace, and visiting local wineries to discover the area’s fascinating wine-making heritage.

The island’s famous Madeira wine found its way to England during the 1800s and was traditionally served alongside lemon and almond-flavoured madeira cake – remarkably giving the dessert its name despite having no other link.

According to Visit Madeira, Ponta do Sol boasts the island’s highest annual sunshine hours. It’s described as a “place much appreciated by those seeking to enjoy sunny days on the beach or in contact with some idyllic spots in nature”.

For culture enthusiasts, Ponta do Sol Beach is unbeatable during their visit. Boasting excellent water quality and a charming setting, this compact 160-metre stretch is ideal for tranquillity seekers. Meanwhile, Madalena do Mar Beach sits nestled near dramatic rocky cliffs and is adored by swimmers. Visit Madeira explains: “This bathing resort is a combination of pebbles and black sand. It is bathed by crystal-clear waters with mild temperatures all year round, and low swell.”

In terms of how long to stay, Lonely Planet’s Austin Bush suggests: “Because Madeira’s highlights are found at all over the island, you shouldn’t plan a stay of under four days. Consider a night in Funchal to get oriented, then supplement this with stops in one or two more destinations elsewhere on the island. Dedicate a day to active pursuits, followed ideally by a day to recover on the beach. Tack on at least another two nights if you plan to hit Porto Santo, the other inhabited island that forms part of the Madeiran archipelago.”

Direct flights to Madeira operate from numerous major UK airports, including Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Bristol and Gatwick. From northern England, the journey to Madeira takes roughly four hours, compared to approximately 19 hours to reach Hawaii – which has no direct connections from the UK. Right now, there are flights from Bristol for £17, Manchester for £24 and Birmingham for £32 this January.

The city has cosy cabins, scenic walks and the chance to explore connected islands.

If you’re on the hunt for a snug winter weekend escape, the UK offers an abundance of options. With so many stunning locations to choose from, it can be quite the task to decide.

From vibrant cities to ancient woodlands and charming villages, the UK is brimming with beautiful spots. However, one location has been singled out as the ideal winter retreat.

The team at Go Outdoors have recently unveiled their top choices for a winter escapade, and the favourite is a delightful blend of urban and rural attractions that cater to all tastes.

Using data on snowfall, woodland walks, cosy pubs with log fires, and cabins, they’ve ranked the top UK adventure destinations – and the Scottish city of Inverness has emerged as the champion.

Boasting over 200 winter cabins and a wealth of breathtaking walking trails, it’s not hard to see why Inverness clinched the top spot.

One of the most favoured walks is the Inverness Castle and River Circular, which guides you on a stunning 4.5km journey through some of Scotland’s most majestic landscapes, reports the Express.

During your hour-and-a-half stroll, you’ll also pass by the iconic Inverness Castle, nestled in the city centre.

Inverness even provides the opportunity for island hopping – without ever having to leave the city.

The Ness Islands are a chain of islands in the river, all interconnected by beautiful Victorian-era footbridges.

You can start on one side of the riverbank and end up on the other, meandering through the islands and spotting sculptures along the way. It’s the perfect way to spend a wintry day exploring.

Though Inverness is a small city that’s easy to navigate, it also serves as an excellent base for exploring the wider Highlands.

Just beyond the city limits, you’ll find the renowned Loch Ness, home to its elusive, legendary creature – perhaps you’ll be the lucky one to spot her.

Growing up just outside Melbourne, Australia, Scotty James was more likely to spot the Loch Ness Monster or Big Foot as he was to spot snow. For him, the Winter Olympics seemed about as accessible as Mars.

“It is very unique, being an Australian in winter sports,” he said. “We’re very few and far between.”

Unique, but not impossible. Because if he qualifies for February’s Milano-Cortina Olympics, as expected, James will become the first Australian man to represent the country in five separate Winter Olympics. If he reaches the podium in the men’s halfpipe, his specialty, he will become the most decorated winter Olympian in Australian history with three medals.

Yet it almost didn’t happen. If his father Phil, a passionate snowboarder, hadn’t talked a Vancouver ski-shop worker into selling 3-year-old Scotty a miniature display board during a family vacation to Canada decades ago, James still might be watching the Winter Olympics on TV.

“My parents were always making sure that I realized how fortunate I was to be doing what I was doing,” said the 31-year-old James, a four-time world champion and the most successful halfpipe rider in history. “And incredibly supportive through all of it, through the challenges and through the most recent great moments.”

But James, whose fortunate if still unfolding life story is told in the film “Scotty James: Pipe Dream,” which will be available on Netflix beginning Friday, won’t be the only accidental Olympian in competing in Italy. The Summer Games feature running, jumping, swimming and throwing, activities that can be done mostly anywhere, but many of the disciplines in the Winter Games — skiing, figure skating, luge and snowboarding, for example — require ice and snow, which are unavailable to about two-thirds of the world’s population.

That’s why more than 10,000 athletes from more than 200 countries competed in the 2024 Summer Games in Paris and fewer than 3,000 representing about 90 nations will participate in Italy.

“Africa, big parts of southeast Asia, South America, many of those countries don’t have a heritage of winter sports,” said Gene Sykes, president and chair of the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic Committee. “Given that there’s a limitation that all the sports have to conducted on snow or ice, we have to be creative.”

Among the creative ideas that have been discussed is adding events such as cross-country running, cycling and indoor sports that could be practiced anywhere to the Winter Olympics calendar, which would make the Games more universal.

In the meantime, athletes such as alpine skier Richardson Viano of Haiti and figure skater Donovan Carrillo of Mexico will be curiosities in Milan, having followed paths that were arduous, complicated and completely out of the ordinary.

James fits that description as well, having lived much of his life abroad, traveling to the U.S., Canada and the Nordic countries in search of mountains, snow and competition. That’s a hardship unknown to Winter Olympic athletes from Europe and North American.

“You know, 80% of the time I wasn’t really in Australia,” said James, who started competing in snowboard at the age of 6 and began traveling to events at 10. “I was always overseas. My mom would organize some tutors in different countries and then I would do some online stuff with my school back in Australia.”

There is snow in parts of Australia, but since the country is in the southern hemisphere, the winters there are short and they come during what is summer in the northern climes. So to stay fit and to compete in major events, James had to live on a Northern Hemisphere calendar, meaning he was overseas from October to May almost every year.

“It was a real task,” he said, “to get it all done.”

It was expensive, too, though it proved a wise investment since he progressed quickly, turning pro at 14 and making the Australian Olympic team at 15, becoming the country’s youngest male Olympian in 50 years and the youngest male competitor in the Vancouver Games in 2010.

Yet on the eve of those Games, James was ready to pass all that up.

“I didn’t love it anymore,” he said. “I would go home and cry to my mom all the time. I wanted to quit. I ended up in this spiral that made me want to go home and just have a normal life and go to school and be with my friends.”

It didn’t help that James broke his right wrist in practice before the Olympics. But he recovered from the injury and the lack of confidence to place 21st; four years later, while still a teenager, he won the first of four World Cup titles in the halfpipe and ranked No. 1 in the world.

At 23 he was chosen to carry the Australian flag in the opening ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics in South Korea, where he won a bronze medal.

Scotty James carried the flag of Australia’s team during the opening ceremony of the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea.

(Julie Jacobson / Associated Press)

“It’s one of the biggest honors, being an Olympic athlete, to walk your team into the opening ceremony,” he said. “The first time I ever watched the Olympics, I remember watching the opening ceremony and I believe one of the basketballers walked the team in. And I just remember being like ‘wow, that must be just a special thing to do.’

“Little did I know it was potentially on the radar for me. That’s a moment that lives rent-free in my head, that’s for sure.”

But if James had to leave Australia to become an Olympian, back home his exploits have made enough of a celebrity that he’s often recognized on the streets of Melbourne or Sydney.

“They remember for sure, which is really cool,” said the still-boyish James. “I always am chuffed when people come up and recognize me or have followed my career. It never gets old.”

Neither, it seems, does James, who turns 32 in July but isn’t ready to call his fifth Olympics his final one just yet.

“I don’t have a timeline. I don’t give myself an end date,” he said. “Every day when I wake up I think about how I can be better at snowboarding and what I can do to make myself better. So I really haven’t thought about that at all.”

But James, who is raising 14-month-old son Leo with his wife, Chloe Stroll, a Canadian singer-songwriter and daughter of Aston Martin chairman Lawrence Stroll, has begun preparing for a life beyond the slopes. In the last two years he’s released two illustrated children’s books featuring MOOKi, James alter-ego who has adopted the snowboarder’s childhood nickname and his insistence on always dreaming big.

He’s also an investor and brand advisor for MSP Sports Capital, which purchased the X Games — James is a seven-time X Games gold medalist — in 2022, kicking off his move from snow moguls to business mogul. There’s also the Netflix film, directed by Emmy-winning filmmaker Patrick Dimon, which will spread his legend and legacy even further.

“Typically athletes kind of close the door on their athletic journey and then they start to invest in their sport. But I want to do it right now,” he said. “I can really add value to a business like X Games because I’m still competing. I can speak to the athletes and I can give really good feedback about where it can get better.”

However, the contribution he’d really like to leave involves creating an environment that would allow the next generation of Australian Winter Olympians to learn and grow in their sports without having to leave their homes. James did that by building Australia’s only 13-foot mini halfpipe for kids in the Snowy Mountains of New South Wales, where he trains when he’s in Australia. That’s a project he’d like to expand.

“I would love to leave a mark in some sense of hopefully opening up the door and creating some access [for] freestyle sport in Australia,” James said. “Specifically in the winter, to see if we can produce some really great talent in the future.”

If it began to sound a lot like Christmas earlier than usual this year, it wasn’t your imagination.

Halloween wasn’t even over before Spotify users began curating songs about mistletoe, snow and presents under the tree.

Holiday playlists created on Spotify in the U.S. jumped 60% in October over last year, the Swedish audio company said. Some Spotify users started crafting holiday playlists as early as summer.

“It’s a combination of wanting to feel good and nostalgia, and these are testing times,” said Talia Kraines, editorial lead for pop at Spotify. “Somehow Christmas music brings comfort and I think that’s a real part of it.”

Indeed, eight of the top 10 songs on Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for the week that ended Saturday were Christmas songs, with the top five being familiar holiday classics, including Mariah Carey’s 1994 hit “All I Want for Christmas Is You,” Brenda Lee’s 1958 recording of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” and Wham!’s “Last Christmas,” released in 1984.

On-demand streams for holiday music in the U.S. increased 27% to 8.3 billion this year, compared to a year ago, according to L.A.-based data firm Luminate.

The popularity of music streaming has helped to fuel a surge in users seeking out more holiday music, and earlier in the year.

The change has been driven by technology. In the pre-streaming era, consumers would play Christmas music through CDs and, records or catch tunes on the radio during the winter months.

But the rise of Spotify, Apple Music and other streaming services opened the floodgates by offering large libraries of songs on demand.

The new platforms created and marketed holiday playlists, making it easier for consumers to discover seasonal songs and add new ones to their own song collections.

“You used to have a bunch of Christmas albums around and rotate them through as you’re decorating the house or wrapping the presents,” said Dave Bakula, vice president of analytics and data insights at Iconic Artists Group. “The availability of all the music, all the time is such an incredible gift that streaming services have given us.”

For musicians and record labels, holiday music also has taken on growing importance.

Vince Szydlowski, executive vice president of commerce at Universal Music Enterprises, the centralized global catalog division of Universal Music Group, said he starts planning the year’s campaign for holiday music in January.

“For UMG and many of the artists that you associate with holiday music, it will be the most important time of the year, without a doubt,” Szydlowski said. “In some cases, especially with certain legendary artists, it could make or break their year.”

Artist Brenda Lee performs at the “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” concert at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Museum in Nashville in 2015.

(Laura Roberts / Invision / AP)

One campaign Universal Music Enterprises worked on was promoting Elton John’s 1973 holiday song “Step into Christmas.” The song was featured in Amazon Prime Video’s holiday movie “Oh. What. Fun,” starring Michelle Pfeiffer.

John posted viral social media videos with the song playing in the background that drew more than 100 million views.

Those efforts helped boost the track’s consumption by 44% this year compared to last year, according to Universal Music Group, citing data from Luminate.

“It’s a very comprehensive campaign in which to continue to boost that track visibility among the holiday perennials,” Szydlowski said.

Many of the popular Christmas songs in the U.S. date back decades, making it challenging for new, original holiday songs to break through.

Mariah Carey’s “All I Want For Christmas Is You” has been the longest-running number one song in Billboard Hot 100 history at 21 weeks, according to Billboard.

The holidays are an important time for older artists like Brenda Lee, whose rendition of “Rockin’ Around the Christmas Tree” remains a winter hit.

In November 2023, Lee’s version of the song topped Billboard’s Hot 100 chart for the first time, 65 years after the song’s debut, making Lee, then 79, the oldest woman to top the Hot 100, according to UMG.

Then there are artists like the late Nat King Cole, known for hits like the holiday classic “The Christmas Song,” and Dean Martin, who died in 1995 and whose rendition of “Let It Snow! Let It Snow! Let It Snow!” is especially popular during winter months.

Nat King Cole in 1963. “The Christmas Song” became one of his enduring hits.

(Capitol Records Archives)

Another source of appeal for Christmas music is that it‘s timeless.

It isn’t really affected by trends and the songs highlight themes like love, hope, joy and family that remind us of our friends, family and past Christmases, said Jimmy Edwards, president of Iconic Artists Group.

“It’s the one music that you can share it together from any age. As Nat would say, from one to 92, right?” Edwards said, referencing a lyric from Cole’s “The Christmas Song.” “Those emotional bonds you have with that music stay with you forever … It promotes the best of us and all the good things. That’s why people love it so much.”

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Nothing but dirt and dry, brown chaparral rolled beneath skis and snowboards dangling from a chairlift at Big Bear Mountain Resort on Friday, as forlorn adventure seekers joked they should rename the place “Big Bare.”

Unseasonably high temperatures even left the impressive array of high-tech artificial-snow makers below mostly useless, their fans spinning idly in the warm breeze.

“The word I’ve been using is “abysmal,” said Cameron Miniutti, 29, who was riding the lift in a light cotton shirt, with the hot sun glinting off his ski goggles. “This is, for sure, the toughest start [to a season] I’ve seen.”

Similarly bleak panoramas can be found at ski areas across the American West so far this year, but especially in California, where a wet November gave way to one of the driest Decembers in recent memory.

People visit Big Bear Village on Sunday, with no snow in sight.

As of Friday, the state had only 12% of the snow that’s normal for this time of year, and only 3% of what water managers hope for in an average year, according to the California Department of Water Resources.

Which is why water managers — and skiers — are hoping for a Christmas miracle as an enormous atmospheric river takes aim at California this week. The soaking rains may threaten coastal cities with flash floods and nightmarish traffic, but they promise sweet relief for snow-starved thrill seekers from Lake Tahoe to the San Bernardino Mountains in Southern California.

Mammoth Mountain, the tallest commercial ski resort in California, could get up to 7 feet of snow this week, according to On the Snow, a website that tracks conditions at ski areas.

Resorts on the north end of Lake Tahoe could see up to 5 feet, and even Big Bear could get 3 feet, assuming the temperature stays below freezing, according to the website.

That’s important to everyone, even nonskiers, because roughly a third of the water California relies on each year for drinking, farming and fighting wildfires accumulates as snow in the mountains during the winter and then gradually melts through the spring and summer, when the state can otherwise be bone dry.

Many California ski areas were forced to delay opening this year, and even those that got the lifts spinning have had to confine skiers to only a handful of runs, often on man-made snow.

That has been this case at Big Bear, where a thin strip of artificial snow snakes from the 8,440 top of the Bear Mountain Express chairlift to the base at just over 7,000 feet. While crews worked diligently to rake the fake snow over exposed rocks and patches of bare dirt on Friday, skiers and boarders scraped by like traffic on the 405 Freeway.

“It’s crazy,” Miniutti said, “I mean, I can’t even imagine what this is like on a weekend.”

And the range of abilities of people crammed onto the same run creates its own, unique kind of “obstacle course,” Miniutti said.

You have to concentrate on not crashing into people in front of you — many of whom are absolute beginners, tumbling to the snow for no apparent reason — while praying the very good skiers and snowboarders you can hear racing up behind you will somehow avoid mowing you down.

People ski and snowboard at Big Bear Mountain Resort on man-made snow on Sunday.

“There’s, like, the best snowboarders in the world and people on their first day right next to each other,” Miniutti said.

But under the circumstances, Miniutti had nothing but admiration for the mountain staff for keeping the run open despite the seemingly impossible weather.

“I’m still having a blast,” he said, “it’s absolutely worth coming up.”

Devon James, 24, from Pasadena, felt the same way. He was warm in long sleeves, which he took to wearing after wiping out in short sleeves a week ago and “getting cut up.”

One day lift tickets at Big Bear cost more than $150 this season. At fancier resorts, like Mammoth Mountain, they can easily climb to more than $200 per day. So most serious skiers buy season passes for just under $1,000 that are good at many mountains across the country and around the world.

But that means they feel compelled to get their days in, no matter the conditions.

“I mean, that’s kind of the whole game, right,” James laughed. “I’ve got to get at least eight or nine days to get back to even.”

Skiers and snowboarders navigate bare areas at Big Bear Mountain Resort.

Miniutti, who is originally from Massachusetts, and learned to snowboard on the freezing, icy hills of New England, still prefers the alpine experience on the West Coast.

Even when there are legitimate winter conditions at Big Bear, he loves hopping in his car at the end of the day and driving home to Los Angeles, where it’s seemingly always 70 degrees and sunny.

“I can’t really beat that,” he said, “I’m not complaining.”

Concerns over snow levels for the skiing events at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy have been raised by the president of the International Ski Federation (FIS).

Johan Eliasch highlighted issues with the production of artificial snow, which he said was down to delays with the Italian government releasing funds to organisers.

Livigno Snow Park and Aerials and Moguls Park will be key venues during February’s Winter Olympics.

Livigno mayor Remo Galli has responded to the concerns, stating that the delays were caused by a technical problem.

“We’ll have all the snow we need to have a great Olympics. In fact, we’ll have much more,” Galli told Italian news agency Ansa.

“It was necessary to replace a valve, but it was done within the timeframe, and all the snow guns have been operating for a few evenings.

“We’re doing well, for Livigno and for Italy. And in the next few days, temperatures will drop further, even to 20 below zero, so I’m not at all worried.”

WHEN there’s no snow anywhere else, there’s still a bit of powder in Obertauern.

This tiny Alpine town has more snow than anywhere else in Austria, and its season lasts from November until May.

So it’s no wonder when The Beatles were looking for a snow-sure location to film scenes for their 1965 movie Help! they opted for the once-unknown village 56 miles from Salzburg.

Body doubles were hired to perform the band’s action shots on skis — and Paul McCartney’s stand-in still lives here today.

This year marks the 60th year since the filming took place — transforming a previously quiet mountain village into the centre of pop culture for a few unforgettable days.

The global attention sparked by the Fab Four’s visit marked a turning point for Obertauern.

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Beatles fans still make pilgrimages to the village, and scattered throughout the village are three monuments to commemorate the band.

And if, like The Beatles, you aren’t much of a skier, you can still catch a gondola to the peaks to enjoy the restaurants, with deckchairs overlooking the mountains.

But, of course, Obertauern is all about the snow, which reaches a maximum depth of 8½ft.

In the evenings, I’d watch snowfall from the cosy window seat in my room at Kesselspitze Chalet & Hotel, on the edge of town.

It fell so heavily I couldn’t see beyond it — not lights in the windows of nearby buildings, nor the mountains behind. It was everything a winter wonderland should be.

I hadn’t skied for a while, so I booked beginners lessons, and it is true what they say about teachers — the good ones make a massive difference. Mine made it look a doddle.

I may have stuck to safety on the nursery slopes while I practised my turns, but my classmates got the hang of it in no time.

Leg massage

It meant they could graduate to tougher challenges on the blue, red and black routes, including the Gamsleiten 2 — a scary 45- degree ski-run.

Back in town, the Eurobeat was booming in the apres-ski bars.

Still in full gear with skis parked against railings, people downed beers, wine and cocktails while they stomped to the beat.

A pint of beer costs an average of €6 while a glass of good Austrian wine is around €4.30.

If you’re not partying or skiing, there are shops to browse, plus restaurants and cafes to enjoy.

A highlight of the trip for me, however, was the hotel and its facilities.

The 4*+ Kesselspitze is one of three in the town owned by Croatia-based Valamar.

It is everything I expected from an Alpine hotel: Lots of wood, stone and rich colours, with a real fire in the bar, while the decor in my room was luxurious yet homely.

The food, a combination of help-yourself buffet and a la carte, was amazing, and there was so much of it that I always felt well-fuelled before and after hitting the slopes.

I loved the hotel’s Balance Spa. Tired and aching, I recuperated in the sauna, steam room and Finnish sauna (much hotter) and booked in for a leg massage to soothe my throbbing calves.

There’s something spectacular about relaxing in an outdoor Jacuzzi while it is snowing — the heat of the bubbles clashing with the cold, and the mountains right in front of you.

It is the perfect way to soak away any aches and pains, ready for another day on the slopes.

Netflix’s Man vs Baby has been a hit with viewers and they can’t get enough of the picturesque village at the beginning of the series.

Man vs Baby, featuring Rowan Atkinson reprising his role as Trevor Bingley, has become a massive hit on Netflix. The festive comedy is a four-part sequel to Man vs Bee, and it sees Trevor taking up a new position as a school caretaker. Following his separation from his wife, Trevor leads a simple, somewhat solitary life in a quaint rural cottage that still relies on a coin meter for electricity. He was looking forward to his daughter’s Christmas visit, but a change of plans left him alone.

After a string of unexpected events, Trevor ends up house-sitting a luxury penthouse in London, where most of the story unfolds. However, viewers have been captivated by the idyllic village featured at the start of the series, which is currently topping the Netflix charts, and are eager to know its location.

The opening scenes of this Christmas comedy were shot in the charming village of Aldbury in Dacorum, Hertfordshire. Dacorum Borough Council proudly shared a snapshot of the film crew on their Facebook page, delighted to see their picturesque locale gaining recognition.

They explained: “The production, which includes Rowan Atkinson among its cast, brought a festive transformation to Aldbury last winter, complete with snow-covered streets, Christmas trees, and seasonal decorations. Working under the production code name St James, Aldbury Parish Council supported the Netflix team throughout the process, with local residents and businesses helping to ensure smooth filming.”

“Hertfordshire Film Office also assisted with traffic management. Many community members had the opportunity to observe filming, with several external scenes shot around the village. Thank you to everyone involved in supporting another production in Dacorum.”

The picturesque village of Aldbury, home to fewer than a thousand residents, centres around Aldbury Village Store. Viewers are also treated to glimpses of the village pond, the historic manor cottage, and the Greyhound Inn’s exterior, the beloved local pub.

The scenes depicting St Aldwyn’s Church of England Primary School were actually filmed at Longfield Hall, a Victorian community venue dating back to 1904 in Camberwell, South London. For the railway station sequence, whilst Tring Station was nearest, its contemporary appearance meant producers opted for Ongar railway station in Essex instead.

Enjoy Dacorum portrays Aldbury as a “pretty, traditional English village with a church, village pond, ancient whipping post and stocks and two pubs”. Thanks to its quintessentially charming character, the village has become a sought-after filming destination for major productions including Midsomer Murders and the second Bridget Jones film.

The 2023 film Lord of Misrule also featured scenes shot in Aldbury, with the Parish Council publishing a touching note from the production crew on their website. They said: “It has been an enormous privilege for us to shoot our movie in such a beautiful, characterful setting and I think we’ll all take a little piece of Hertfordshire away in our hearts as we leave.”

Actor Atkinson reflected on how the concept of a solitary Christmas formed the foundation of the series, explaining: “I certainly like Christmas, like most people. I was quite drawn to the idea of, without wishing to spoil the plot of Man Versus Baby, a lonely Christmas.

“Other than having the baby for company, Trevor’s alone because his daughter has booked a last-minute holiday to Barbados. He’s flat-sitting at Christmas without any of his family around him, and that can be hard.

“When we first see him, he’s got all these presents wrapped by a tiny tree decorated with Heroes wrappers, and he’s looking forward to it, and then he gets abandoned by his family, which is quite sad.”

The series has garnered glowing reviews from both viewers and critics, who have praised it as ideal family viewing. The Mr Bean star explained: “As long as people enjoy what I’ve put a lot of effort into producing, I’m happy. I’ve worked on this show every day of my life for the last year and a quarter, at the very least. I definitely put in the hours.

“I’m someone who does that. I don’t just turn up to act the role: I’m part of the writing and very much part of the post-production, so I’m in every sound mix and visual effects meeting. I’m there from the bitter beginning to the bitter end and so it’s a big commitment. If all of that effort ends up in something good that people like, that’s all you can hope for.”

Man vs Baby is available to stream on Netflix.

From walking around in -32 degrees, eating Reindeer pizza, to having just a few hours of daylight – here’s what it’s really like to work in Lapland over Christmas

Lapland is one of the most enchanting and Christmassy places in the world during this time of year, with its snow-dusted forests and roaming reindeer. Yet, imagine if the Arctic wilderness was the backdrop to your working day? And we’re not talking about being Santa Claus.

Saul Vendrig Castillo compares his office to a ‘real-life snow globe’ as he spends the most wonderful time of the year in Lapland, Finland, as a TUI representative. His job is to help create unforgettable moments for families who visit the magical winter wonderland, and it certainly comes with its perks.

“Every day I’m surrounded by snow, excitement and pure joy. Kids step off the plane with their mouths open in amazement, and you can feel the Christmas magic in the air. It’s like working inside a real-life snow globe!”, Saul said.

“Lapland is one of the only places on earth you can experience the magic of gliding through snowy forests, wrapped up warm, with a majestic reindeer leading the way. It’s peaceful, magical and gives you time to soak up the Lapland winter wonderland.”

Yet, it can come with its challenges as he revealed: “In December, we get just over two hours of daylight, which means at 4pm, it can feel like bedtime.” However, that hasn’t stopped Saul from making the most of the local delicacies, including one that some might frown upon.

“Reindeer pizza is amazing, and much better than I expected! I can also highly recommend a liquorice cake with blueberry ice cream that I ordered a few days in a row, as it was so good,” said Saul.

His job in Lapland can range from greeting families at the airport, helping them with their snowsuits and boots, to organising thrilling outdoor excursions such as husky sleigh rides, reindeer safaris or snowmobiling.

“The children get to ride in sledges pulled by a team of energetic huskies. The sound of their paws on the snow and the speed of the sledge make it an unforgettable adventure. Everyone leaves smiling and talking about it for days,” he explained.

But he confessed that the most rewarding part of his job is seeing the smiles on the children’s faces when they meet Santa. “When families visit Santa, it’s really special,” he shared.

“The children get to meet him in his cosy, twinkling cabin, tell him what they’ve been wishing for, and even receive a little gift to take home. The excitement in their eyes is priceless, and it’s magical for the parents to see too.”

Saul added: “When a child sees their first reindeer or throws their first snowball, that’s the moment you realise how special this job is. Then you take them to meet the Big Man, and their faces light up in a way you never forget. Parents often tell me this is the Christmas they always dreamed of giving their kids, so it’s really special to be a part of that experience.”

Currently in Lapland for his second season with TUI, Saul has picked up a few handy tips for those looking to visit the enchanting destination. He advised: “Make sure you bring lots of loose layers to wear under your snow suit as they trap the heat, whereas tight clothes can make you colder fast. And once you feel the chill, it’s hard to get rid of it, some days it can get to –32 degrees.”

He added that because Lapland only gets just over two hours of daylight in December, it’s best to “plan your activities with this in mind to really maximise those daylight hours”.

Additionally, Saul suggested: “For many people visiting Lapland, their bucket list goal is to see the Northern Lights, and my one piece of advice is to always be patient with them. They can be unpredictable, but they really are a sight to behold when they appear in the evening.”

During the summer season, Saul works as a TUI rep in various countries, including Greece, the Costa del Sol, and Mallorca. Yet, there’s something about Lapland, “The snow, the lights, the magic, the excited families always pull you back. There’s nowhere else like it,” he said.

If you’re interested in soaking up the festive merriment or planning a winter getaway for next year, TUI offers various packages to Lapland, departing from regional airports across the UK. The packages typically include flights, snowsuits, activities and transfers, and of course, the chance to meet Santa and witness the Northern Lights.

Do you have a travel story to share? Email webtravel@reachplc.com

North Macedonia is a little-known country that sits north of Greece – and it’s one of the most mountainous countries in the world, with stunning views and a rich history

A hidden gem nestled in stunning mountains lies just three hours from the United Kingdom. Boasting emerald-green peaks and snow-capped summits, North Macedonia presents travellers with an opportunity to explore territory largely untouched by mainstream tourism.

Positioned directly north of Greece, North Macedonia is steeped in rich heritage spanning Byzantine, Ottoman, and Yugoslav periods. This landlocked nation achieved independence from Yugoslavia in 1991, adopting the name North Macedonia in 2019 after resolving a lengthy naming row with Greece.

It ranks among the world’s most mountainous countries, with over 85 per cent of its territory dominated by peaks, reports the Express. Mount Korab, situated on the Albanian frontier, soars to 9,030 feet (2,752 metres). The rugged landscape has become integral to daily life for North Macedonia’s inhabitants.

“When I enter my car, whichever direction I want to drive, I have a mountain in front of me and a mountain behind me,” local resident Frosina Pandurska-Dramikjanin told CNN.

The entire country houses 2 million people, marginally fewer than Birmingham’s population. Whilst those in the tourism sector believe the nation has tremendous potential, they remain cautious about excessive visitor numbers.

Aleksandar Bogoevski, owner of Sustainable Adventure Travels, added: “Approximately one million passengers are transiting Macedonia during the summertime. They don’t stop, I think there are so many other things that can be seen.”

One of the country’s star attractions is Lake Ohrid, which spans the Albanian border. The North Macedonian portion of the lake earned UNESCO World Heritage status in 1979, with the surrounding region added the following year.

Ohrid town ranks among the globe’s most ancient human settlements and houses the oldest Slavic monastery, St Pantelejmon. According to UNESCO, the lake supports roughly 200 plant and animal species.

The Šar Mountain range, positioned along the northwestern Albanian frontier, provides North Macedonia’s visitors with countless walking and hiking opportunities.

Mountain villagers still practise age-old shepherding traditions known as transhumance. This ancient custom involves guiding sheep on seasonal journeys to villages during winter months before returning them to mountain peaks come summer.

Food enthusiasts exploring North Macedonia will encounter a delicious blend of Balkan, Mediterranean, and Turkish flavours.

The country’s signature dish, Tave grave, features mainly baked beans prepared in a clay vessel. Other beloved meals showcase fresh ingredients, barbecued meats, and pastries.

Skopje, the nation’s capital, houses approximately 526,000 residents and lies within the Skopje Valley beside the Vardar River.

YouTuber Drew Binksy branded Skopje amongst the “weirdest cities in the world” due to its dramatic riverside monuments. During his trip to North Macedonia, Drew was completely charmed by Lake Ohrid.

In a video he gushed: “Anyways, the coolest lake in Europe is called Ohrid. It’s a really clear freshwater lake.

“You can go diving in it, cliff jumping and just have a day on the water. It’s really, really awesome. That’s my favorite thing about [North] Macedonia by far.

“Overall, it’s just a really chill, cool, small country, easy to road trip, Balkan vibes, good food. I highly recommend North Macedonia. I actually think it’s super underrated and it’s one of my favorite Balkan countries.”

A direct flight between the UK and Skopje takes between three and three-and-a-half hours.

In the winter, you can enjoy the seafront paths without the crowds, and enjoy views of snow-capped mountains on the coldest days.

A coastal path in Wales has been hailed as the UK’s top Christmas walk, thanks to its breathtaking mountain vistas and close proximity to snug pubs. The ranking, compiled by GO Outdoors, utilised TripAdvisor reviews and data on average December snowfall, along with festive factors such as nearby watering holes.

Using this information, the outdoor retailer curated a list of the top ten spots for a brisk December amble or a post-Christmas dinner saunter. Barmouth Beach, nestled on the fringes of Eyri National Park (Snowdonia), clinched the number one position. The area is enveloped by natural splendour, offering panoramic views across Cardigan Bay and the Mawddach Estuary.

During the summer months, this sandy expanse has a classic seaside atmosphere. A land train chugs along the promenade, children enjoy donkey rides on the sand, and the shallow waters are perfect for a paddle.

However, winter also presents an ideal opportunity for exploration, allowing visitors to savour the seafront paths without the throngs of people and admire views of snow-dusted mountains on the chilliest days, reports the Express.

While a tranquil stroll along the promenade is always an option, there’s also a more demanding route for those wishing to soak up some of the surrounding landscape.

The four-mile-long Panorama Walk commences at the beach and meanders through dense woodland and winding country lanes along the Mawddach Estuary.

However, it’s recommended for seasoned walkers, as it can be hilly and tricky to navigate, particularly in cold, damp conditions.

After exploring the coast, venture inland to find a cosy pub for some warmth. Just 500 metres from the beach, The Royal is a traditional stone-clad pub that’s a welcome sight after a chilly walk.

Settle into a leather chair and soak up the old-world charm while sipping on a pint and savouring classic pub grub, from roasts to a Welsh cheeseboard.

If you’d rather warm up with a hot brew, Davy Jones Locker is worth a visit. This harbourside café serves everything from hearty breakfasts to fish and chips.

Enjoy the sunshine at an outdoor table or head inside to appreciate the quirky, nautical-themed décor.

Although it only operates seasonally, usually from April to October, consider booking a ticket on the ferry departing from Barmouth Harbour. At just £4 per adult, it offers breathtaking views of the Afon Mawddach estuary.

The ferry also links with Fairbourne Railway, a vintage train service running along the mid-Wales coast.

Passengers can take in the coastal scenery as they journey along, with day passes available for those who wish to hop on and off at their leisure.

Stroll into town to discover a handful of independent shops, alongside numerous hotels and restaurants in the centre.

If you’re planning a festive getaway, The Sandbanks Hotel is a great choice, boasting direct beach access, rooms with sea views, and Christmas-themed entertainment.