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3 Top Lakes to Visit for a Memorable Christmas Vacation

  1. Wilson Reed's Headshot
    Wilson Reed

    Lake Aficianado

Photo by Denise Johnson on Unsplash
Photo by Denise Johnson on Unsplash

As the holiday season approaches, many people start to think about where they would like to spend Christmas. If you’re someone who loves being surrounded by natural beauty and enjoys outdoor activities, a lake vacation might be the perfect way to celebrate the holiday season.

But with so many lakes to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is the best option for your holiday getaway. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing the best lake to visit at Christmas:

Climate

If you’re looking to escape the cold and enjoy some warmer weather during the holiday season, you might want to consider a lake in a more southern or tropical location. On the other hand, if you love the idea of a white Christmas, a lake in a colder climate might be more up your alley.

Activities

The types of activities available can vary greatly depending on the location, climate, and time of year. Here are a few examples of activities that you might enjoy during a Christmas vacation at a lake:

  • Water sports: Depending on the lake, you might be able to enjoy activities like boating, kayaking, or stand-up paddleboarding. Some lakes may also offer water skiing or wakeboarding.

  • Hiking and exploring: Many lakes are surrounded by beautiful natural areas that are perfect for hiking and exploring. You might be able to find trails that offer stunning views of the lake and the surrounding landscape.

  • Winter sports: If you’re visiting a lake during the colder months, you might be able to enjoy activities like skiing, snowboarding, ice skating, or ice fishing.

  • Relaxation: If you’re looking to relax and unwind during your vacation, you might enjoy simply spending time by the lake, taking in the natural beauty and enjoying the peace and quiet.

  • Cultural and historical attractions: Many lakes are located near towns or cities that offer a variety of cultural and historical attractions, such as museums, galleries, and historic sites.

Keep in mind that the availability of these activities will depend on the specific lake you’re visiting, as well as the time of year and the weather. Be sure to research the options in the area and plan your vacation around the activities that interest you the most.

Accommodations

If you plan on staying near the lake for an extended period of time, you’ll want to make sure there are suitable accommodations available. This could be a rental cabin, a hotel, or even a campsite, depending on your preferences. Be sure to research the options in the area and make sure they meet your needs.

  1. Location: You’ll want to make sure that your accommodations are conveniently located near the lake and any other activities you plan on enjoying during your stay. If you’re planning on spending most of your time on the lake, you might want to look for accommodations that are located directly on the water.

  2. Size: Consider how many people will be staying with you and choose accommodations that are suitable for your group size. If you’re traveling with a large group, you might want to look for a rental cabin or house that has enough bedrooms and bathrooms to accommodate everyone.

  3. Amenities: Think about what amenities are important to you and make sure the accommodations you choose offer them. This could include things like a kitchen, a fireplace, or a hot tub.

  4. Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to spend on accommodations and look for options that fit within your budget. Keep in mind that prices may vary depending on the time of year and demand.

Locations

With these factors in mind, here are a few lakes that we recommend considering for a Christmas vacation:

  • Lake Louise, Alberta, Canada: Located in the heart of the Canadian Rocky Mountains, Lake Louise is a stunning destination that offers a variety of outdoor activities, including skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating on the frozen lake. There are also a variety of rental cabins and hotels in the area.

  • Lake Como, Italy: Located in the Lombardy region of Italy, Lake Como is a beautiful and serene destination that offers a more relaxed and luxurious holiday experience. You can enjoy activities like boating and hiking in the surrounding area, as well as indulging in the local cuisine and culture. There are also a variety of villas and hotels in the area that offer stunning views of the lake.

  • Lake Tahoe, California, USA: Located in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, Lake Tahoe is a stunning destination with a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. The area gets plenty of snow during the winter months, making it a great option for a white Christmas. There are also plenty of rental cabins and hotels in the area, so you’ll have plenty of accommodation options.

  • Lake Wakatipu, New Zealand: Located on the South Island of New Zealand, Lake Wakatipu is a stunning destination surrounded by mountains and forests. The area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, and boating, as well as a range of accommodation options, from rental cabins to hotels.

  • Lake Placid, New York, USA: Located in the Adirondack Mountains, Lake Placid is another great option for a winter lake vacation. The area is known for its skiing and snowboarding opportunities, as well as other winter sports like ice skating and ice fishing. There are also a variety of rental cabins and hotels in the area.

  • Lake Lanier, Georgia, USA: If you’re looking for a more southern and milder climate, Lake Lanier might be the perfect option. Located in the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this lake offers plenty of water sports and other outdoor activities. There are also a variety of rental cabins and hotels in the area.

No matter which lake you choose, a Christmas vacation at a beautiful lake is sure to be a memorable and enjoyable experience. So why not consider one of these options for your holiday getaway this year?