Take a look at these Winter homes, where you get guaranteed snow in winter and the smell of fresh pines all year

Cantabria, Spain
Spain’s north-west corner is a hidden gem for lovers of the great outdoors, where forested hillsides form dramatic backdrops to unspoilt sandy bays. The climate is cooler and wetter than the southern costas, which puts some foreign buyers off, but if you’re after a rustic, mountain lifestyle you will love the area. This four-bedroom stone cottage near Polientes oozes authentic, Cantabrian charm. Set in fantastic natural scenery, it’s close to the Monta Hijedo forest and not far from the enchanting Picos de Europa mountain range. For more info, click on the image.

The Alps, France
Look outside France’s busy, purpose-built ski resorts and you’ll stumble across more traditional properties tucked away on a mountainside, like this one in a hamlet near St-Gervais-les-Bains, Haute-Savoie. A restored farmhouse, it is currently split into two apartments, with a total of four bedrooms. It could be converted back into a large five-bedroom chalet, or even run as a B&B. Can you think of anywhere better for tucking into a festive fondue?

Salzburg, Austria 
Built in true ‘Sound of Music’ style, this three-bedroom wooden chalet is part of a residential tourist park with access to the Dachstein-West ski area in the Lammertal area. On-site facilities include an indoor pool, spa and wellness area and a bar/restaurant. If those are a few of your favourite things, click on the link for more info. Salzburg is just 50 kilometres away.

Graubünden, Switzerland 
Utterly rustic on the outside, this three-bedroom chalet in Savognin, Graubünden, might be more than 100 years old but it has been completely overhauled inside to create a luxury home with all mod cons from which to enjoy the astounding views. It is on a panoramic walking trail in the centre of Savognin’s ski and hiking area. The property is close to the Somtgant ski station in the hamlet of Plaz Fravesch, and its altitude of 1,838 metres guarantees fantastic snow right through the season.

Kranjska Gora, Slovenia
Nestled in a village just two minutes from Slovenia’s largest ski resort, Kranjska Gora, is this pretty four/five-bedroom chalet home. It’s built over three floors and boasts gorgeous mountain views. Could you see yourself spending Christmas here next year?

More info
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