Love snowfall? 7 countries to visit this winter for snowy landscapes, mountain views and winter adventures

If you love watching snow fall and exploring snow-covered landscapes, winter is the perfect time to plan a getaway. From Japan's famous powder snow and Switzerland's Alpine scenery to Finland's Arctic wilderness, several countries offer opportunities to experience the season. Here are seven destinations to consider for a winter holiday, with places to explore and activities to enjoy

If you love snow, Japan offers plenty of places to explore during winter. You can head to Hokkaido to experience snowy landscapes, visit Niseko for skiing and snowboarding, or discover the traditional village of Shirakawa-go. You can also enjoy a relaxing soak in a hot spring surrounded by winter scenery. January and February are popular months for snow experiences.

Switzerland offers snow-covered Alpine villages, mountain scenery and winter sports. You can visit Zermatt for views of the Matterhorn, explore the Jungfrau region or head to St. Moritz for skiing and snowboarding. If you prefer sightseeing, you can take scenic train journeys through the mountains and explore picturesque towns surrounded by snow.

Finland is an option if you want to experience snowy forests, frozen lakes and Arctic landscapes. You can explore Rovaniemi, visit the ski resort of Levi or head to Saariselkä for winter activities. Try snowshoeing, enjoy a husky ride or look for the northern lights when conditions are suitable. Snowfall varies by location and date.

Norway offers a mix of snowy mountains, Arctic scenery and dramatic fjords. You can visit Tromsø for winter excursions, explore the Lofoten Islands or discover snow-covered landscapes in the country's northern regions. Depending on where you go, you can try skiing, dog sledding and snowshoeing. You may also get an opportunity to see the northern lights.

Canada offers a range of winter experiences, from snow-covered mountains to frozen lakes and forests. You can explore Banff and Lake Louise for spectacular mountain scenery or head to Whistler for skiing and snowboarding. You can also enjoy winter walks, try snow-based activities and explore towns surrounded by snow. Conditions vary across the country.

Austria is a destination for snowy mountain scenery, Alpine villages and winter sports. You can explore Innsbruck, enjoy the mountain views around Zell am See or head to Kitzbühel for skiing. If you prefer a slower holiday, you can explore historic towns, enjoy winter walks and take in the surrounding landscapes. Snowfall varies by region and altitude.

Iceland offers a winter landscape of glaciers, mountains, waterfalls and volcanic terrain. You can explore Reykjavík, take a trip along the south coast or join a guided excursion to a glacier or ice cave when conditions allow. Winter also offers opportunities to look for the northern lights. Check weather forecasts and road conditions before travelling.