Winter getaways
With summer well and truly behind us , we have profiled a handful of offices within our Ray White network who live and work in the ultimate ‘ winter ’ destinations . From cosying up in front of a fire or hitting the slopes for a day of snow action , these ‘ cool ’ spots are not to be missed .
BY NINA CLARKE
BLUE MOUNTAINS , NEW SOUTH WALES
Jessica Ridder Ray White Blackheath
There is nothing like sitting in front of an open fire and reading a book . The mountains are so quiet when it snows - you wake up and feel you are under a blanket , the sound is muffled and the world is beautiful .
while the kids play . It feels like going back in time , it ' s very special . It ' s a photographer ' s dream when snow sits on everything , even for the amateaur , it ' s a joy .
There is so much to do in winter . Snow falls are exciting with snowman building , snow ball fights and toboggan riding down the slopes in the local park and on the golf course . The Winter Magic Festival is an annual event in Katoomba every year and showcases the best of Blue Mountains artistic and creative talent .
It ’ s a uniquely local time when the roads are closed and all the locals are walking around town on foot and chatting in the streets
QUEENSTOWN , NEW ZEALAND
Cameron Reed Ray White Queenstown and Arrowtown
Queenstown and its surroundings are insanely beautiful in winter . Snow-capped mountains against blue skies and the clear lake , create a winter wonderland that ' ll take your breath away . The fresh winter air makes the cold temperatures bearable .
For some local insider tips for the best things to do in Queenstown during winter ; you ' ve got to try heli-skiing or snowboarding for an epic adventure - imagine flying by helicopter to untouched slopes , pure bliss ! If you ' re up for a chill activity , hop on a scenic cruise on Lake Wakatipu , where you can soak in the serene beauty .
Don ' t miss the après-ski scene ! Hit up the cosy bars and restaurants in town for some mouthwatering local grub and to warm up by the cosy fire . Lastly , for a mind-blowing experience , catch a hot air balloon ride at sunrise and witness the winter wonderland from a whole new perspective .
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