Where to go in February

Iceland aurora hunting

Far from being dark, cold and uninviting, winter in Iceland is a magical season. Long nights help maximise your chances of seeing the northern lights – especially if you stay at a lodge or hotel in the countryside far from city light pollution. By joining a small group holiday, you get the added bonus of an expert guide (to help you track down the aurora and learn how to capture it with your camera), plus all the logistics taken care of, from driving to food and accommodation. Almost as mesmerizing as the northern lights, Iceland’s waterfalls become frosted with ice during winter, and the snow contrasts vividly with its volcanic landscapes. Winter activities include whale watching, glacier walking, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing – or you could simply take an invigorating winter stroll along one of Iceland’s black-sand beaches.

Winter escape to Finland

Perfect if you’re dreaming of a log cabin with a crackling open fire, tucked away in the forest, Finnish Lapland offers an authentic Arctic experience during winter. Untainted by light pollution, the northern lights shine brightly here – all you need to do is step outside your cabin and look up. There’s a great choice of properties to choose from. Snuggled into trees above Lake Inari, 350km north of the Arctic Circle, Nellim Wilderness Hotel offers log cabins with private saunas, or Aurora Bubbles for northern lights gazing from the comfort of your bed. Husky sledding, snowshoeing and snowmobiling are all included in our holidays here. The wilderness resort of Iso-Syote has panoramic views across snow-covered fells and forests, while Ranua offers glass igloos or family villas close to an Arctic wildlife park – ideal for a February half term escape with the kids.

Orca watching in Iceland

Large pods of orca patrol the western shores of Iceland during February and early March in search of overwintering shoals of herring. Whale watching boat trips are available from coastal villages along the Snaefellsnes Peninsula, but you can also spot the killer whales from shore as they drive their prey into shallow bays. At this time of year, birdwatchers will also be captivated by the sight of huge rafts of wildfowl – such as eider and harlequin ducks – speckling Iceland’s fjords. Our Orcas and Aurora holidays combine the excitement of seeing orca and the northern lights in an expert-guided short break.

Height of summer in New Zealand

Not only is February one of the warmest months to visit New Zealand, but schools usually return at the beginning of the month so you’ll have more of the sights to yourself. With plenty of sunshine and temperatures reaching highs of around 25ºC, it’s a wonderful time for enjoying the country’s great outdoors. There’s a huge range of activities available, from hiking and mountain biking to sea kayaking and swimming with dolphins. Take in iconic experiences such a cruise on Milford Sound, whale watching in Kaikoura or journey across South Island on the TranzAlpine railway enjoying the warmth of later summer.

Peak time for whale watching in Antarctica

February sees Antarctic waters teeming with a wide range of cetacean species, including humpback, blue, sperm, minke and southern right whale. The receding sea ice not only makes it easier to spot them, but also allows for freer exploration on a small expedition cruise ship. This is a good month to explore south, beyond the Polar Circle. Rapidly growing penguin chicks are beginning to moult as they prepare to take their first dip in the sea, while seals on South Georgia are also gaining weight and confidence.

Valentine’s day in the far north

Take a romantic break in an amazing hotel in Swedish Lapland – there are several unique properties to choose from. The Icehotel is renowned for its intricately sculpted Art Suites – the bed bases are solid ice, covered with a thick mattress and reindeer furs. Snuggle into thermal sleeping bags – a double if you like – and enjoy a fantastic range of activities from snowmobiling to starlit dinners. Our signature Icehotel Break includes one night sleeping on ice and another two in warm accommodation staying in stylish cabins. A few hours’ drive to the south, the Treehotel is home to seven grown-up treehouses. The Mirror Cube is camouflaged by reflective walls, while the Flying Saucer appears to hover in a forest clearing. Activities range from husky sledding to a soak in a wood-fired outdoor bathtub. Down on the river, you can really indulge yourself at the Arctic Bath Hotel. The main building actually floats on the river, it’s circular ‘log-jam’ design concealing saunas, treatment rooms and a central plunge pool.

Take the freighter to paradise

There are cruises. And then there are expedition cruises, which help you reach otherwise inaccessible corners of the world. Few types of travel tingle with a greater sense of anticipation than a small ship voyage to explore uninhabited shores at the edge of a distant ocean.

If you’ve prefer to sizzle rather than shiver, set off on a South Pacific adventure cruise to the secluded Marquesas in French Polynesia. Practically untouched, these breathtaking islands are home to the world’s largest atoll, Rangiroa. Delve into local art and culture, picnic on a coral beach and stargaze from the upper deck of your floating home, the Aranui V. This freighter to paradise is a working vessel that offers a unique cruising experience.