By the MOOK Scenic Spots Family Travel Life Network Editorial Team
Winter is the most enchanting season for ice activities. Beyond skiing, ice skating around the world is equally captivating. And it becomes even more appealing when you can glide across the ice while admiring foreign landscapes or classical architecture. During this time, whether it’s Lake Louise in Banff, Canada, Vienna in Austria, Red Square in Moscow, Ottawa in Canada, New York City in the United States, or Somerset House in London, UK, all can fulfill your dreams of skating amid stunning foreign scenery.
Skaters looking to hit the ice this winter should check out the world’s most beautiful ice rinks for a spin!(Image source / from http://cdn.theatlantic.com/)
Banff Town, Canada
The snow-capped mountain peaks and the serene, picturesque Lake Louise surrounded by them are often seen on Canadian postcards. Skating on the frozen lake surface while braving the crisp winter winds and taking in the views of the surrounding mountains is truly an unforgettable experience. (Image source / from http://www.canadiannaturephotographer.com/)
Vienna, Austria
Austria’s annual winter event “Vienna Ice Dream” will kick off at 7 PM on January 23, 2014. Not only can you enjoy the thrill of ice skating at the pair of rinks in front of Vienna City Hall, but you can also indulge in delicious Austrian food and drinks from the surrounding stalls, immersing yourself in a uniquely exotic winter atmosphere. (Image source / from http://cdn.theatlantic.com/)
Moscow, Russia
During winter, Red Square in Moscow is adorned with elaborate and gorgeous Christmas lights. Visiting during this time allows you to admire the dazzling festive illuminations while strolling between iconic structures such as St. Basil’s Cathedral, the Kremlin, and the State Historical Museum on the elliptical square in front of the Kremlin. (Image source / from http://www.gum.ru/)
Ottawa, Canada
The Rideau Canal is the oldest continuously operated canal in North America. Its rich historical heritage and economic significance led to its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007. The bike paths and pedestrian walkways along the canal are popular spots for locals to stroll. When winter arrives and the canal freezes over, it transforms into the world’s longest skating rink!(Image source / from http://oldermommystillyummy.com/)
New York, USA
The Rockefeller Center area spans from Fifth Avenue to Sixth Avenue, between 48th and 51st Streets, covering a total of 22 acres. The district includes restaurants, office buildings, fashion stores, banks, post offices, bookstores, and more. The most iconic Rockefeller Center skating scene from movies can be experienced firsthand when visiting during the winter months. (Image source / from http://www.timeout.com/)
London, UK
During winter, Somerset House not only lets you skate joyfully in front of an 18th-century classical building, immersing yourself in the romantic ambiance of a British winter, but it also features live DJ performances and offers tastings of champagne and hot chocolate. (Image source / from http://www.derbyhotels.com/)
● Extended Reading:
Climb the World’s Most Beautiful “Staircase” and Experience the Imagination of Foreign Architecture
http://goo.gl/BsDIbe