Starting a winter journey, especially for those bound by Schengen visa regulations, can present challenges, given the limited visa application slots and the uncertain approval of Schengen visas. These visas, exclusive to Schengen member countries, permit a maximum stay of 90 days within a 180-day period in the Schengen area. However, once this period is utilized, there are 17 other non-Schengen countries worldwide, mainly in Europe, that can be explored with a valid Schengen visa.
Top 5 Non-Schengen Winter Destinations
EasyVisaOnline.com has curated a list of top non-Schengen winter destinations, each offering a plethora of winter activities accessible with a Schengen visa.
Bulgaria: Alpine Bliss in Eastern Europe
Bulgaria, an EU member without Schengen affiliation, boasts renowned ski resorts like Bansko, Borovets, and Pamporovo. Its winter charm extends beyond skiing, offering activities like snowshoeing and ice climbing. The Rila Mountains, especially, provide a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, with the journey from Sofia to primary launch points being a convenient 1.5-hour drive. Bulgaria’s captivating winter allure, witnessed by over 1.7 million tourists in the last season, positions it as an enticing winter destination.
Georgia: Adrenaline-Fueled Adventures
Situated at the crossroads of southeastern Europe and West Asia, Georgia welcomes Schengen visa holders to partake in thrilling winter activities. The Goderdzi Pass in the Ajara region offers catskiing in pristine snow. The village of Bakhmaro, nestled in Guria, provides extreme adventure enthusiasts with skiing, hiking, and breathtaking sunsets at “Sunset Hill.” From snowshoeing tours to exploring landmarks like Gergeti Trinity Church, Georgia’s diverse winter wonderland awaits.
North Macedonia: Snowy Peaks and Healing Springs
With 85% of its territory covered in mountains, North Macedonia, an EU candidate, emerges as a promising winter destination. Mavrovo, one of its largest national parks, hosts a renowned ski resort and thermal mineral water sources celebrated for their healing properties. The annual Sarplaninski Cup on Popova Sapka attracts skiers from Macedonia and beyond. The winter season’s popularity is evident, with around 28,000 foreign tourists arriving in December 2022 alone.
Bosnia and Herzegovina: Skiing Legacy and Snowy Landscapes
As an EU candidate and host to past Winter Olympics, Bosnia and Herzegovina offers esteemed ski resorts like Vlasic, Bjelasnica, and Jahorina. Winter activities extend beyond skiing to include snowshoeing, with trails like Čvrsnica Mountain providing captivating snow-covered landscapes. The country’s appeal is evident, with over 50,000 foreign tourists visiting in December 2022, marking the growing popularity of this captivating destination.
Türkiye: Winter Wonders Beyond Schengen Restrictions
While Türkiye poses challenges for Schengen visa holders, specific nationalities are permitted entry. Lake Çıldır, Türkiye’s second-largest lake, freezes in winter, creating a picturesque backdrop for various activities. Traditional sleigh rides, snowmobile rentals, and horse-sleigh trips on the frozen lake offer immersive winter experiences. For skiing enthusiasts, the Uludağ ski centre, easily accessible from Istanbul, provides diverse slopes and convenient lifts.
Conclusion
Exploring these non-Schengen winter destinations with a Schengen visa unveils a tapestry of diverse landscapes and exhilarating activities. Beyond the challenges of limited Schengen stays, these countries beckon with their unique winter charms, making them ideal havens for those seeking unforgettable seasonal adventures.
