Where to Go in January and February

January

Brussels and Bruges: With their pop-up book looks, Brussels and Bruges take on a special kind of magic in winter. Enjoy the snow-covered scenery and forget all about the cold as you warm your mitts with a cone of hot Belgian Frites or a greedy helping of chocolate-smothered waffles. January's detox can wait.

Salzburg: Looking for an Austrian ski resort that's big on thrills, but short on transfers? Schladming is a hard act to beat. Located just 60 minutes from Salzburg Airport, Schladming is part of the Ski Amade area, a little piece of alpine heaven that's ideal for experienced, intermediate skiers. Rent a car or take the trolley bus from Salzburg main railway station. Buses leave every 10 minutes and the journey only takes around an hour.

Lanzarote: Promised to get more active in the New Year? Kick things off with an adrenaline-fuelled trip to Lanzarote. Let's face it, with temperatures hovering around the 18C temperature mark, an active break in Lanzarote will do a lot more to entice you off the sofa than the prospect of a frosty morning run at home. Hike the famous Fire Mountains of Timanfaya National Park, explore volcanic landscapes, all while getting a much needed fix of vitamin D. For more tips on Lanzarote's outdoor fitness scene, read More than Sun: Active Lanzarote.

Amsterdam: Wave goodbye to dark winter evenings and pop over to Amsterdam for the city's Light Festival, a night-time exhibition by light artists, featuring colourful displays and light sculptures throughout the city centre and along its famous canals.  Fancy seeing Amsterdam like a local while you're there?  Check out our guide.

Scotland: Pack your tartan (and leave...