Wheelchair Accessible Winter Getaways

A winter break can be magical but the cold weather and snow can often prove difficult for wheelchair users. It’s easy to search the internet for the best tourist spots and places to eat but information on wheelchair access can be limited.

Many holiday hotspots have been improving their accessibility so that everyone can have a good time.  Disability Horizons put together a list of the most wheelchair accessible winter getaways for 2015 and we think they’re well worth a look.

Vancouver

This city has become one of the most accessible in the world, thanks to their commitment to improving disabled services. Public transport and taxis are wheelchair accessible, kerbs are lowered, and crossing signals are audible. Parks are also a place that wheelchair users can enjoy as the local government has expanded their accessibility along with other types of recreation programmes.

For those brave enough to try the winter sports, Vancouver has developed a sports programme suitable for people of all abilities – check out Vancouver Adaptive Snow Sports.

Vienna

Many people assume that the cobbled streets of Vienna will make it impossible for wheelchair users to visit this beautiful destination. However the stones have been smoothed which makes it easier for disabled visitors to get around and the city centre is a designated pedestrian zone so there is no need to worry about pavements or kerbs.

Public transport is suitable for wheelchair users, although you may have to wait as some of the older trams don’t have lowered floors. Hotels and the majority of restaurants have been adapted for wheelchair users and the staff are friendly and willing to help.

The museums and peaceful parks are brilliant to visit if you fancy a break from the bustle of the city.

Utah

This American state is renowned for its accessible ski resorts and it’s easy to see why. The airport is fully accessible, with plenty of wheelchair accessible vehicles to take visitors to their resorts. Some ski slopes can even accommodate wheelchair users.

The National Ability Centre, based in Park City, specialise in adaptive sports such as skiing and snowboarding.

Harbin, China

For those who don’t fancy winter sports, Harbin in China is the perfect destination for winter sightseeing. This city is famous for its annual Ice Festival where hundreds of sculptures light up the dark nights. Whilst there is nowhere to rent wheelchairs, the city has become more accommodating with the vast majority of hotels and restaurants now wheelchair accessible. For ease of access it is best to visit in February before the ice melts.

Do you have a favourite winter getaway? Share your thoughts or winter holiday snaps on our facebook or twitter pages.