The five best freezing cold island holidays

Adventure

Don't fancy rubbing shoulders with leathery pensioners in the Canaries? If you prefer sub-zero temperatures to sun-seeking, don some insulated thermals and explore the world's most exhilarating, frost-bitten islands.

Here’s travel expert Sam Katterfield of HolidayPirates.com with some insider tips…

Svalbard Islands, Norway

This rugged archipelago is located halfway between between the North Pole and the Norwegian mainland. The islands offer great opportunities for spotting polar bears and the northern lights. Due to the danger of polar bears, your guide will carry a firearm when outside of the settlements. And you? We suggest you carry your own bear suit, and try to seduce your way to safety. Buy

Nantucket, Massachusetts, USA

Nantucket is a former whaling colony that inspired Moby Dick. The crowds die down once the weather gets cold, so you'll have the windswept beaches all to yourself. The clear winter nights are a fine time for stargazing. Stay warm with a bottle of Notch ('not Scotch'), the island's 12-year single malt whisky. Buy

Ushuaia, Tierra del Fuego, Argentina

Separated from the mainland by the Strait of Magellan, Ushuaia is commonly known as the 'End of the World'. Considered the southernmost city on the planet, it's perched on a steep hill that overlooks the Beagle Channel, famously populated by penguins and sea lions. Not cold enough? Hop on the boat to Antarctica. Buy

Islay, Scotland

The Hebrides are known for producing Scotland's national drink (no, not Irn-Bru). It's tough to choose just one Scottish island but Islay (population: 3,228) stands out due to its world famous whisky distilleries. A peaty malt from the likes of Lagavulin or Laphroaig should take the bite out of the air. Buy

Iceland

Thanks to EasyJet, you can now soak up viking vibes for as little as £27. This Instagram-friendly island's geothermal spas and biblical ice fields will provide an epic backdrop for your selfies. Go in summer, when it's just above freezing, if you want to venture into the ice tunnels beneath the island's largest glacier. Buy