MSPeconomist,

I'm very gratefull you have some amazing suggestions.

I love the idea of the Germany suggestion it sounds perfect, alas l feel that neither of us would be confident to drive, maybe base somewhere and using a car and driver do a few overnights from base camp.
The Christmas village also is at the top of the list i'll check into this!

You are right on with these sort of idea's I think, mountains, snow beauty and spirit.