For some, the perfect ski vacation means terrain, powder and parties. Many would sleep in their cars, if it meant that they could afford to ski all season. There’s no shame in that. Even Warren Miller slept in his car when he was first starting out.
Others thrive upon the finer things that life has to offer, and prefer to stay at hotels whose beauty rivals, or at least blends with, the surrounding mountains. Here are four suggestions to consider.
They provide a perfect venue for a romantic getaway, a honeymoon, or an anniversary present for your parents, in order to thank them for getting you your first pair of skis.
Banff, Canada: Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise
Majestic mountain peaks, a glistening lake and an awe-inspiring glacier surround this castle in the snow. Historic elegance, impeccable service and award-winning cuisine add to the experience.
Andermatt Switzerland: The Chedi Residences
The Alps convene with Asia in this five-star hotel and apartment development. The hotel boasts open fireplaces, wood paneling, and two gourmet restaurants, one of which offers a tempura and sushi bar. The Chedi Residences give a whole new meaning to the idea of feng shui.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy: Cristallo Hotel Spa & Golf
Perched high in a mountain setting near the Cortina d’Ampezzo Ski Resort, Cristallo follows a time-honored tradition of luxury and elegance, which began in 1901. The hotel even provides a convenient helicopter transport service from the nearest heliport in Fiames, 15 minutes from the hotel. Its 74 rooms, which include 22 suites, feature warm hand-painted, wood-paneled walls, armchairs and beds covered with elegant textiles, embroidered carpets in soft colors and Gustavian-style furniture and decor.
Vail, Colorado: Arrabelle at Vail Square
In an article titled 10 Best Ski Lodges in the U.S., Frommer’s Vail Square’s facade as Bavarian luxury meets storybook fantasyland. The Arrabelle at Vail Square enjoys a slopeside location in the heart of the revitalized square. Boasting lavish guest rooms and a rooftop pool, the hotel nods to the architectural style of the European Grand hotels, while offering the most modern conveniences.
Even if you travel to the most beautiful ski resort hotels in the world, a lost pair of skis can ruin your vacation. Trust shipskis.com to safely deliver your most precious boards.