We all love a little kitsch, and ski resorts in particular are known for them; throughout our travels, we've seen more antler chandeliers and bearskin rugs than we know what to do with. And while that can be great for a fun ski getaway with friends, sometimes you're looking for something a little more refined: That's where these 10 ski resorts come in. The hotels that make this list are some of the most luxurious around. Will you see an antler? Maybe one or two, but only in the most refined of ways -- it'll seem more chic than kitsch, we promise. Here are 10 gorgeous, elegant ski resorts we love.
The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe
With ski-in/ski-out access, cozy rooms with deep soaking tubs, a full service spa, three restaurants and lounges, a heated outdoor pool, and jaw-dropping, property-wide mountain vistas, you’ll want for nothing at The Ritz-Carlton, Lake Tahoe…except maybe for a little extra cash. As often comes with a name like The Ritz, fees abound and prices tend to skyrocket in the winter months.
Lumiere Hotel, Telluride
The stylish, boutique Lumiere Hotel offers some of the most luxurious accommodations in Mountain Village. Handsome rooms are modern and sophisticated, and decadent bathrooms have large soaking tubs and separate showers. With just 29 rooms, you’ll find privacy, peace, and personal service at the Lumiere, but for more amenities, such as an on-site spa and better restaurants, check out the equally luxurious Hotel Madeline Telluride.
The Sebastian, Vail
It’s not often that boutique hotels can offer all the grand amenities of a mega-resort, but The Sebastian seems to pull it off — and effortlessly, at that. At The Sebastian, guests will find high-end decor, multiple dining options, a chic lounge, an outdoor pool with four whirlpools, and an upscale spa. However, its location, right off I-70, could be a little better, and its standard rooms are just that — standard, which is somewhat of a let-down after seeing the hotel’s incredible lobby and other public spaces. Guests looking for more luxurious accommodations should consider upgrading to a one-bedroom suite.
Omni Mount Washington Resort, New Hampshire
Set against New Hampshire’s picture-perfect White Mountains, the majestic Omni Mount Washington Resort looks as though it was pulled from the pages of a fairytale. The stately white exterior leads to a classically decorated interior, where the cheery yellow and green accents and cream colored moldings will transport you to a simpler era. Though it doesn’t have the glitz and glam of some of the other resorts on our list, guests will appreciate its plentiful list of amenities and free shuttle to nearby slopes.
Four Seasons Resort Whistler
Winter is the ultimate of the “four seasons” (ha, we crack ourselves up) at this luxurious Whistler retreat. Easily the most beautiful hotel in the area, the Four Seasons Resort Whistler is especially enchanting when the snow falls. Cozy up next to your in-room fireplace, or take in the white-capped mountain peaks from the hotel’s top-notch steakhouse. Enjoy the heated outdoor pool after a long day on the slopes, or relax at the first-rate spa. Of course, no hotel is perfect; we wish the Four Seasons was a bit closer to the lively Whistler Village.
The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort
In the heart of Vail Square, at the foot of the Eagle Bahn Lift, lies The Arrabelle at Vail Square, a RockResort; and its lengthy name is worth remembering. This rustic-luxe, chalet-inspired lodge packs some serious wow factor. The 62 luxurious, well-appointed rooms feature massive bathrooms, stone fireplaces, and scenic balconies. And the lavish spa, rooftop lap pool, and attentive staff make The Arrabelle one of Vail’s premiere lodging options.
Montage Deer Valley, Park City
After staying at the Montage Deer Valley it’s unlikely you’ll ever want to stay elsewhere in Park City. The hotel’s convenient ski-in/ski-out location is just one of many perks. Guest rooms feel more like upscale apartments, with warm wood accents, chandeliers, high-end artwork, fireplaces, and marble bathrooms complete with heated floors, giant soaking tubs, and separate showers. There is a massive spa, an outdoor pool, several dining options, and even a bowling alley. But, unfortunately, this kind of luxury doesn’t come cheap: Expect everything to be pricey, from spa treatments to kids’ club activities.
Clay Brook at Sugarbush, Vermont
For the ultimate in family-friendly luxury, look no further than Vermont’s Clay Brook at Sugarbush resort. The ski-in/ski-out property at the foot of the Sugarbush slopes has family-friendly, multi-room units that feature elegant, rustic decor, with balconies, fireplaces, and full kitchens. Parents will love the beautiful fine dining restaurant and bar, grocery delivery service, and outdoor heated pool with mountain views. And the kids will go nuts for the game room, kiddie pool, and 800-foot zip line.
The Peaks See Forever Rentals, Telluride
If renting a three-bedroom condo sounds more appealing than staying in a tiny hotel room, The Peaks See Forever Rentals are your answer to luxury living in Telluride. Here, unit owners must meet high standards for decor, and trust us, the condos here are lovely. Guests can enjoy the amenities of the nearby Peaks Resort & Spa, including two pools, a ski valet, a spa, and a fitness center. And a daily housekeeping service ensures you’ll never have to lift a finger during your stay. The downside? There’s a hefty resort fee on top of the already steep winter rates.
The Little Nell, Aspen
With just under 100 rooms, The Little Nell seems to embody Aspen is a nutshell: from its gorgeous mountain view rooms to its exclusive ski concierge team — everything about The Little Nell is luxe. Guests will appreciate its location, just steps away from Aspen’s main lifts, but also its first tracks benefits, free transportation to and from all area mountains, and tons of seasonal outings. Guests may not appreciate its steep rates (even for Aspen, this place is expensive) and mandatory, per-night donation to a local environmental organization — but at least it’s for a good cause, right?!
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