When it comes to winter travel, few trips can top the luxury ski vacation. Skiing or snowboarding down powdery slopes by day and basking in the warmth of a log fire while sipping the perfect apres' ski cocktail at night is a sublime way to close out the year.
Not all ski-in, ski-out lodges and resorts are equal. You want to be at a premier destination that provides prime snow conditions, the exceptional accommodations, delicious food, and a top-shelf assortment of indoor fun and pampering to enjoy when the skis are off.
These are the top ski in and ski out destinations to jet to this year.
The Four Seasons – Vail
If seven miles of Colorado Rocky alpine runs aren't enough to pack the fleeces and head to this high elevation paradise, visitors also enjoy the boutique shopping found in Vail's charming Tyrolean-style village.
The Four Seasons Resort and Residences in Vail offers the luxurious experience guests have come to expect from the Four Seasons brand within steps of Colorado's best skiing location.
Modern mountain cuisine is dished inside or out day or night from a selection of restaurants fitting for the dramatic views. Take a cocktail out on one of the heated terraces, or cozy up with a loved one beside one of the many stone fireplaces.
Muscles that become sore from a day on the slopes can relax at the award-winning spa. The services include a bevy of organic and state-of-the-art treatments dialed in for maximum effectiveness in cold weather and high-altitude conditions.
The comfortable rooms include fine leather furniture for relaxing and soaking in the dramatic views, while private gas-burning fireplaces bedside keep toes toasty and spirits high.
Fairmont Chateau – Whistler
Whistler, British Columbia has some of the best skiing experiences on the planet. The Fairmont Chateau in Whistler, located at the foot of Blackcomb Mountain is in the prime location for ski in and out resort experiences.
Built in a classic chateau style, this 12 story charmer is a picturesque basecamp for having a winter adventure with the whole family.
Plan a trip around one of the Fairmont's many special events like The Whistler Christmas Story for an added holiday treat.
Travelers who need a break from snow banks and twinkling lights will marvel at the chateau's oversized pool deck. It's the perfect way to end a day of outdoor activity.
Hotel Airelles – Courchevel
It's no secret that France boasts some of the best ski resorts in the world. The mythical palace appearance of the Hotel Airelles in beautiful Courchevel will blow your mind with atmosphere and service.
Come for the Olympic-level skiing (Courchevel was the location of the ski jump and Nordic combined events during the Winter Olympics of 1992) stay for the exquisite French dining and opulent chalet accommodations.
Plush chamber rooms decked out in equal parts rich wood, and heirloom fabrics present a timeless environment where decadence reigns supreme.
Order in a tray of sweet brioche and wash it down with a sparkling mimosa before skiing out into the winter wonderland of the French countryside.
Four Seasons – Jackson Hole
Wyoming's Grand Tetons are a majestic sight all year long. It's almost unfair that the area offers incredible skiing as well.
For the best ski in and out opportunity in Jackson Hole, head to the Four Seasons Resort surrounded by this breathtaking mountain range.
The hotel balances the rustic feel of the West with five-star luxury rooms and dining. In the evening, sip a craft cocktail at the popular slope-side bar or enjoy an entire romantic dinner in the privacy of your suite.
For skiers looking to mix downhill runs with a taste of the grand Americana-this is the outpost to hit.
A proper ski resort is never about one thing. It must provide a healthy mix of comfort, luxury, warmth, good weather, great food and drink, and of course, mountainous layers of light snow.
Ski-in and out of one of these high-class resorts, and you won't just be floating down mountains, you'll be increasing the amplitude of your entire trip.
