Written By Jennifer Raskin
For some, the colder temperatures are already inspiring plans for winter vacations. Whether your idea of a splendid winter retreat involves hitting the slopes and reveling in the snow or you prefer a hot, sunny place with frozen libations firmly attached to your hand, there are many heavenly, luxurious destinations to choose.
Photo courtesy of Chateau Beaver Creek
Chateau Beaver Creek
Beaver Creek, CO
Skiing is one of the most popular winter activities. In the US, there are numerous resorts that can cater to your needs in every way. Because many are so big though, they can get tangled with crowds. Having the luxury of feeling more exclusive is certainly worth it which is why Chateau Beaver Creek is one of our top choices for winter travel.
Access is intentionally limited for non-resort guests so you’re already part of a distinguished few. White glove service and impeccable opulence at every turn await where nothing is left to chance. Hot chocolate chip cookies are doled out daily while the resort also boasts a pedestrian village to prevent guests from having to be inconvenienced on the stairs in boots.
While there are certainly no shortage of luxurious accommodations nearby, Chateau Beaver Creek tops them all with rooms that rival any Presidential Suite anywhere. With a European aesthetic, one of the best restaurants in Beaver Creek, Splendido, and countless upgrades, it’s the pinnacle of grandeur.
To learn more visit www.chateaubeavercreek.com.
Photo courtesy of The Lodge at Kukui’ula
The Lodge At Kukui’ula
Koloa, Hi
Not everyone desires an escape into the frigid mountainous landscapes for their winter retreat. If you dream of unfreezing your toes for a spell, journey to Kaua’i in Hawaii for warm weather adventures. It is there you’ll find The Lodge at Kukui’ula amid the towering cliffs, deep valleys, and mystical waterfalls. Helicopter tours are a must to indulge in the splendor of this lush land. Predictably, beaches will tempt you with plenty of watersports and opportunities to simply luxuriate in perfectly posh style.
The resort boasts the best in barefoot luxury with amenities for miles. It features three neighborhoods of exclusive vacation homes with jaw-dropping amenities designed to enhance your vacation including options for a private pool. The Lodge at Kukui’ula presents warm weather activities of leisure from golf to tennis and the sublime Hi’ilani Spa. A sprawling complex of pools and hot tubs plus tempting dining options will keep you from ever missing the snow.
To learn more visit www.lodgeatkukuiula.com.
Photo courtesy of Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley
Stein Eriksen Lodge Deer Valley
Park City, Ut
Those in the know simply call it “Stein’s,” but whatever you want to call this nod to European sophistication in Park City, it will tickle all your five-star fantasies. Stein Eriksen Lodge is a renowned resort that features plenty of posh amenities that make the jet-set ski crowd swoon. A ski-in, ski-out restaurant makes dining a treat while getting in time on the slopes while the five-star spa caters to your whims for relaxation.
With perfect winter whimsy, you can ride in a horse-driven carriage through the snow to enjoy fireside dining. In true Swiss tradition, massive wheels of raclette melt before your eyes and are served with other hearty European ski lodge favorites.
A newly-opened on-site movie theater exclusively for guests awaits on a first come, first served basis plus the famed Wine Cellar has undergone an expansion to make way for a private tasting room to experience some of the most indulgent wines in this esteemed collection.
To learn more visit www.steinlodge.com.
Photo courtesy of Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
Badrutt’s Palace Hotel
St. Moritz, Switzerland
If the glamour of skiing in the winter is what drives you, then set your sights on St. Moritz in Switzerland. Often called the most luxurious winter destination on the planet, the most elite of royals and Hollywood movie stars alike flock to this place. Among the most esteemed places to stay is Badrutt’s Palace Hotel, a historic property with immaculate mountain views.
Royalty or not, you’ll be treated as such for the most extravagant experience of your life. An indoor pool, lavish spa, shopping, and plenty more also await your discovery. Attention to detail in the most impressive regards will greet you at every turn. Hot water bottles are stowed under the sheets to help warm things up in your sumptuous accommodations. The property boasts culinary delights in its restaurants and plenty of bars, including the King’s Social House, called the oldest nightclub in the country.
To learn more visit www.badruttspalace.com.
Photo courtesy of The Caves Hotel
The Caves Hotel
Negril, Jamaica
Part of enjoying a vacation is not having to worry about a thing. The Caves does a splendid job of that. This all-inclusive resort set in the quiet beachside town of Negril will absolutely impress. A nirvana for travelers, you’ll be only minutes from the famed 7-mile white sands. Melded with that unique island charm and relaxed luxury, you’ll find plenty of opportunities to simply relax and revitalize, savoring this divine island life.
At The Caves, there are 12 stunning cliffside cottages to bring you the most brilliant views, plus private caves, dining gazebos, and a grand villa. The famous Blackwell Rum Bar is yours to enjoy while a spa, jacuzzi, saltwater swimming pool, and other indulgences await you for the ultimate in paradise. It’s the kind of place dreams are made of, even offering intimate five-star dining within caves for a truly one-of-a-kind escape from harsh winters.
To learn more visit www.thecaveshotel.com.
