Humans are a curious bunch. Most of our finest achievements stem from wondering the outcome of something ludicrous.
Skiing stemmed from the question, “What if I threw myself down a snowy mountain with sticks stuck to my feet.” Thankfully, it turned out to be fun. And a few years later, it’s one of the world’s favorite (albeit pricey) hobbies.
Ski resorts and hotels are the outcome of an equally ludicrous query. What if we put the bar halfway down the hill? From there, we cut out any middlemen and put the beds there, too. Voila, you’ve now got luxury ski resorts.
Here are some of the best ski resorts and hotels in the world. Best of all, the price points aren’t too shabby.
Budget
Crowne Plaza ANA Resort Appi Kogen
Location: Hachimantai, Japan
Price: $97+
Vibe: Far East and easy on the wallet
The rundown: So you might have to travel across the world to find it, but it’s possible to grab a fantastic ski resort hotel for under $100. That’s precisely what’s on offer at Crowne Plaza ANA Resort Appo Kogen.
The rooms are an outstanding example of Japanese minimalism, squeezing every inch of serenity out of the given space. The hotel’s communal areas are just as impressively designed. If you can, grab a room with a slope view. Even better, a day’s ski pass is also extremely affordable. Work some points magic, and you could be looking at the cheapest ski vacation of all time.
Crowne Plaza Lake Placid
Location: Lake Placid, New York
Price: $130+
Vibe: Budget-friendly black run
The rundown: A little closer to home is another Crowne Plaza. While not quite as cheap as one of the best ski resorts listed above, base rates of around $130 are still stellar. For an affordable property, they’ve packed it full of luxurious amenities, and rooms boast spectacular views of the surrounding countryside.
Those focussed on the slopes won’t be disappointed with the numerous runs available. It’s not ski-in/ski-out, but you’re within striking distance of a ski lift, as well as a ton of other outdoor pursuits if you visit during the off-season.
Boutique
Grand Hotel Kempinski High Tatras
Location: Strbske Pleso, Slovakia
Price: $255+
Vibe: Slovakian luxury on the slopes
The rundown: Going big doesn’t mean you have to blow your savings—it just means picking a slightly cheaper market, like Slovakia. The Grand Hotel Kempinski is stunning. Dripping with luxury and charging only $255 for a room, any stay here will feel like a bargain.
The slopes are nearby, with private coaches, group sessions, and equipment rentals all available in the hotel. You’re also in Slovakia, if you need reminding, so you can take in the fairytale surroundings and try some of the local fare, too.
Hotel Valle Nevado
Location: Santiago, Chile
Price: $250+
Vibe: Summer ski escape
The rundown: If you’re craving a summer ski sesh, your options are a little limited in the Northern Hemisphere. But head South of the equator, and you’re back in business. Hidden away in Chile is one of the best ski resorts: the Valle Nevado resort—with the hotel of the same name taking pride of place as the flagship property.
The slopes are impressive, with the longest black flag run in South America in its arsenal, while the hotel is a comfortable, stylish haven to retreat to at the end of a long day in the snow. Prices are super reasonable, starting at $250. They’ve also got some great packages for combining the hotel with skiing.
Bougie
Lone Mountain Ranch
Location: Big Sky, Montana
Price: $570+
Vibe: Big on sky; Big on luxury
The rundown: Whether you’ve actually been on a ski vacation before or not, your mind probably jumps to snow-covered chalets nestled quietly amongst the trees, where you roll out of bed and straight onto the slopes. While that’s a bit harder to find, Lone Mountain Ranch is about as close to that as you’ll get…and twice as luxurious.
The stunning Montana-set hotel utilizes a number of immaculate chalets to house its guests. Comfy, cozy, plush, and warming for anyone traipsing in from the snow. If you’ve done enough skiing, there are many other outdoor activities to jump in on, from fishing and sledding to hiking tours. There’s a reason it’s one of the premier lodges of its kind in the US.
St. Regis Deer Valley
Location: Park City, Utah
Price: $550+
Vibe: Ski-in/ski-out of this world
The rundown: A true ski-in-ski-out luxury paradise, St. Regis Deer Valley is a massive favorite in the US skiing scene. Its sublime location in Park City, Utah puts nature at the forefront of the imagination, but if you’re able to look away from the scenery, the property itself isn’t terrible to marvel at either.
Offering excellent skiing amenities, including a ski valet during the high season, there’s nowhere better for an unbelievable break. Prices can run as high as $1,500 a night, so be prepared to drop a pretty penny for the privilege of staying here. It’s unlikely you’ll regret it, though.
by travelers, for travelers.
