Redefining the Ski Season: Where to Hit The Slopes
The most coveted destinations for a ski season to remember.
We’d be lying if we told you that summer didn’t have our hearts. It’s more than likely you’ll find us in Costa Rica or Montauk through the months of May and September, the ocean as much a welcome reprieve from the heat as it is a soothing balm for our souls. But when winter slowly creeps into focus, and snow begins to coat the grounds of some of our favorite skiing locales, you can bet we’ll be vying for those first, coveted spots on the lift. Up ahead, some of our favorite winter vacation destinations—après ski spots included.
STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, COLORADO
Steamboat Springs is for the adventurers in the group. Admittedly not the most convenient to get to, Steamboat is roughly a 4-hour drive from the Denver airport—but worth every second spent in the car. Arriving in this small skiing enclave means you’ve earned access to two ski areas and some of the most well-loved hot springs in perhaps the entire country. Colorado’s essence shines here, the natural beauty of the high Rocky Mountains evident from nearly any vantage point. And though all of Colorado is a scenic wonder, there’s something about this remote town that makes it feel especially magical. While you’re there, hit Laundry for après cocktails. The old Steamboat Laundry until 1970, this restaurant is now an intimate setting for happy hour and nightcaps alike. As for the hot springs, make your way to Strawberry Park for a next-level healing experience, and the perfect way to rewind and restore after a ski session.
DENVER, COLORADO
Though not technically a skiing hotspot, Denver remains a mecca for mountain life—and for good reason. With the Denver airport conveniently located here, you can get to any mountain—like Breckenridge and Keystone—in roughly two hours. The city itself is full of breweries, restaurants, art and culture. Whether stopping over en route to your final destination or coming for a visit, here are three things to try while you’re here. The Great Divide Brewing Co. is an amazing first stop that showcases taproom exclusives each week. Denver is also highly walkable, and, in doing so, you’ll have the chance to see the amazing street art and murals that decorate building facades throughout downtown. For more of a focused endeavor, visit the Kirkland Institute of Fine & Decorative Art or the Clyfford Still Museum, each featuring an array of highly talented artists and painters.
BIG SKY, MONTANA
Home to some of the country’s most amazing mountains and mountain scenery, Big Sky, Montana is a stunning escape into nature. On and off the slopes, you’ll quickly become privy to the untamed beauty of this aptly named locale. Stunning vistas come into view from the top of the mountain, letting you take in a breath of fresh air as you embark downhill. But that’s not all—piste lunches are just as vital to the experience, and there’s plenty to come by, especially at Blue Moon Bakery. With an assortment of pizzas and sandwiches, you’ll have plenty of options to choose from for a mid-day meal. Try Horn and Cantle for an intimate dinner with incredible views, and, for the adventurous folks in the group, make sure The Montana Dinner Yurt is also on your list of dining experiences.
CHAMONIX, FRANCE
Going international more your scene? Put Chamonix, France on the map. One hour from Geneva and cozily nestled in the Alps, you get a perfect mix of culture and adventure. Most well known is the Les Grand Montets, both for its snow and its off-piste, so you don’t want to miss it. For dining, gather at La Tablèe for classic fondue and French wines. With rustic charm and a cozy ambiance, this is the ideal place to meet for après ski.
Winter can be cold and dreary, but only if you don’t know where to go. Keep this list close, and we’re confident you’ll never have a boring winter again.
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