Six Top Destinations for Winter Adventuristas
Yes we understand it’s cuffing season, but instead of hiding under the covers all winter with your boo, why not ‘live the width of life’ and go on a winter adventure? From hitting the slopes with bae, to four-wheel ATV riding through the deep snow with your girlfriends, we've found some of the best destinations for all types of winter thrill seekers:-Val Thorens, FranceNestled between snow-filled mountains in the heart of the French Alps, Val Thorens—which is the highest ski resort in Europe at an altitude of 2,300 metres—is a place that needs to be experienced by all. As the highest point of the largest ski area in the world, you will be sure to get your entire life, with view points to both the Swiss and Italian Alps as well. Whether you’re searching for adventure or looking for a time-out, Val Thorens provides something special to all who visit. A short flight from Paris, or a one-hour connecting flight to Geneva, ending with a luxury coach ride will get you to the heart of this breathtaking ski village with the French Alps on your doorstep. Not to mention, it’s the perfect atmosphere for a winter photoshoot, just in case you want to stunt for the ‘gram!Stay – Club Med Val ThorensIt’s safe to say that you’ll be right at home once you arrive. With some of the most luxurious accommodations in the Alps, you can enjoy this all-inclusive option (if that’s your thing) at Club Med Val Thorens. The four-star resort has the same fun-loving staff and the same all-inclusive ease, but it’s a step up for the company in design and cuisine. Once you’ve arrived, you’re surrounded by snowy mountain peaks and chairlifts criss-crossing in all directions. And did we mention there’s a rock climbing wall as soon as your enter the hotel, in the lobby? ‘Nuff said.-Aspen, ColoradoThe world-class skiing is what draws most people to Aspen, but once you arrive you’ll see that it’s much more than your average ski town. With lively nightlife, plenty of shopping and great restaurants, there is a ton to do both on and off the slopes. So grab your girlfriends, your boo or anything in between and venture out to one of the four ski areas which boast 5,000+ acres of skiable terrain, about 330 marked trails, and 42 lifts. Groomers, tree runs, backcountry skiing—Aspen Snowmass has something that suits all skiing and riding abilities and styles.Stay – St. Regis AspenFor those looking for luxe winter options, this winter the St. Regis Aspen is offering two packages that could be a great for anyone seeking to get out and explore this winter. First those who want to ski in style, the resort has partnered with High Society Freeride Company to create a limited edition St. Regis Aspen ski for the winter ski season. Also, the resort is inviting guests to relax and revitalize with the Mountaintop Reboot program: a 3-night stay at the Aspen property including fat biking, daily cold-pressed juices, yoga, and customized massages – the perfect way to jumpstart any healthy commitment.-Telluride, ColoradoAlong with some of the best terrain for skiing and snowboarding, Telluride also offers ideal terrain for winter’s newest trend, fat tire biking. An off-the-beaten-path destination, Telluride also has tons of culinary options, bars, winter activities and more. Want to venture outside of the typical ski towns and do something different? Telluride is the way to go.Stay - Hotel TellurideHotel Telluride’ has put together a package for guests to experience fat tire biking, and the local award-winning Telluride Brewing Company and Telluride Distillery—just don’t do them back-to-back! The Snow Bike & Brew package combines adventure and luxury with a three-night stay in an Elite View room offering 180 degree views of the San Juan Mountains, a private professionally-guided fat bike snow tour by the Telluride Bootdoctors (a local professional outdoor retailer since 1986), locally crafted beers and spirits, and a customized five-course dining experience.-Jackson Hole, WyomingIf you’ve never been to Wyoming, just know that snowboarding and skiing at Jackson Hole Mountain is the best in the country at the moment. Enjoy 19-22” of fresh powder just about every day and when you're done, you can explore it's natural attractions. Grand Teton National Park is breathtaking with it's enormous mountain range and wildlife staring right at you, becoming a fairy tale winter wonderland during the cold months. And lastly, the food scene is better than you could ever imagine. From whole-in-wall cowboy bars with escavated tree trunks to fine dining, every palate is served. Bon appetite!Stay -Hotel Terra or Teton Mountain Lodge & SpaLocated slopeside to Jackson Hole Mountain aka "The Big One," both properties will be celebrating the mountain’s 50th anniversary this ski season. Over its nearly 50-year history, Jackson Hole in Teton Village has evolved into a world-class adventure destination increasingly sought after by the most discerning travelers. So, it’s time to partake in the anniversary celebrations that both of these hotels have to offer!-Minneapolis, MinnesotaWhy not try visiting the beautiful state of Minnesota? Minneapolis plays just as hard in the snow as they do out of it. From flying kites at the Lake Harriet Kite Festival, to playing hockey at the U.S. Pond Hockey Championships and conquering the elements one ski at a time in the City of Lakes Loppet—there’s no shortage of things to do in Minneapolis. If you’re looking for a fun outdoor adventure, you can also head down to Theodore Wirth Park and you get the ultimate in winter recreation. Snowboard, cross-country ski, snow-shoe, sled and tube; whatever way you like to get down a large hill, they've got it. And since Minneapolis is also home to the Mall of America, if you don’t want to spend the day in the snow (or cold, for that matter), you can spend days on end without even leaving the mall.Stay - Le Méridien Chambers MinneapolisYou may be used to Biggie Smalls’ reference of Le Méridien, and this one is equally as great. And to top it off, Le Méridien Chambers Minneapolis launched an experience package for travelers looking to embrace the snowy season this year. The boutique art style hotel invites guests to get "Hooked On Winter” with a VIP package that begins with a full-day guided ice fishing excursion that includes locally brewed beer and lunch, followed by dinner at MARIN Restaurant & Bar, where Executive Chef Mike Rakun prepares the day’s catch (ice-house to table!) with a wine-pairing dinner in the restaurant’s private cellar. After all the indulgence, guests are invited to warm up with a cup of hot cocoa or nightcap in your room or suite.
Las Vegas, Nevada. Vegas may seem like an unlikely option, but there is more to the bustling city that meets the eye. And even though snow is unlikely, you can find a bit of winter adventure to satisfy your needs. And if that isn’t enough, a weekend in Vegas can cure almost anything so you can always opt for the traditional options of partying, lounging by the pool, eating your heart out, shows (such as the MJ Experience – which is a must see) and luxury hotels.
Stay – The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas
Vegas may be known for its lavish parties, 5-star hotels, and delectable cuisine, but the Las Vegas Strip will be getting a dose of holiday magic with the return of The Ice Rink at The Cosmopolitan of Las Vegas. This year, the winter wonderland overlooking the heart of The Strip will be bigger and better than ever with 4,200 square feet of real ice, snow showers every half hour between 6 PM – 10 PM Wednesday through Sunday, movie screenings, curated cocktails and roasted s’mores over a fire pit. What more could you ask for in your hotel stay? Not to mention the hotel will experience a new immersive digital art installation called “Little Winter” that combines digital technology and architecture into one captivating piece.