As soon as the first leaves start to turn color, ski enthusiasts are already planning their next adventure and itching to get back on the snow. And no wonder! Skiing is a great fitness activity, something everyone who's old enough to walk can do, and it takes advantage of the beauty of the great outdoors. What's not to like?
But for those who have skied for years, they may have a been-there-done-that attitude. It takes a lot to impress these avid skiing buffs. With that in mind, here are three ski destinations that may give these downhill racers a new reason to strap on their skis.
Hotel Madeline in Telluride, Colorado
For those who hate crowded slopes, long lift lines, and limited ambiance for après-ski activities, Telluride, Colo. is the place to be. It is quickly becoming on of the chicest ski destinations in the Western United States, and has made Forbes magazine's list of the top 10 resorts for 2013. Telluride also boasts that it "dominates" the competition when it comes to the nicest restrooms.
Hotel Madeline sits on top of the gondola in Mountain Village, a must-see for visitors, and has one of the best ski-in/ski-out locations in Telluride. It has over 2,000 acres and 84 trails available for skiing. For advanced skiers (and adrenaline junkies) they even offer heli-skiing, which gives the skier access to some of the best snow in the San Juan Mountains, accessed by helicopter instead of a ski lift.
For those who want to give Telluride a try, book early to save 25 percent on two-night bookings and 35 percent on four-night stays in Superior and Deluxe King rooms. The package must be booked by October 18, 2013, and for travel from November 22 to April 7, 2014.
Omni Homestead Resort, Virginia
Think there's no skiing in the South? Think again. The Omni Homestead Resort in Hot Springs, Va. is the original downhill ski resort in the South. The Homestead opened in 1959 and pioneered the sport of skiing in an area known for mild winters, not for putting on skis.
While not as expansive as some ski resorts, the Homestead offers more than 45 acres of the immaculately-maintained Casino Lawn. Today, The Homestead has full snow-making capabilities and offers more than 45 acres trails to skiers of all abilities.
While advanced ski enthusiasists will enjoy the well-groomed downhill slopes, the Omni Homestead is known for its wide slopes perfect for families and beginners. Bring the family and enjoy all the snow activities without the pressure of having to find the fastest, steepest slope.
The Omni Homestead also has snow tubing, snowmobile tours and a year-round heated outdoor pool. Winter rates are affordable too, starting at $175/night.
Hotel Principe di Savoia in Milan, Italy
If U.S. ski resorts are just too pedestrian for the jet set skier, then hop over to Milan, Italy and try skiing in the Italian Alps. The Hotel Principe di Savoia is the perfect location for those who want to stay close to the fashion, food, and sightseeing in Milan but also be close to great skiing.
This hotel gives guests complimentary car service to the ski town of Courmayeur, two hours away on the Italian side of Mont Blanc. Skiers of all skill levels can enjoy the slopes by day and the glamour of Milan by night. Currently, rates at Hotel Principe di Savoia start at $330 USD nightly.
Sources:
Travelworldnews.com. Web. Published 6 September 2013. "Ski destinations for every type of traveler".
http://travelworldnews.com/2013/09/06/ski-destinations-for-every-type-of-traveler
Forbes.com. Web. Published 3 December 2012. "The top 10 ski resorts in the United States".
http://www.forbes.com/sites/christophersteiner/2012/12/03/the-top-10-ski-resorts-in-the-united-states-for-2013/2
Edited by Jody Smith