Photo courtesy as noted

As winter descends, many American towns transform into havens of opulence and sophistication, each luring ski aficionados with a unique blend of world-class amenities, breathtaking scenery, and wealth of winter activities.

If you’re seeking the perfect spot to après-ski against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains, indulge yourself with a trip to one of the following winterwonderland retreats.

Stowe, Vermont

Venture to the northeastern Green Mountains of Vermont, and you’ll find the striking town of Stowe, a destination rich in accommodations ranging from luxury resorts to cozy bed and breakfasts. Some notable spots include the traditional charm of the Green Mountain Inn and the Trapp Family Lodge founded by the famous Von Trapp family—as evidenced by its luxe, Austrianinspired design. After you settle in, wander through Stowe’s boutique shopping and gallery avenues or take to Mount Mansfield for top-quality skiing and snowboarding. Be sure to dine at Harrison’s Restaurant, a town treasure that serves creative contemporary American dining in a comforting family establishment. Do so, and you may quickly discover why Fodor’s Travel once named Stowe the country’s top ski stop for foodies. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, fine-food connoisseur, or thrill seeker, Stowe promises fulfillment for just about anyone.

Santa Fe, New Mexico

“The City Different” presents a distinct perspective on winter with its ancient adobe structures, vibrant New Mexican cuisine inspired by generations of Southwestern recipes, and one-of-a-kind shopping that spotlights products by indigenous artisans. In fact, it’s earned the honor of being designated a UNESCO Creative City for its aesthetic wonders that include outstanding crafts and folk arts as well as fascinating museums. Santa Fe has won praise for its skiing as well thanks to its location on the foothills of the surrounding Sangre de Cristo Mountains. These various resorts offer luxurious accommodations that perfectly balance history-inspired style with modern amenities, including the soaking baths at Ten Thousand Waves’ spa and fine dining and mixology at the Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado Santa Fe. Vibrant and unique, this spectacular cultural city must be experienced firsthand to be believed.

Telluride, Colorado

If you associate ski towns with nothing but repetitive trips up and down a frosty mountainside, Telluride is here to exceed your expectations. It’s rife with firstclass culture, including indulgent spas, renowned art galleries, and fascinating architecture ranging from ancient Anasazi sites to charming Victorian homes. Then again, don’t shrug off the skiing—Telluride boasts North America’s highest concentration of mountains between 13,000 and 14,000 feet in elevation, which are the perfect height for enjoying our nation’s favorite winter sport to the fullest. Or if you’d rather soak in this breathtaking scenery without a down jacket, settle in with a cocktail or hot cocoa inside one of the town’s iconic hotels, such as the Lumière’s boutique accommodations or the Madeline Hotel & Residences’ five-star rooms. Be sure to take the stunning gondola ride up the peaks to Allred’s restaurant, which features an award-winning wine list and an unforgettable prix-fixe menu—it’s a one-of-akind experience not to be missed.

Big Sky, Montana

Located just an hour north of iconic Yellowstone, Big Sky is a worthy destination unto itself—and a more ideal site for winter tourism. This ski mecca in the heart of the Rocky Mountains features a vibrant community that’s rich in public art installations offers over 5,800 acres of winter-sports terrain, and boasts boutique shops that source name-brand winter apparel and locally made crafts alike. For relaxation like nowhere else, check into one of the area’s many gorgeous accommodations, including the famed Summit Hotel, a contemporary “Euro-Western” institution that promises elegant amenities such as an indoor/ outdoor soaking pool and in-room fireplaces. Big Sky invites worldwide visitors to partake in chic experiences that ensure all the comforts of city life— without losing touch with its gorgeous alpine setting.