Remember when the non-skier in every group would while away the days sitting by the fire in the noisy base lodge? That unappealing prospect is no longer the only way to go. Full-service spas, shops, restaurants and art galleries have given ski vacations a broader appeal.
Off-slope winter activities, such as snow tubing, dogsledding and snowshoeing are increasingly available. You can now have a terrific time at the winter resorts without strapping on a pair of skis.
In Vail, Colorado you’ll find a snowmobile track for children, multiple snowtubing runs, and snowbiking. Shopping at Vail runs the gamut from toy stores and jewelry shops to specialty food outlets.
Telluride offers a ski town boasting restored buildings dating from the Wild West era, high-end shopping and dozens of gourmet restaurants. The mountain is linked to the town via gondola that makes the trip in less than 15 minutes.
In Jackson Hole, Wyoming, visitors can try snow kiteboarding, sleigh rides, dogsledding and snowshoeing, as well as wildlife tours with lunch or accommodations in a rustic yurt (a circular tent). Spa facilities are offered at all of the upscale resorts. The Bear & Doe Massage Works offers a paraffin dip and outdoor sweat lodge sauna.
All these distractions notwithstanding, it is hard to beat the thrill of a great day on the slopes, and thanks to the short shaped skis and improved instructional techniques, even the most reluctant visitor might be tempted to give the sport a try.
Start planning your Winter Vacation today!
Written by: C Kennedy
kennedy@atlastravelweb.com
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