Hotel Experiences

Winter’s Best Outdoor Adventures Await at These 10 Resorts

by Jenny Shank

Photograph by Jenny Shank

delta whistler

Feel the adrenaline by day, then gget cozy at night at Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites. (Photo: Marriott International)

One surefire cure for the winter blues is an outdoor adventure getaway. There’s nothing like a snowy day to warm the heart. Located across the globe, these resorts offer days of snowy thrills and nights of warm, cozy perks.

As always, check for travel guidelines and closures before planning your trip.

Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites

Just a short walk or shuttle ride from Whistler Village and its shops, museums (don’t miss the Squamish Lil’wat Cultural Centre), ice-skating, and legendary skiing, Delta Hotels by Marriott Whistler Village Suites has everything guests need to unwind after a day of activities. The property includes heated pools, full kitchens, guest grocery shopping, and laundry-room services, as well as complimentary ski storage for hitting the iconic slopes.

The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler

westin whistler
(Photo: Marriott International)

After a day of vigorous adventure on Whistler’s slopes, warm up by the fireplace in your suite at The Westin Resort & Spa, Whistler — steps away from the ski lifts. If you’re entirely exhausted from The Whistler Sliding Center, a nearby former Olympic track for luge, skeleton, and bobsledding, enjoy some room service and majestic mountain views at the resort.

The St. Regis Aspen Resort

st regis aspen
(Photo: Marriott International)

The St. Regis Aspen Resort lies in the heart of the beautiful resort town, near the main gondola. After an active day, the property’s deluxe spa and outdoor pool and bar will beckon, but the in-suite amenities might induce you to nestle into a plush robe, sip an espresso, dive into your pillow-top bed, or soak your ski-weary muscles in the tub.

The St. Regis Deer Valley

st regis deer valley
(Photo: Marriott International)

The St. Regis Deer Valley offers ski-in/ski-out access with a private ski valet, so it’s an easy trip back to your relaxing getaway. After a day of skiing fresh powder down the Wasatch Mountains, gather around for Champagne sabering on the Mountain Terrace or warm up by an in-room fireplace and gaze at the mountains from your private terrace.

W Verbier

w verbier
(Photo: Marriott International)

If you’ve ever fantasized about a European alpine vacation, this is the place to realize that dream. Voted the “World’s Best Ski Hotel” for multiple years, W Verbier features modern chalet design, in-room fireplaces, and spectacular mountain views within steps to the lifts.

The Westin Rusutsu Resort

westin rusutsu resort
(Photo: Marriott International)

Powderhounds flock to Rusutsu for its 45 annual feet of snow and its long, serene runs. And at its base, the 23-story Westin Rusutsu Resort lavishes guests with views of Mount Yotei, ski-in/ski-out access, a hot spring facility overlooking Shikotsu-Toya National Park with a variety of onsen baths, and in-room kitchenettes.

W Aspen

w aspen
(Photo: Marriott International)

The après-ski scene is lively at W Aspen, topped with a see-and-be-seen rooftop bar complete with a heated pool, hot tubs, fire pits, and 360-degree mountain views. The vibe is energetic throughout, with bright ’70s-inspired decor and modern chalet style.

JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa

jw marriott rosseau
(Photo: Marriott International)

Ontario’s Muskoka Lakes have attracted outdoor enthusiasts for more than 150 years; in 1894, a resort first opened on the Lake Rousseau site that is now graced by the expansive JW Marriott The Rosseau Muskoka Resort & Spa.

Opportunities for ice-skating, snowshoeing, fat-tire biking, and cross-country skiing abound with complimentary gear. After the outdoor exertion, find respite in the luxury spa, in-room fireplaces, many dining options, and even the majestic, igloo-like Crystal Head IceBar.

Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center

gaylord rockies resort
(Photo: Marriott International)

Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center situates visitors within a driving distance to Colorado’s Front Range, and offers many attractions and stunning views on-site. From the Relâche Spa and Fitness Center to the Arapahoe-Springs Waterpark and pools inside and outside the resort — there is something for every guest and every mood. To round out the day, warm up with a personal s’mores kit by the outdoor fire.

Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge

residence inn breckenridge
(Photo: Marriott International)

The picturesque town known by loyal mountaingoers as Breck centers around winter fun. Hop on a heated snowcat or horse-drawn sleigh, mush a team of sled dogs, or zip down world-class ski slopes. Residence Inn by Marriott Breckenridge, just off Main Street, is a walk from charming shops and restaurants and treats visitors to a heated pool and hot tub, free breakfast, and a shuttle to the mountain.