As winter approaches, luxury travelers face an enticing choice: Embrace the snow-draped splendor of premier ski destinations or seek warmth in exotic locales. Whether drawn to the rush of Alpine sports with mountain vistas or the calm of secluded beachfront villas, this season offers unforgettable experiences for the discerning traveler.
Experienced travelers are increasingly looking beyond U.S. borders for their ski getaways, said Jessica Parker, a luxury-travel adviser and founder of Trip Whisperer. “With U.S. ski resorts becoming more expensive, well-heeled travelers are heading to more far-flung slopes, like the renowned French Alps and Zermatt [Switzerland],” she said. “I also recommend the Dolomites and Andorra, a hidden gem nestled between Spain and France. It’s often overlooked but has been gaining popularity for years.”
Another coveted destination for luxury travelers is Japan, famous not just for its sake and sushi but also for its unique skiing opportunities.
“Japan’s Alps attract skiers seeking novelty and prestige,” Parker said. “With the country’s efficient train system, travelers can visit Kyoto and Tokyo before heading to Mount Naeba for a week on the slopes. The Dragondola, Japan’s longest gondola, offers a scenic 25-minute ride with stunning views.”
From the powdery slopes of Aspen to the pristine sands of St. Barths, here’s how to make the most of winter in style, wherever your travels take you.
Ski
For those seeking international charm but looking for a destination closer than Japan, Zermatt remains a timeless favorite. This classic resort features the country’s largest heli-skiing operation and the iconic Gornergrat Railway, one of Europe’s highest cogwheel railways, offering panoramic views of the Matterhorn and surrounding peaks.
The Essentialist, a membership-based travel service, recommends Chalet Zermatt Peak, an exclusive property perched above the village — with five deluxe double bedrooms, floor-to-ceiling windows, a sky observatory roof and an indoor/outdoor Jacuzzi. For alternative luxury stays, Cervo Mountain Resort or The Omnia both offer fine dining and premium accommodations.
For travelers looking to elevate their ski holiday, R Collection Hotels offers a “fly the Alps package” — a blend of luxury, adventure and scenic beauty. Guests can take in sweeping views of the Mont Blanc range and enjoy a helicopter ride between the Grand Hotel Courmayeur Mont Blanc in Courmayeur, France, and the Montana Lodge & Spa in La Thuile, Italy.
For those preferring to stay stateside, classic ski hubs like Aspen, Telluride and Deer Valley continue to top the list. Santa Fe, New Mexico, however, might surprise even seasoned skiers. Its rich culture, fine arts scene and culinary offerings make it one of the most distinctive ski destinations in the country. The historic Bishop’s Lodge, part of the Auberge Resorts Collection, crafts bespoke ski experiences, including heli-ski trips to the Santa Fe Mountain.
Colorado, known for its dependable snow and luxury amenities, continues to impress. Aspen’s Hotel Jerome offers access to four mountains on a single lift ticket: Aspen, Highlands, Buttermilk and Snowmass. This storied property features classic après-ski activities like “curling and cocktails” in the winter garden and exclusive caviar and Champagne tastings with Petrossian’s “Hotel Jerome selection” Ossetra caviar.
For ski-in, ski-out convenience, top properties such as the Goldener Hirsch in Deer Valley and the Madeline Hotel & Residences in Telluride deliver seamless luxury experiences.
Sea and sand
For warmer temperatures at sea, island-hopping in the Caribbean on a yacht has never been more appealing and approachable with the likes of The Ritz-Carlton Yacht Collection, Emerald Yacht Cruises, Explora Journeys and Regent Seven Seas, said Parker.
“These aren’t your average cruises and dining experiences,” she said. “I’ve found lately that most of the cruise lines have made an exceptional effort to bring Michelin quality to sea. The top suites can rival any luxury hotels in the world, with dedicated butlers, private whirlpools, sweeping terraces and more. It's been very impressive to see the luxury range out there now and be able to match clients with the right style, age demographic and experience.”
One location that has become quite popular for those looking to stay on land is Costa Rica. Two properties — The Gilded Iguana Surf Hotel, a family-owned and locally run boutique beachfront hotel in Nosara, Costa Rica; and the Four Seasons Costa Rica Peninsula Papagayo — are excellent options for those seeking sun and adventure.
The Gilded Iguana is designed by and for surfers and outdoor lovers. The hotel is in one of Earth’s five Blue Zones, offering fresh, locally sourced foods and some of the cleanest air on the planet.
The Four Seasons is on the Peninsula Papagayo, a 1,400-acre resort community with 15 miles of coast and 31 expansive beaches. The area is known for its adventure experiences, including tree-climbing, zip-lining, biking trails and opportunities to get close to wildlife like iguanas and monkeys.
The St. Barths movement
St. Barths is emerging as a hot spot for the “hotcation” trend, where travelers seek warm-weather getaways during fall and winter. According to Virtuoso’s 2024 Trend Report, travel to St. Barths is up 155%, with the island benefiting from expanded airline routes and increased wellness tourism — which has grown 52% annually across the Caribbean islands.
Le Carl Gustaf is a luxury boutique property nestled on a hillside of Gustavia overlooking St. Barths and is home to 21 suites, a loft and five-bedroom villa. From the hotel, guests can take in the sights of the luxurious yachts and boats parked in the harbor.
The property is home to two exceptional dining options: Beefbar, an international food and beverage brand created by Riccardo Giraudi; and the Shellona Beach Club, which showcases beachside Mediterranean cuisine. Not to miss is an intimate spa experience at the Spa Diane Barrière, which is famous for its innovative facials and skin care brands.
For a secluded, family-friendly experience, Cheval Blanc St-Barth is positioned right on one of the island's top beaches, Flamands Bay. The maison, as it is fondly known, is part of the LVMH portfolio. It is home to 61 rooms, suites and villas — including its five-bedroom residence, Villa de France; a spa; and two restaurants, including its signature fine-dining experience, La Case, by Executive Chef Jean Imbert.
And for travelers who prefer a private villa to a hotel experience, Le Barth Villa rental offers a family retreat collection with charming and lively villas, featuring 24/7 concierge services, private round-trip transfers, daily delivered breakfasts and luxury welcome amenities.