Many of the world's most spectacular mountain resorts are also popular ski destinations, but most of them also tend to draw off-season crowds to enjoy beautiful landscapes and spring, summer and autumn activities such as hiking and mountain biking. If you want to combine a trip to the mountains with a little, or a lot, of R & R and the best of luxury services, one of these resorts is sure to fit the bill.
Credit: vigilius.comVigilius Mountain Resort, South Tyrol, ItalyVigilius Mountain Resort, South Tyrol, Italy
Vigilius Mountain Resort, South Tyrol, Italy (Prices and photos)
Located in the northernmost region of Italy, Vigilius Mountain Resort in South Tyrol is an ideal place to escape the stress of the modern world. To get there, you will have to travel by cable car as the resort is car-free. This eco-friendly mountain hut offers breathtaking views of the Dolomites and also houses a 13th century church, adding to the particularly romantic setting. Explore bubbling springs and pristine forests, then return to the wellness centre for treatments using the fresh Vigiljoch Springs water, believed to have healing powers.
Credit: oberoihotels.comWildflower HallWildflower Hall
Wildflower Hall, Himalayan Mountains near Shimla, India (prices and photos)
Set in a setting virtually untouched by humans, Wildflower Hall in the Himalayas is a mountaintop resort that will make you feel as if you have stepped into the pages of a fairy tale. Inside, you will find antique furniture, wood paneling and original artwork for an old world atmosphere, along with magnificent views of endless forests and snow-capped mountains. Spend your days participating in activities such as river rafting or trekking, and in the evenings indulge in holistic treatments in private spa suites - all with the same extraordinary views.
Credit: facebook.com Nira Alpina, SwitzerlandNira Alpina, Switzerland
Nira Alpina, Switzerland (Prices & Photos)
Nira Alpina, located in the town of Silvaplana in Switzerland's Engadine valley, offers beautiful views of Lake Silvaplana and rooms with a large terrace or balcony and panoramic windows with mountain views. The interiors feature natural materials such as Swiss spruce and Italian stone, as well as high-tech amenities such as a flat-screen TV, iPod docking station and free Wi-Fi. The beautiful granite bathroom includes a waterfall shower and a deep-soaking bath. It is ideal for winter skiing and summer hiking.
Credit: sparklinghill.comSparkling Hill Resort, Vernon, British ColumbiaSparkling Hill Resort, Vernon, British Columbia
Sparkling Hill Resort, Vernon, British Columbia (Prices and photos)
Sparkling Hill Resort is known as one of the best mountain resorts on the planet with an elegant décor and a setting of unsurpassed natural beauty. More than 3.5 million crystals sparkle in the elegant architecture, nestled in the mountains overlooking Lake Okanagon. Enjoy the stunning indoor views from the resort's swimming pool with a starry Swarovski crystal sky or from the floor-to-ceiling windows in your room. Guests have exclusive access to the seven exclusive aromatherapy saunas and crystal steam room, a meditation room with water dripping into a crystal basin, Tea & Serenity relaxation rooms and more.
Credit: facebook.com Mirrow Lake Inn Resort and Spa, Lake PlacidMirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa, Lake Placid
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa, Lake Placid, New York (rates and photos)
Mirror Lake Inn Resort and Spa in Lake Placid, New York, is a luxurious lakeside resort with a cosy, casual atmosphere. In 2014, Condé Nast named it the number one resort in the northeast, and it is frequently featured on lists of the world's best hotels. In summer, soak up the sun on a sandy beach and paddle in the water in free canoes, kayaks or rowboats. During the winter months, put on free snowshoes and make new tracks in the snow or glide across the lake on the ice rink. After a long day's play, no matter the season, enjoy incredible cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients in the four-diamond restaurant and indulge in one or more of the latest customised treatments at the luxurious spa.
Credit: starwoodhotels.comSt. Regis Lhasa Resort
St. Regis Lhasa Resort, Lhasa, Tibet (Prices and photos)
The St. Regis Lhasa Resort offers unparalleled views of the Himalayas and Polata Palace and architecture that reflects Tibetan elegance and simplicity. Its Gold Energy Pool is a bejewelled pool like no other, overlooking the surrounding valley for the ultimate in relaxation. Enjoy an invigorating foot massage and fantastic food and drink right by the pool. You can even ask the resort driver to take you on a guided tour of Mount Everest or the ancient Yunbulakang Palace, a monastery more than 600 years old. If you have trouble sleeping, indulge in a two-hour 'Deep Sleep Treatment' at the spa that includes a foot-warming ritual followed by a head-to-toe massage with essential oils known for their intense calming and grounding effects.
Credit: facebook.com The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado
The Little Nell, Aspen, Colorado (Prices and photos)
The Little Nell is the most luxurious resort in the resort town of Aspen, known as one of the most beautiful mountain destinations in the world. It was one of only six properties in the Rocky Mountain State to make it America's Best Mountain Resorts, selected by Travel-Linc readers and has received numerous other accolades.While its location is certainly a huge plus as the only hotel in the heart of Aspen with ski-to-door access, it excels in everything else, from the rooms to the food and service. The rooms feature Swank bathrooms with bathtubs and heated marble floors and gas fireplaces. Guests can also take part in a number of customised adventures directly from the property, including fly-fishing and cycling.
Credit: virginlimitededition.com Kasbah Tamadot, High Atlas Mountains Kasbah Tamadot, High Atlas Mountains
Kasbah Tamadot, High Atlas Mountains, Morocco (prices and photos)
This spectacular resort that was once the private villa of an Italian artist has been restored to its original magnificence by British business tycoon Richard Branson. Located at the foot of the High Atlas Mountains overlooking the picturesque Asni Valley, guests can swim in infinity pools and stay in luxurious Berber tents, some of which have private pools. Choose from exciting activities such as taking a mule ride through the mountains and a variety of spa treatments designed to refresh and revitalise. Enjoy dinner at the Kanoun restaurant with breathtaking terrace views and delicious local and international cuisine.
Credit: facebook.comAleyska Resort
Hotel Alyeska, Girdwood, Alaska (Prices and photos)
Hotel Alyeska is part of the Alyseska Resort, a luxurious castle-style hotel located in Alaska's Chugach Mountains, along the south-central coast, just below a famous ski mountain. Guests will discover elegant accommodation and convenient access to the spectacular Alaskan wilderness year-round. The interior blends pre-eminent comfort with modern amenities and native influences to bring the natural beauty of the great outdoors indoors. Take a refreshing dip in the saltwater pool overlooking the mountains and re-energise with a hot stone massage to relax tense muscles and release toxins.
Credit: http: //www.fourseasons.com Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, WyomingFour Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, Wyoming
Four Seasons Resort, Jackson Hole, Wyoming (Prices and photos)
The Four Seasons Resort is a ski-in/ski-out retreat located at the base of Jackson Hole Mountain, surrounded by breathtaking views of the Grand Teton Range, rich in wildlife that is sure to make it one of the most beautiful destinations in the world at any time of the year. Take an unforgettable helicopter safari, organised especially for you by the resort, to spot herds of elk, moose, bison, mountain goats and perhaps the elusive grizzly bear. Choose a room with a mountain view to admire spectacular Rendezvous Mountain sunsets right from your terrace.
Credit: topnotchresort.comTopnotch at Stowe Resort & SpaTopnotch at Stowe Resort & Spa
Topnotch at Stowe Resort & Spa, Stowe, Vermont (Prices and photos)
Topnotch was the first full resort to open in Stowe, Vermont, claiming a prime location right at the bottom of the state's highest peak, Mount Mansfield, surrounded by maple and pine trees. Come in autumn and you can enjoy hiking on hilly trails with breathtaking views of a landscape dotted with fiery reds, golden yellows and brilliant shades of orange. During the winter, while the skiing is great, the resort's 30,000-square-foot mega-spa is fantastic for soothing sore muscles after a hard day's play. The restorative path package is ideal for revitalising and restoring the body and mind, with a personalised energy healing session, Reiki or Swedish massage, an essential facial, access to all fitness classes for the day and a private yoga session.
Credit: arrabelle.rockresorts.comThe Arrabelle at Vail SquareThe Arrabelle at Vail Square
The Arrabelle at Vail Square (Prices and photos)
This luxury hotel in Vail, Colorado, sets a new standard for luxury accommodation, reflecting the romantic heritage and atmosphere of the European Alps, with architectural touches of Innsbruck, Prague and Salzburg. From the rooftop pool with breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains to the state-of-the-art Rock Resorts spa and wellness centre, rooms and suites ranging from 550 to more than 2500 square feet and endless luxury amenities such as personal butler service, grocery delivery service and ski valet, the Arrabelle is truly a first mountain resort.
Credit: ritzcarlton.com Ritz-Carlton Lake TahoeRitz-Carlton Lake Tahoe
Ritz Carlton, Lake Tahoe (Prices and photos)
The Ritz-Carlton is the cream of the cream when it comes to Tahoe resorts. It is the first and only AAA Five Diamond mountain resort in California, located in a mid-mountain location on Northstar California Mountain, offering access not only to winter sports but also to summer activities such as hiking, fly fishing, cycling and water sports - all just steps from your door This year-round luxury resort offers elegant rooms and suites with fireplaces and floor-to-ceiling windows and a 17,000-square-foot mega spa that sits on the side of the slope. Treatments focus on water and woodland and include ladies' and gentlemen's lounge areas with sauna, steam room and whirlpool. Manzanita's fine dining offers rustic California cuisine with mountain influences, while the "Marshmology" experience, including the art of S'more, around the fire pit every night is safe for both kids and teens.
Credit: salishlodge.comSalish Lodge & SpaSalish Lodge & Spa
Salish Lodge & Spa, Snoqualmie, Washington (Prices and photos)
This modern lodge sits right at the top of Snoqualmie Falls, at the foot of Western Washington's Cascade Mountain, offering a wide selection of wilderness offerings from guided bike rides to kayaking and a 'romantic concierge' who works with the resort and its guests to offer options to enhance romance. Join a Vinyasa Flow or Gentle Yoga class on the hidden terrace with an extraordinary view of the falls and indulge in a variety of spa treatments using ingredients from the Pacific Northwest. Back in your luxurious room, you can enjoy a giant Jacuzzi, curl up by the fireplace and sleep in total comfort in a bed with goose feather quilts.
Credit: explora.comSalto Chico Lodge
Explora Patagonia, Chile (Prices and photos)
This magnificent resort located in the heart of the Torres del Paine National Park, in the centre of Patagonia, sits on the banks of the Salto Chico waterfall and offers breathtaking views of the Paine Massif mountain range. Experience the authentic gaucho culture of Patagonia by taking a trip to Estancia 2 de Enero where you can watch gauchos train horses, drive cattle and shear sheep, or take your own horseback ride. Then return to the resort and soak in an outdoor hot tub overlooking the Macizo del Paine and Lake Pehoe, or treat yourself to a rejuvenating massage, complete with essential oils.
Credit: facebook.comAltapura, Val Thorens, FranceAltapura, Val Thorens, France
Altapura, Val Thorens, France (Prices and photos)
Altapura is a five-star luxury resort that radiates après-ski opulence with a warm indoor/outdoor pool and Scandinavian-style interiors accented by giant snowflake silhouettes. At 7,545 feet, it is Europe's highest ski resort and completes the world's largest ski area with 372 miles of ski slopes, ski runs and views of the six glaciers and rocky peaks of Les Trois Vallées. The multi-sensory spa focuses on nature and pleasure, combining the energies of five natural elements, including wood, fire, stone, plants and water, to enhance well-being.
Credit: zherohotelischgl.comZhero, Kappl, AustriaZhero, Kappl, Austria
Zhero, Kappl, Austria (prices and photos)
This magnificent resort is located between the southern Verwall, Samnaun and Silvretta mountain ranges. It combines maximum comfort, innovative design and world-class mountain adventures for the ultimate alpine experience. Take a refreshing dip in the 20-metre pool, the largest in the region, and choose from a wide range of classic and exotic massage therapies and treatments designed for deep relaxation. Penthouse suites include private butler service, a Jacuzzi, multiple bedrooms and bathrooms, a kitchen and more.
Credit: wikimedia.org The Majestic Yosemite HotelThe Majestic Yosemite Hotel
The Majestic Yosemite Hotel, Yosemite National Park, California (rates and photos)
One of the most scenic and popular national parks in the country, Yosemite National Park is home to the historic Ahwahnee, nestled between high cliffs and waterfalls in the Yosemite Valley. Stay here and you'll be close to the trails heading to El Capitan and Half Dome - or you can simply view this iconic landmark right from your window. While the beautiful interior mixes Art Deco and Native American influences, you'll find plenty of modern amenities, including flat-screen TVs. Stay in the Mary Curry Tresidder Suite, often referred to as 'The Queen's Room', and put your head down where Queen Elizabeth II once slept.
Credit: wikimedia.org The Fairmont Banff Springs HotelThe Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel
The Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel (Prices & Photos)
There are few hotels in the world that can rival the majesty and opulence of this famous resort in the heart of Banff National Park, which was inspired by a Scottish baronial castle. This 'Castle in the Rockies', as it is often called, has grown out of the forested Banff Valley for over 125 years, setting the standard for a luxury holiday. Just a few of the on-site experiences include golfing at two courses, indulging in an extensive treatment menu at the world-class spa, and dining at 12 restaurants and lounges. The resort also offers unique experiences, such as a course covering the combination of wine and drinks with the latest trends in party-throwing known as Extreme Entertainment, as well as customised adventures exploring the Canadian Rockies.
Credit: steinlodge.comStein Eriksen Lodge
Stein Eriksen Lodge, Deer Valley, Utah (Prices and photos)
This award-winning lodge is Forbes' only five-star hotel and spa in the state with direct access to the mid-mountain ski slopes on the slopes of Deer Valley. Each suite has its own distinct look and feel and comes complete with a hot tub to relax sore muscles after a long day of skiing or other activities, terrycloth bathrobes, a fireplace, full kitchen, and a full deck with an outdoor hot tub - perfect for gazing up at the dark night sky filled with intensely bright stars. The award-winning spa includes two couples treatment rooms with private showers, tubs and a shared relaxation room with fireplace.
Credit: badruttspalace.comBadrutt's Palace Hotel, St. Moritz, SwitzerlandBadrutt's Palace Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland
Badrutt's Palace Hotel, St. Moritz, Switzerland (prices and photos)
Head to the Swiss Alps to take in all the glamour and glitz of Switzerland's famous ski resort, St. Moritz - and there's no better place to stay than Badrutt's Palace, a historic and internationally renowned luxury hotel with exceptional views of the mountains and pristine lake. This resort has set the standard for over-the-top opulence for more than a century, with high-end spas, five-star restaurants, a private nightclub and exceptional service. Here, you will be treated like royalty with staff prepared to wait on guests hand and foot - even your pets are served only the freshest food. Rub elbows with the world's elite while taking mud baths, revitalising yourself in the stunning indoor and outdoor pools and taking part in outdoor adventures in incredible scenery.