Opulent Winter Retreats: Luxury accommodations in Japan, New Zealand and Europe
Come winter many will be seeking out places of warmth to stave off the cold but for those who love to venture out in the snow, Mr & Mrs Smith have put together a list of luxurious options for the whole family
Looking to experience a winter-wonderland holiday in serious style this year? Travel experts Mr & Mrs Smith have compiled a list of their favourite Haute-hotels for a truly luxurious winter retreat. From skiing some of the world’s finest slopes to winding down with an after-hours Glühwein in front of a cosy fireplace, each of these exquisite hideaways makes for an unforgettable snow-set escape.
AMANGANI, Jackson Hole, United States
Set at the foot of the dramatic Teton range, this three-storey sweep of sandstone and redwood is one of the Rocky Mountain’s most memorable stays. In winter, it’s the ideal base for skiing the snow-packed slopes of Jackson Hole, with the mountain resort boasting more than 1,000 hectares of ski routes. Amangani will shuttle guests to and from its private ski lounge where you can hire kit, arrange lessons and plan your day on the slopes. Snowshoeing and snowmobiling can also be arranged, as can horse-drawn sleigh rides through the National Elk Refuge.
Smith extra: Breakfast for two on each day of your stay
Click here for more information on Amangani.
ZABORIN, Niseko, Japan
Japan is famous for its discreet elegance, and you can see why at hotels like the heavenly Zaborin on Japan’s northernmost island. Nothing is too in-your-face, but as soon as you look for it, everything you need is right there. For instance, your secluded villa – one of 15 and on the doorstep of some of Asia’s finest ski slopes – has its own indoor and outdoor onsen bath filled with the purest, most soothing volcanic water. Soak here after a day of skiing, drink in the restorative meadow and forest views, and try to resist the urge to compose a life-affirming haiku.
Smith extra: A bottle of local sake from Niseko brewery
Click here, for more information on Zaborin
MATAKAURI LODGE, Queenstown, New Zealand
Just seven minutes’ drive from New Zealand’s adventure capital, you’ll find jaw-dropping Queenstown hotel Matakauri Lodge. With 11 luxurious rooms – all with majestic mountain and lake views – this boutique beauty is blessed with flawless natural assets. Immaculate service, uncontrived dining and light-filled interiors by Virginia Fisher add to the wow factor. For those seeking the thrills and spills of skiing, the snowfields are open June–October, with six outstanding ski areas just a short drive from the lodge.
Smith extra: A gourmet picnic hamper for two
Click here, for more information on Matakauri Lodge.
PORTETTA, Courchevel, France
Portetta hotel takes all the charms of the forest and pitches them on the piste: expect sparkly service, effortless style and tasty food, as well as an enviable ski-in, ski-out setting and magical mountain sights. Make sure to book a Piste View room – perfectly placed not only for stunning vistas but spectacular sunrises, thanks to their perch in the sunniest patch of Courchevel. The bar is open all day for vin chauds by the fire, cocktails and, at certain times, live music. There’s also the outdoor Fire & Ice bar, lit by flaming torches and decorated with fur.
Smith extra: A bottle of Savoie wine
Click here, for more information on Portetta.
DUNTON HOT SPRINGS, San Juan Mountains, United States
Buried in rural and rocky Colorado, Dunton Hot Springs hotel is a mountain-surrounded former mining town, reincarnated in boutique cabin form. The old village Dance Hall, Bath House and Saloon are part of this unique retreat, where soothing springs, awe-inspiring mountains and a winding river make up the great outdoors. Each cabin is cosily kitted out with heated slate floors, unique bath tubs and hand-picked antiques, but we especially love the spacious Well House for its open-plan, romantic vibe and private hot springs. When not basking in the great outdoors, there’s a yoga studio, library, climbing wall and a boxing gym.
Smith extra: An in-cabin dinner for two and a bottle of wine from the hotel’s Sutcliffe Vineyards. SilverSmiths will also get a gift shop credit of $200. GoldSmiths will also receive a gift shop credit of $200 and a Sutcliffe Vineyards Tour with lunch and transfers
Click here, for more information on Dunton Hot Springs.
CHALET ZERMATT PEAK, Switzerland
You can ask for nothing better than the luxurious accommodation known as Chalet Zermatt Peak. With the Matterhorn and village in clear view, this would be the perfect location to enjoy some fun in the snow thanks to the slopes that provide guests with the perfect playground for winter sports such as skiing and ice climbing. A stay at the exclusive chalet includes guests having their very own chalet manager, concierge and their very own gourmet chef. This is how you define luxury, up in the mountains.
Click here for more information on Chalet Zermatt Peak.
With Mr & Mrs Smith you’ll enjoy our best-price guarantee, as well as a little something extra on arrival at every hotel. To book, call toll free at 800 905 326 or visit mrandmrssmith.com.