Ain't No Mountain High Enough: 7 Romantic Hotels in the Mountains
We've all heard the song, but these seven gorgeous properties imbue it with new meaning. Rather than traversing mountains, rivers, and valleys to get to your sweetheart, we heartily recommend making that journey together -- because it's really hard to top a romantic getaway snuggled up in a cozy mountain cabin or ski chalet. From the Italian Alps to the Colorado Rockies, these mountaintop destinations will take your breath away. (And not just because of the thin oxygen at these altitudes.)
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Hotel Hohenwart, South Tyrol Province, Italy
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Spring Creek Ranch, Jackson Hole
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Resort at Squaw Creek, Lake Tahoe, California
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Viceroy Snowmass, Aspen
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Nita Lake Lodge, Whistler
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Hotel del Oso, Spain
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Trapp Family Lodge, Vermont
This upscale resort in the mountainous South Tyrol Province of Northern Italy has charming chalet style (reflective of the region's Austro-Bavarian heritage) and an impressive spa. There are three lovely pools as well, including a gorgeous saltwater glass pool on the hotel's rooftop with postcard-perfect mountain views. Rooms vary, but some have a modern take on alpine style with lots of natural wood. The restaurant serves a blend of Alpine and Mediterranean fare, and uses cheeses, herbs, honey, smoked sausages, and meat from nearby farms. It's a wonderful romantic pick for outdoorsy couples looking to hike or ski in the surrounding region.
Couples looking for a room with a view can't do much better in Jackson Hole than Spring Creek Ranch, which is set in a wildlife refuge more than 700 feet above the Jackson Valley; it arguably has the most stunning views of the Tetons in the area. The delicious restaurant, lovely heated outdoor pool, renowned Wilderness Adventure Spa, and lodge-like rooms (some more upscale than others) help make this an attractive pick among couples.
With over 400 rooms, the Resort at Squaw Creek may not be intimate, but it has gorgeous views of the mountain and valley. Couples won't lack for fun date activities here, as the property offers everything from golf to ice skating. Rooms have stone fireplaces and some have kitchens, for couples looking to spend a cozy night in; those who'd rather have a romantic evening out can choose from five different restaurants on-site. There's a lift directly to the slopes here as well, and couples can unwind in the hot tubs and year-round heated pool after skiing.
The Viceroy Snowmass in Aspen's Snowmass Village seems designed for romantic cuddling -- by the big fire pit adjacent to the heated saline pool, by the fire in the warm, wood-paneled lobby bar, and in the cozy, mountain-chic rooms, many with fireplaces of their own. The spa has a stunning relaxation area where guests can also unwind. Couples looking to hit the slopes will appreciate the ski-in, ski-out location and ski valet service.
This romantic resort feels far from the busy, touristy parts of Whistler, thanks to its location right on Nita Lake, but it's still just a short walk from the restaurants and attractions in Creekside. Couples are sure to appreciate the relaxing views and sophisticated suites with fireplaces, soaking tubs, and balconies. The stunning restaurant serves organic gourmet fare.
This gorgeous luxury hotel at the foot of the Pico de Europa Mountains has lodge-like, cozy rooms (with mountain views from some balconies), and a popular restaurant serving tasty Cantabrian cuisine. The hotel is housed in two stone buildings designed to look like the traditional homes in the area, and there is tasteful lodge decor with lots of pine inside -- as well as a grizzly bear theme ("oso" means "bear" in Spanish). It's a lovely, secluded escape for couples looking to soak up some natural beauty and enjoy nearby outdoor activities in the mountains.
This hotel will help you understand what Julie Andrews was singing about -- the hills really are alive at this charming mountain lodge near the slopes in Stowe, Vermont. It's still owned and run by the actual von Trapp family (yes, they are real) whose ancestors' story inspired "The Sound of Music." Cottage-style rooms are cozy enough, but not the highlight; instead, couples will likely most appreciate the tastings at the on-site brewery, dining at the three restaurants, and outdoor hot tub --where they can watch the mist roll in over the valley below.