Remote and luxurious ski resorts

Alta's Rustler Lodge, Alta Ski Area, Utah
Hidden away in Little Cottonwood Canyon, Alta is the ski land where time stands still. Instead of sky-rise hotels and flashy new condos competing with the breathtaking mountain scenery, guests find a handful of rustic, comfortable lodges. Beginning in 1939 using an old ore tram from its mining days, Alta has pulled nearly four generations of skiers up to its ridges. It is also one of the last resorts to hold onto its skiing roots and prohibit snowboarders, which makes this resort decidedly less crowded. Those who long for a less hurried, more communal skiing experience can explore 2,200 acres of terrain, then swap tales around woodsy bars and roaring fires with kindred spirits.

Alta's Rustler Lodge is rich in colors and textures with the inviting feeling of home. The elegant restaurant and bar have picture windows spectacular killer views of the sunset over the canyon peaks. A sumptuous breakfast and a gourmet dinner accompanied by live dinner music are part of the package. Everything is all-inclusive. For those who like hot chocolate and latte breaks, munchies such as fondue for apres-ski, or even warm milk for the kids at bedtime, this is the place to stay. The lodge has an outdoor heated pool and hot tub, plus a eucalyptus steam room, workout room and a full-service spa.

Lizard Creek Lodge, Fernie Alpine Resort, British Columbia, Canada
Tucked into the craggy Lizard Range of the Canadian Rockies, several hours from civilization, Fernie caters to those who come for the allure of the mountain. The remote and colorful village, rebuilt in 1910 after several fires, now sports buildings of brick and stone. Into this rugged and rustic mining community, the new slopeside village brings a touch of luxury only steps from the ski trails.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Outlook Cabin Parlour

The riverstone-and-log Lizard Creek Lodge, is Fernie's crown jewel. Just steps away from a chairlift, yet secluded. Each unit has a fully equipped kitchen plus gas fireplace and balcony. Oversized leather chairs or couches in the lounge are the perfect spot to watch the evening alpenglow. Relax in the outdoor heated pool or 20-person hot tub. Luxuriate in the steam room or day spa. Enjoy Canadian mountain gourmet meals beside soaring riverstone fireplace.

The Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge, Marmot Basin, Alberta, Canada
Three hours north of the hustle of Banff and four hours west of Edmonton, Jasper is about as remote as it gets when it comes to skiing and snowboarding. Jasper National Park is filled with majestic elk and the call of Canadian geese swooping over Lac Beauvert fills the air. Nearby Marmot Basin provides skiing and snowboarding for every level of hearty sportsperson. These are mountain trails at their basic best and spreading untamed, ungroomed bowls that can challenge anyone.

In this rustic, remote and simple region, the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge lends royal elegance.  Visited by King George VI and Queen Elizabeth in 1939, it is set on 900 acres of heaven. Traditional log cabins from the 1920s and cedar chalets with spacious modern suites are all elegantly rustic and sensuous. The older buildings have been renovated and are thoroughly modern in the areas that count, such as bathrooms. Everything is linked by pathways along Lac Beauvert to the main building, which is more like a grand hunting lodge and houses all the restaurants, night spots and shops, plus a hair salon and massage studio.

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