Gimme 5: Ski & Spa ResortsGimme 5: Ski & Spa Resorts

By Neil English

What could be better than following a hard day on the slopes with a muscle-soothing soak in a piping hot outdoor whirlpool followed by a massage?

Spoilt for choice in BreckenridgeSpoilt for choice in Breckenridge

Breckenridge

Who can do it? Skiers and boarders of all abilities!

Let's go! More British skiers visit Breckenridge than any other Colorado resort. This cocktail of varied, high altitude ski terrain, excellent snow, handsome Victorian town adorned with festive lights all winter season, together with spa on the patio of the ski-in/ski-out Beaver Run Resort Hotel complete with two hot tubs, a therapy pool and amazing mountain views, is clearly irresistible.

Top Tip: Head for Skin Deep Studio in town offering custom-created skincare to counter this unusually high altitude resort at 9,600 feet.

Banff and Lake Louise -a major resort in a National ParkBanff and Lake Louise -a major resort in a National Park

Ski Canada

Who can do it?Nature lovers and mixed groups

Let's go! With three ski areas amidst stunning scenery it's little wonder this is Western Canada's most popular resort. Factor in two superb hotels - the Fairmont Chateau Lake Louise and Fairmont Banff Springs, and their opulent spas and the combo is tough to beat.

Top tips: For an extra outdoor spa adventure try the Banff Upper Hot Springs at sunset overlooking Mount Rundle.

Picturesque Stowe makes the heart swoonPicturesque Stowe makes the heart swoon

Stowe

Who can do it? Couples will love the New England charm

Let's go!Quaint red and white clapboard buildings surround the gleaming white steepled church in the centre of this idyllic Vermont resort which nestles amongst pine and birch forests. The backdrop of ski trails on Mount Mansfield, Vermont's highest peak at 4,393 feet, makes this a sought after gem in the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. Little wonder the Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa hotel is such a romantic destination.

Top tips: Book a Stowflake Private Couple's Spa Suite with log fire, aromatherapy bath and twin tables for simultaneous candle-lit massages.

Grown up fun at Lake TahoeGrown up fun at Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe

Who can do it? Bet on adults loving it!

Let's go! With giant 24-hour casinos just over the Nevada border, a near 5,000 acre ski resort living up to its name of Heavenly on your doorstep, stunning views over Lake Tahoe and the sumptuous outdoor pools and spa treatment areas in the splendid Marriot Grand Residence Club, this is truly California dreaming.

Top tip: Don't overdo it in the Marriot's state-of-the-art fitness centre - save energy for the mountain views from the two outdoor hot tubs!

Indulge your senses in AspenIndulge your senses in Aspen

Aspen

Who can do it? Anyone who enjoys decadence

Let's go! Where comfort food is French Fries topped with white truffle shavings (Junk eaterie in Red Onion building), no less than four ski mountains spoil you for choice, art galleries outnumber Prada style shops and the predominate boutique hotel is called Sky, Aspen surely sets the hedonism limit. The stunning Aspen Club and Spa is the place to relax. It's a private club, but residents at Sky are eligible for day membership.

Top tips: While lounging on the Sky Hotel's terrace round the outdoor pool and hot tub, order the Botox Martini, it comes with two cherries, one wrinkled, the other flawless!

If hitting the slopes in North America seems like the perfect winter holiday for you, check out the latest VHOT DEALS Ski deals.

Neil English is a freelance travel journalist who specialises in skiing. He regularly writes for the Daily Mail and the Mail on Sunday.

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