Three winter getaways with chills, thrills, and lots of spa time
Words by SAMANTHA BROOKS
TAYLOR RIVER LODGE is a remote, off-grid location near Crested Butte that includes a network of remote cabins framed by big sky, towering pine trees, and sheer granite cliffs. PHOTO: Alison White.
Taylor River Lodge, Colorado
TAYLOR RIVER LODGE, the sister property to the Scarp Ridge Lodge, is only a 30-minute drive down Crested Butte ski mountain. But even die-hard downhill skiers should not overlook the cozy bliss to be found on the riverbank. Set within a valley in Almont, the eight-acre retreat comprises six one-bedroom cabins, each featuring steam showers and traditional lodge décor (three of which also have lofted areas with twin beds), as well as two single-family homes. After a day of snowshoeing or Nordic skiing, slide into the saltwater pool in the converted barn before an evening of cabin pursuits, from shooting pool to playing darts, before dining by the oversize stone fireplace in the lodge. elevenexperience.com.
MONTAGE BIG SKY is located in the Spanish Peaks mountain range. PHOTO: Courtesy of Montage Big Sky.
Montage Big Sky, Montana
From dogsledding to snowmobiling to a guided safari through Yellowstone, MONTAGE BIG SKY has a host of winter pursuits that don’t require a lift ticket (it is located within 5,800 acres of ski terrain in the Spanish Peaks mountain range). To refuel, guests can choose from six culinary outlets, including the Italian-inspired Cortina and Backcast après ski bar and grill — all of which use local river fish and wild game in their menus. Accommodations cater to groups, with a new six-bedroom residence that features two fireplaces and stunning mountain views. But all suites come complete with a soothing stone-clad soaking tub, roaring fire, and wet bar. montage.com/bigsky.com.
AMANGIRI’s serene minimalist pool is built around an imposing boulder, with sweeping views of wild desert landscape all around it. PHOTO: Ken Hayden.
Amangiri, Utah
With a barren landscape of sandstone formations that look straight out of Mars, the AMANGIRI resort is as remote as it gets. In addition to 34 suites, it has recently added the luxury tented Camp Sarika to its accommodations in which 10 canvas-topped pavilions feature their own plunge pool. In the winter, there are plenty of outdoor activities to immerse you in the surrounds. On your doorstep lie the property’s 12 miles of hiking trails and horseback rides along ridge tops and through a maze of canyons. Afterward you can revive yourself at the property’s spa with a Nourishing facial and a Purifying body wrap. aman.com.
Feature image: MONTAGE BIG SKY is located in the Spanish Peaks mountain range. PHOTO: Courtesy of Montage Big Sky.
This story originally appeared in the Winter 2023/2024 issue of C Magazine.
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