November 21, 2016: As winter lovers countdown the days until ski season is in full swing, those who equate winter breaks with an escape to the tropics would do well not to abandon their snow-loving friends and family and, instead, explore the indulgent alternatives available at some of the world’s best independent ski chalets and resorts. From Saas-Fee and Gstaad in Switzerland to Utah in the United States, the following Preferred Hotels & Resorts properties encapsulate #ThePreferredLife by offering some of the best and most varied mountain experiences, all of which ensure that the perennial holiday question “to ski or not to ski?” brings everyone together when choosing an end-of-year getaway.
The Capra - Saas-Fee, Switzerland
Right on time for those eager to ski first tracks, this intimate alpine lodge will re-open on December 9, debuting a 10-room chalet extension, which includes a library with log fireplace, a ‘Fun Lab’ for games and movie nights, and a dedicated yoga and Pilates studio, in addition to its other suites with private balconies that look out onto the majestic Swiss Alps.
To ski: Saas-Fee is surrounded by more than a dozen peaks, including The Dom - Switzerland’s highest mountain. Active guests can enjoy downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, and snow-shoe walking tours – all in a pedestrianized zone.
Not to ski: The local area and neighboring Zermatt offer numerous guided winery tours, and foodies can avoid the snow altogether by indulging at La Locanda, the property’s destination restaurant specializing in Swiss and Italian cuisines by two Michelin-starred chef Oliver Glowig.
Rates start at USD $450 per room, per night based on double occupancy
Montage Deer Valley – Park City, Utah, USA
The ultimate family-friendly ski resort with 220 guestrooms, suites and residences, this acclaimed destination located in the snow-capped mountains of Deer Valley offers ski-in/ ski-out access to the slopes, the state’s largest spa, five dining outlets, and a traditional pub with its own bowling alley.
To ski: Skiers of all abilities have their choice of six mountains, more than 20 lifts, 100 trails and an annual 300 inches of powder. Other outdoor activities include sleigh rides and dog sledding.
Not to ski: The Après Lounge and Beach Club includes a unique outdoor ski beach and a Veuve Clicquot champagne bar, and those seeking further adventure can enjoy newly-launched hiking and biking excursions, complete with tour guide, private light aircraft flights and a gourmet lunch in one of four national parks.
Rates start at USD $490 per room, per night based on double occupancy Full day guided excursions priced at USD $8,000 for up to seven guests
The Alpina Gstaad – Gstaad, Switzerland
This renowned multi-award winning luxury resort, located on top of Oberbort with a panoramic view of the surrounding Alps, continues to surprise and delight through contemporary facilities with a traditional Swiss alpine twist. New for the 2016-2017 season, the hotel will launch a new three-bedroom Chalet Suite that is set apart from the main building for extra privacy and ideal for families and small groups, with its expansive living areas, open kitchen and dining, and private bar. To ski: Fresh for this season, the new Adrenaline and Zen package will wow even the most experienced skier with a 30-minute scenic helicopter ride, an afternoon of off-piste skiing and snowboarding with a private instructor, followed by a limousine transfer back to the hotel for a rejuvenating deep tissue treatment.
Not to ski: Not to be outdone, non-skiers can try snow biking and tobogganing on eight different runs, or for something more peaceful, the Six Senses Spa is introducing stand up paddleboard yoga & fitness classes in the indoor pool.
Rates start at USD $850 per room, per night based on double occupancy Adrenalin and Zen package is priced at USD $2,995 and includes three nights’ accommodation on B&B basis and a daily culinary credit
Guests of The Capra, The Alpina Gstaad, and Montage Deer Valley can add more benefits to their winter getaways by enrolling in the iPrefer hotel rewards program, which extends points redeemable for cash-value Reward Certificates, elite status, and special benefits such as complimentary internet upon every stay at more than 600 participating Preferred Hotels & Resorts locations worldwide.
For more information on the above properties, please visit www.PreferredHotels.com.
About Preferred Hotels & Resorts
Preferred Hotels & Resorts is the world’s largest independent hotel brand, representing more than 650 distinctive hotels, resorts, residences, and unique hotel groups across 85 countries. Through its five global collections, Preferred Hotels & Resorts connects discerning travelers to the singular luxury hospitality experience that meets their life and style preferences for each occasion. Every property within the portfolio maintains the high quality standards and unparalleled service levels required by the Preferred Hotels & Resorts Integrated Quality Assurance Program. The iPrefer™ hotel rewards program, Preferred Residences℠, Preferred Family℠, Preferred Pride℠, and Preferred Golf™ offer valuable benefits for travelers seeking a unique experience. PreferredHotels.com