All-Inclusive Winter Resorts

Full-Board vs. Half-Board

Understanding the difference between full-board and half-board accommodations is key to making the most of your winter escape. Full-board typically includes all meals, snacks and drinks, ensuring you're pampered throughout your stay. On the other hand, half-board provides meals (usually breakfast and dinner), leaving room for exploration and dining adventures outside the resort.

Explore My Curated List:

Eleven's Deplar Farm

Location: Iceland

Description: Amid the rugged beauty of the Troll Peninsula in northern Iceland, Deplar Farm is a winter sanctuary intricately connected with its surrounding landscape. This resort seamlessly blends traditional Icelandic charm with modern luxury, offering a haven for those seeking adventure and relaxation. Deplar Farm hosts a yearly Iceland Wellness Retreat in January, inviting guests to embark on a journey of rejuvenation and self-discovery Its design reflects Nordic influences, featuring cozy interiors with fur throws and contemporary furnishings.

Unique Features: Private access to heli-skiing, Northern Lights viewing and geothermal spa experiences. The restaurant, "Aurora Borealis," serves Icelandic delicacies.

Inclusions: Gourmet meals, guided activities such as snowmobiling and sea kayaking, and a cozy retreat in the Icelandic wilderness. Deplar Farm ensures an immersive experience with expert guides leading each activity. Full board: Chef-prepared breakfast, lunch, après, and dinner.

Best Suited For: Adventure seekers and nature enthusiasts looking for a secluded winter escape. Great for group trips.

Eleven's Chalet Perlerin & Chalet Hibou

Location: French Alps

Description: Tucked amid the majestic French Alps, Eleven's Chalet Perlerin & Chalet Hibou redefine alpine luxury. These exclusive chalets provide an intimate and opulent setting with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc, offering an unparalleled winter retreat. There are no other guests during your stay, just the surrounding local village and the accommodating Eleven staff. The chalets boast a blend of classic alpine architecture and modern elegance, creating a cozy yet sophisticated ambiance.

Unique Features: Private helipad, personalized skiing experiences, and world-class culinary delights. The chalets have their own spa, Montagne Tranquille.

Inclusions: Guided helicopter skiing, curated adventures like ice climbing and snowshoeing, and bespoke services by a private chef. Full board: Chef-prepared breakfast, lunch, après, and dinner.

Best Suited For: Travelers seeking intimate and exclusive luxury in the heart of the French Alps.

Eleven's Rio Palena Lodge

Location: Patagonia, Chile

Description: Set against the stunning backdrop of Patagonia, Eleven's Rio Palena Lodge is a hidden gem offering a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Surrounded by pristine wilderness, this lodge invites you to experience the untouched beauty of one of the last frontiers. The lodge's architecture reflects Patagonian influences, with wood and stone elements seamlessly blending into the landscape. If you’re itching for some early powder on the slopes, their winter season is from mid-September to late October.

Unique Features: Fly-fishing excursions, heli-skiing, and authentic Patagonian cuisine. The lodge's spa, Rio Tranquilo, offers panoramic views.

Inclusions: Guided activities like kayaking and heli-skiing, gourmet dining, and personalized experiences in the Chilean wilderness. Charter flights from Puerto Varas to Palena, and roundtrip airport transfers from Chaitén and Palena. Full board: Chef-prepared breakfast, lunch, après, and dinner, including one Asado dinner; House alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.

Best Suited For: Outdoor enthusiasts seeking a remote and immersive winter experience.

Hotel Portillo at Ski Portillo

Location: Chile

Description: Ski Portillo Chile is a legendary destination for winter sports enthusiasts, known for its unparalleled skiing and snowboarding opportunities. Nestled in the Andes Mountains, this resort provides a thrilling escape for those seeking the ultimate winter adventure. The design features classic alpine aesthetics, with cozy common areas and rooms overlooking the slopes.

Unique Features: World-class ski slopes, vibrant apres-ski scene, and stunning mountain views. The resort's main restaurant, "Alto," offers Chilean and international cuisine.

Inclusions: Ski passes, gourmet meals, and access to diverse winter activities. Full board: four meals a day; extensive wine list.

Best Suited For: Ski and snowboard enthusiasts (foodies and wine connoisseurs too!) looking for a lively resort in a South American winter paradise.

Triple Creek Ranch

Location: Montana, USA

Description: Tucked away in the mountains of Montana, Triple Creek Ranch offers a sophisticated winter retreat for adults seeking tranquility and romance. This Adults-only, all-inclusive resort provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and luxurious comfort. The ranch-style design features log cabins with western-inspired decor and panoramic views of the snow-covered landscapes.

Unique Features: Private log cabins, horse-drawn sleigh rides and award-winning cuisine. The spa, Bitterroot, offers rejuvenating treatments.

Inclusions: Gourmet dining, curated activities like horseback riding, dogsledding, and wine tasting, and cozy accommodations with personalized amenities. Full board: All meals; House wine, spirits and beer.

Best Suited For: Couples desiring a romantic winter getaway in the American West.

Alpine Falls Ranch

Location: British Columbia, Canada

Description: Alpine Falls Ranch is a secluded winter haven in the Canadian Rockies, offering an exclusive escape into nature's embrace. Surrounded by pristine forests and snow-capped mountains, the ranch provides a cozy and intimate setting. The design emphasizes log cabin aesthetics, with spacious interiors and stunning views from every window.

Unique Features: Private cabins, heli-skiing adventures, and Canadian-inspired culinary experiences. The ranch's spa, Mountain Serenity, provides relaxation amid nature. Offered Glamping Experience for those who want to sleep under the stars.

Inclusions: Guided adventures, gourmet meals, and private cabin accommodations. Full board.

Best Suited For: Nature enthusiasts seeking an exclusive and immersive winter experience. Great for large groups.

Vista Verde Guest Ranch

Location: Colorado, USA

Description: Vista Verde Guest Ranch offers a quintessential Colorado winter experience, blending luxury with the charm of a Western ranch. This all-inclusive resort invites guests to immerse themselves in the beauty of the Rocky Mountains. The design features a mix of rustic elegance and modern amenities, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Unique Features: Private cabins, snowshoeing excursions, weekly cooking and photography classes, and farm-to-table dining experiences. The ranch's spa, Tranquil Trails, offers relaxation with mountain views.

Inclusions: Personalized activities, gourmet cuisine, and cozy cabin accommodations. Full board.

Best Suited For: Families and couples seeking an authentic, rustic ranch experience in a picturesque winter setting; For those who want to try it all.

Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido

Location: Hokkaido, Japan

Description: Club Med Tomamu Hokkaido is a winter paradise in Japan, offering an immersive blend of Japanese culture and world-class hospitality. Nestled in the powder snow region of Hokkaido, this resort provides a haven for families and winter sports enthusiasts. The design incorporates modern Japanese aesthetics, with sleek lines and minimalist interiors.

Unique Features: Ski-in/ski-out access, traditional Japanese onsen, and diverse family-friendly activities. The resort's main restaurant, Haku, serves international and Japanese cuisine.

Inclusions: Ski passes, family-oriented activities, and access to the on-site wellness facilities. Full board.

Best Suited For: Families and couples seeking a mix of adventure and cultural exploration.

Club Med Valmorel Chalets, French Alps

Location: French Alps

Description: Club Med Valmorel Chalets offer a luxurious alpine retreat, combining the charm of traditional chalets with modern comfort. Located in the heart of the French Alps, these chalets provide an intimate and upscale setting for winter enthusiasts. The design showcases classic alpine architecture with wooden elements and contemporary furnishings.

Unique Features: Private chalets, ski butlers, and panoramic mountain views. The chalets feature a private chef for personalized dining experiences.

Inclusions: Ski passes, gourmet dining, and personalized services. Full board.

Best Suited For: Families and groups looking for a balanced mix of adventure and relaxation; socializing in the French Alps at a larger resort.

Club Med Beidahu

Location: China

Description: Club Med Beidahu is a hidden gem in the snowy landscapes of China, offering an all-inclusive winter experience like no other. Surrounded by pristine mountains, this resort provides a perfect blend of modern comfort and traditional Chinese hospitality. The design incorporates a harmonious blend of contemporary elements and local aesthetics, creating a welcoming and cozy atmosphere.

Unique Features: Ski-in/ski-out access, traditional Chinese hot springs, and a range of family-friendly activities. The resort's main restaurant, Jade Dragon, offers a delightful culinary journey.

Inclusions: Ski passes, family-oriented activities, and access to the on-site wellness facilities. Full board.

Best Suited For: Winter sports enthusiasts and families looking for a memorable escape in a Chinese winter paradise.

Bärenhotel

Location: Italy

Description: Bärenhotel, nestled in the Dolomite region, offers a charming winter retreat with a perfect blend of traditional comfort. The resort provides an idyllic setting for those seeking relaxation, outdoor adventures and hospitality. The design reflects Alpine influences, featuring cozy interiors with wooden accents and a warm color palette.

Unique Features: Alpine spa, traditional Italian/Austrian cuisine and panoramic views of the Tyrolean Alps. The resort's main restaurant, "Edelweiss," showcases regional specialties and changes with the seasons.

Inclusions: Spa access, gourmet meals and a variety of winter activities. Half board: Breakfast and a four to five-course gourmet menu.

Best Suited For: Couples and travelers seeking an authentic winter experience in the Dolomites.

Alpin Panorama Hotel Hubertus

Location: Italy

Description: Discover the beauty of the Dolomites at Alpin Panorama Hotel Hubertus in Italy. This winter haven combines modern luxury with alpine charm, providing a serene escape for those seeking a unique Italian winter experience. The design harmonizes contemporary elegance with traditional Tyrolean elements, creating a cozy and sophisticated atmosphere.

Unique Features: Sky pool, wellness experiences, and panoramic views of the Dolomites. The hotel's main restaurant, "Panorama," offers a culinary journey through regional and international cuisines.

Inclusions: Spa access, gourmet dining, and a variety of winter activities. Half board: Breakfast, afternoon snack, and a five to six-course gourmet menu.

Best Suited For: Couples and wellness enthusiasts looking for an Italian winter retreat.

Hotel Hermitage Cervinia

Location: Italy

Description: Hotel Hermitage Cervinia offers a luxurious winter retreat at the foot of the Matterhorn in Italy. The resort seamlessly blends alpine elegance with modern comfort, providing an ideal setting for a memorable winter escape. The design incorporates classic alpine motifs with contemporary furnishings, creating an atmosphere of timeless sophistication.

Unique Features: Ski-in/ski-out access, gourmet dining, and stunning views of the Matterhorn. The hotel's restaurant, "Hermitage Gourmet," serves Italian and international delicacies.

Inclusions: Ski passes, wellness experiences, and a range of winter activities. Half board.

Best Suited For: Ski enthusiasts and those seeking a sophisticated Italian winter experience.

2024 might offer the most spectacular auroras in two decades! The previous solar cycle peak was relatively subdued, making this upcoming display highly anticipated. Don't miss out on this rare opportunity to witness the Northern Lights at their most brilliant. Iceland will be a top spot to view. Reach out early and let's start planning your winter escape to one of these enchanting resorts.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Iceland. In need of further inspiration? Check out Katie Anderson’s guide, All-Inclusive Ski Packages.