The first snowflakes of the season can often be a welcome sight. But midwestern winters inevitably start to feel long, and a getaway can be the perfect way to break up the monotony of January and February. If you’re looking for a post-holiday escape this winter, we tapped travel expert Kendra Thornton of Royal Travel & Tours for some suggestions. Thornton is president of the luxury travel agency, which has been a fixture on Chicago’s North Shore for over 45 years. Here are a few of her recommendations:
Post Ranch Inn – Big Sur, California
Situated along the iconic Highway One on the cliffs of Big Sur, the Post Ranch Inn offers visitors a retreat unlike any other. According to Thornton, the Inn’s many yoga classes and guided meditations provide a great way to reenergize the mind, body and spirit. She added that, in addition to breathtaking views, the resort is known for its luxury spa treatments and award-winning dining at Sierra Mar, which also serves up spectacular ocean sunsets. The Inn features a unique selection of suites and houses – even a freestanding luxury tree house perched over the surrounding forest.
Little Palm Island Resort & Spa – Little Torch Key, Florida
If you’re in search of higher temperatures, Little Palm Island Resort & Spa provides the perfect dose of winter warmth. Thornton noted that the resort is located in the Florida Keys, practically guaranteeing beautiful weather any time of year. Luxury bungalows, pristine white sand beaches and snorkeling in the turquoise waters of the Atlantic are just some of the benefits of this remote paradise.
Miraval Arizona – Tucson, Arizona
Thanks to a recent renovation, the Miraval Arizona is more exceptional than ever and is the quintessential wellness getaway. A full-service spa, pool, daily wellness activities and locally sourced “conscious cuisine” contribute to a laid-back environment that encourages visitors to unplug and recharge. Guests can experience a range of activities including fitness and nutrition classes as well as off-site hikes and mountain biking.
Montage Big Sky – Big Sky, Montana
If you fancy yourself a ski bunny, Montage Big Sky is the place to be – and be seen. Open for less than a year, the resort is flanked by the Spanish Peaks mountain range and offers ski in/ski out access to the fresh powder and stunning views of Lone Mountain. Emblematic of the Montage collection, the expansive 11,000-square-foot spa features an array of treatments as well as relaxation lounges, heated plunge pools and steam rooms.
Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch – Beaver Creek, Colorado
For more adventures on the slopes, Ritz-Carlton Bachelor Gulch offers unparalleled luxury in Beaver Creek. In addition to ski in/ski out privileges, the resort utilizes its surroundings in everything from regional microbrews in the gastropub to the activated charcoal used in the spa’s signature Miner’s Mineral Mud Wrap. Ice skating, snowmobiling and snowshoe hikes can also be had in this Rocky Mountain wonderland.
