Sundance Resort

Yes, that Sundance. To many minds, this is just another aspect of the multi-faceted house that Robert Redford built, and the fact that it’s a first-class ski getaway is almost secondary. But as many a proud Utahn knows, once you ski Park City, you might never bother with Aspen (or Vail, or Tahoe) again.

It’s hardly a typical ski resort. Here, at the foot of Mount Timpanogos, conservation is paramount, and you’ll find the development has been as sensitive as possible. It’s part eco-lodge, part artists’ community, which is not just ethically correct but also quite aesthetically satisfying; the lofts and suites are understated, with a certain hand-crafted quality, and the freestanding cottages are immersed in the landscape, surrounded by picture-perfect Rocky Mountain pine forest.

The feel is residential, as befits a remote mountain escape — you’ll have at least a fridge and microwave, if not a proper kitchen. For those in search of extra space some full-sized privately-owned mountain homes are offered for rent, and everyone is entitled to a bit of high luxury in the spa. Art classes are available, as are screenings of films from the Sundance festival, and between the upscale Tree Room and the hearty Foundry Grill there’s no way to go hungry.

How to get there:
Sundance Resort is approximately a one-hour drive from Salt Lake City (SLC International Airport).