‘Tis the season to plan your winter travel—and if your style leans classic, that might mean finding a cozy mountain home for the holidays.
There’s something timeless about spending the holidays in the mountains. Alpine peaks, crackling fireplaces, festive village lights, and exhilarating days on the slopes create memories that become cherished traditions for years to come. But the most meaningful part of the experience is undoubtedly the opportunity to gather with loved ones under one snow-covered roof. Whether you’re looking to ski, sightsee, or simply spend time with friends and family, Inspirato’s collection of private mountain homes and world-class hotels await to welcome you this holiday season.
Colorado: A Classic Mountain Holiday
Colorado has long been one of North America’s premier winter destinations—and with its legendary ski terrain and Bavarian-style architecture, few places capture the magic of the holidays like Vail.
Throughout December, Vail Village transforms into Kringle Crossing, where twinkling lights, festive chalets, outdoor skating, holiday performances, and visits with Santa create a storybook setting. Close to the festivities is The Sonnenalp, an award-winning Inspirato Signature Hotel overlooking Gore Creek and the surrounding shops and restaurants. Its resort-style amenities, exceptional hospitality, and central location create an easy way to celebrate.
For families and larger groups, expansive private residences like Riva Ridge and Alpenglow offer inviting accommodations and sweeping views. Spend your days carving fresh tracks and your evenings gathering around the fire in comfort, privacy, and holiday cheer.
Breckenridge comes alive for the holidays, with over 250,000 lights illuminating the Victorian storefronts of its historic downtown. From lively events to world-class skiing, the area offers many ways to experience the holidays in the mountains—and Inspirato residences provide expansive accommodations for your stay. Cimarron is a newly built home steps from the gondola, while Fletcher offers classic mountain charm on the banks of the Blue River.
In Aspen, the town’s beloved 12 Days of Aspen fills the calendar with events like holiday concerts, cookie decorating, and the annual tree lighting hosted by The Little Nell. Join the festivities while staying at Copper Gulch, a stylish retreat blending classic and contemporary features at the base of Aspen Mountain. Alternatively, Buckhorn offers generous entertaining space and striking views.
For a quieter holiday, visit Beaver Creek for village charm, exceptional skiing, and private residences like Solitude, which has over 2,000 square feet of panoramic patio space. Sugar Ridge in nearby Steamboat Springs pairs contemporary interiors with ski-in/ski-out convenience.
Utah and Montana: Holidays Out West
Utah offers a distinctly relaxed take on holidays in the mountains, with world-renowned skiing and welcoming traditions.
In Park City, festive favorites like the Christmas Eve Torchlight Parade and Main Street Snow Globe Stroll bring residents and visitors together throughout December. Tycoon is a four-story, five-bedroom residence five minutes from Main Street, while Pendry Park City offers elevated resort amenities for an easy and elegant stay.
Nearby, Deer Valley is a true winter wonderland during the holidays. Contemporary residences like Crescent and Ski Haven provide preferred access to amenities at the award-winning Stein Eriksen Lodge. For a larger group, the spacious Webster sleeps 12 right above the slopes.
Farther north, Big Sky, Montana, celebrates the season with tree-lighting ceremonies, horse-drawn wagon rides, visits with Santa, holiday markets, and fireworks over Meadow Village and Town Center. Private mountain homes like Gallatin and Lone Peak Lodge in Moonlight Basin, and Flatiron in Spanish Peaks near the Highlands Lift, are perfectly situated for a festive stay.
Europe: A Festive Alpine Escape
Across the Atlantic, Europe’s alpine villages blend centuries-old holiday traditions with mountain scenery.
In Saint-Gervais-les-Bains, France, twinkling lights illuminate cobblestone streets while markets fill the village with artisan gifts, local specialties, and holiday cheer. Armancette Hotel‘s refined accommodations are moments from the festivities as well as the Mont Blanc ski area.
Italy’s Dolomites are home to COMO Alpina Dolomites, where guests enjoy ski-in/ski-out access alongside South Tyrol’s unique blend of Austrian and Italian traditions. These include seasonal markets, concerts, multimedia displays, and the region’s celebrated Krampus parades.
For the quintessential alpine escape, of course, no destination is as iconic as Zermatt, Switzerland. Beneath the Matterhorn, this pedestrian-only village pairs world-class skiing with an enchanting atmosphere. Explore its pristine slopes and shop-lined streets before returning to the Grand Hotel Zermatterhof, where historic architecture meets European hospitality.
Find Your Mountain Home for the Holidays
Whether your traditions involve skiing fresh powder, discovering centuries-old holiday markets, or gathering with friends and family in a spacious mountain home, Inspirato offers exceptional places to celebrate. Explore our collection of luxury accommodations and Inspirato Only Experiences to begin planning a holiday getaway you’ll remember for years to come.
