Sun Valley, Idaho

WHERE TO STAY

Ski trips are, naturally, always our priority and there’s a couple of spots ideal for a winter break. Limelight Ketchum is deep in the Wood River Valley and surrounded by five of the best mountain ranges the area has to offer. It’s set-up to cater for groups, couples and families, with an indoor-outdoor approach that allows you to immerse yourself in the landscape (without having to leave the hot tub). Their Zenergy Spa is a must for down days off the slopes – you can buy a day pass if you’re not a hotel guest, too.

For a taste of the location’s iconic heritage, try the Sun Valley Lodge. A fixture since the resort first opened in 1936, its rooms are on the traditional side but super comfortable and offer excellent access to both Bald Mountain and Dollar Mountain.

WHERE TO EAT (AND APRES)

No stranger to guests that like a really good time, Sun Valley has tons of options for eating out. For low-key dinners after a day on the slopes, try Enoteca, it has a full menu of Italian specialties, but is best-known for its wood-fired pizzas, which you can also get to go.

One to reserve in advance, The Covey is a truly special experience. Helmed by Ketchum native Jesse Sheue, it has an ever-changing menu of fusion dishes, served in a home-away-from-home setting.

There’s no shortage of bars for your post-dinner drinks and all-important aprés sessions. Duchin Lounge is known for its thoughtful approach to cocktails, TNT Taproom is well-stocked with locally brewed craft beers and biodynamic wines, and Grumpy’s is the best dive bar in town, with supersized drinks and even bigger burgers.

WHAT TO DO

If you do one thing (aside from skiing, because of course that’s already on the list), save a night in your schedule for star gazing. Ketchum’s skies are the first official ‘Dark Sky Reserve’ in the US and are almost completely unspoiled by light pollution. Find a spot and settle in to see the Milky Way, comets and meteors above you.

Although not the likeliest location for it, Sun Valley offers the opportunity to try Nordic Skiing and Snowshoeing. There’s a specific centre catering for both activities, with 40km of trails open to try. Great if you’re up for a challenge.

There’s no chance you’ll leave without skiing down Bald Mountain’s smooth slopes, but make sure you allow time for a stop off at the Lookout Day Lodge. Sitting 9150 feet up, it’s got the best views in town.

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