There’s something special about America’s West and Wyoming in particular. The wide-open spaces, pristine nature of untrampled plains, rivers teaming with rainbow trout and where you’re more likely to see a herd of bison than another person. The air is pure in the Snake River Valley, tinged with a wisp of pine, and the backdrop is the Teton Mountain Range  that all but touches the sky. In the winter, a quiet hush passes over the landscape along with a blanket of powdery pure white snow. This is where you’ll find the Amanagani, a ski lodge like no other created as a haven of sophisticated opulence from which to take in all of the riches of Jackson Hole and Wyoming’s unfettered natural surroundings.

Wyoming may be the least populated state in America, but it is arguably the most beautiful. As one of the most popular ski destinations in North America, Jackson Hole isn’t just known for its serene landscape, but also, it’s lodging. At 7000 feet elevation, Amangani Jackson Hole rests on the very grounds where moose and elk roam. Meaning “peaceful home” in Shoshone, this cliffside lodge truly embodies its namesake.

Amangani Jackson Hole is just a fifteen-minute drive from downtown. As guests make their way to the idyllic retreat, they take in the panoramic views of the mountains and natural landscapes, as the winding private road leads to the three story hilltop lodge. Rich with forty luxury suites, each room has a balcony or patio overlooking the dramatic landscape where guests can enjoy a drink with their loved ones after a day of skiing in Jackson Hole.

With its stone exterior, Amangani combines western designs with classic ski lodge décor. Using Native American inspired furniture that was built with natural materials like Oklahoma sandstone pillars, Pacific redwood panels, and faux fur, Amangani creates a cozy environment that makes guests want to relax in its homely library with a good book. The furnishings are rustic and minimal, keeping guests focused on the surreal countryside around them, displayed throughout the property through ceiling height windows.

Nothing says luxury quite like the Aman Resorts. With hotels stretching across the world, Amangani Jackson Hole is one of two Aman properties in America. This high-end hotel group has gained attention for its retreats, providing guests with an exclusive travel experience. With a small number of rooms at each hotel, guests are sure to be waited on by staff eager to help.

Focusing on wellness and indulgence, it’s no surprise that Amangani is a celebrity favorite. Both Adriana Lima and Angelina Jolie have stayed at this hill-top hideaway and as did music firebrand Kanye West. The level of privacy at this getaway is what keeps guests coming back.

For travellers who love winter sports, this Wyoming ski resort owns an exclusive ski lounge at the mountain and caters to skiers and snowboarder of all ages and abilities. Just a quick ride on the private shuttle brings guests to Teton Village, where all the ski adventures begin. A ski concierge helps mogul chasers plan their day, and snacks and drinks are offered to nourish guests after hitting the slopes. With ski lessons for less experienced skiers, Amangani makes every guest feel comfortable during their trip.

There are many activities offered at the lounge in addition to winter sports. Horse-drawn sleigh rides glide through the National Elk Reserve, where guests can observe the wildlife up close and in their natural habitat. Because of the endless opportunities for a unique alpine adventure at Amangani Jackson Hole, guests certainly get that back-to-nature travel experience they were craving.

One of the best ways to soothe muscles after hitting the slopes is by taking a dip in Amangani’s infinity pool. Stretching 115 feet long, this vast pool is heated year-round, offering a ideal way to round out the day after hiking through the national parks in the summer or for skiing in Jackson Hole during the cooler seasons.

The infinity pool overlooks the Teton Mountain Range, with lounge chairs placed conveniently for the best view. As guests soak in this therapeutic bath, the steam evaporates off the pool into the cold air. Swimming during the winter provides a new level of luxury, using traditional hot and cold therapy for a truly relaxing afternoon.

After a long day of skiing, guests look forward to retiring to their suites. Each room is decorated to draw in elements from nature. With cowhide chairs, pine stump tables, and slate showers and fireplaces, Amangani brings the outside in to make visitors feel at home in this wooden retreat.

The influence of the trees and mountains is clear throughout the design, with cedar, pine, and redwood crafted into furniture. Ceiling high windows let natural light come into the room, brightening up the suite with a reflection of the crisp snow. With a wraparound balcony, guests can see panoramic views of the mountains, fresh with a dusting of snow, as they sip on hot chocolate.

A fireplace and plenty of seating make the suite a cozy oasis in the vast valley. Featuring a king size bed and a window-side day bed, there is plenty of space for guests in this hideaway. Twin vanities and a deep-soaking tub allow a pampering in the privacy of their own suites. The suite also includes a dressing room, perfect for changing out of heavy winter jackets and into something more suitable for dinner.

The après-ski experience begins at The Grill, where chef Andrew Walters brings a new meaning to farm-to-table dining. With a focus on sustainable meats and fish, the menu includes bison rib-eye steak and elk sirloin chili. These locally sourced ingredients are so fresh that guests mouth water after each bite.

The redwood walls create a romantic mood for each meal, with dim lighting of candles and live music for an elegant evening. If guests prefer a more intimate dining experience, the Grill allows guests to choose a private place to eat anywhere at Amangani, from the terrace to a picnic outside to the comfort of their own suite.

The evening continues at Zinc Bar, where guests can enjoy locally brewed beer or themed cocktails. Offering a spicy hibiscus margarita, this is a must-have for those seeking a fruity and flavourful refreshment. Another staple of the Zinc Bar is the huckleberry cider, essential for all winter travellers. With sandstone columns and red-wood panels, this homey bar creates an intimate environment for all, featuring just a handful of stools. A large painting of a buffalo hangs on the wall, bringing in nature to complete the après-ski experience.

This Wyoming ski resort also has a luxury spa, complete with four treatment rooms, two exercise studios and his and her steam rooms. Perfect for rejuvenating the body and relaxing muscles after a day of skiing, this spa focuses on holistic programs that help ease the mind and the body. A relaxing hot stone massage is the best way to unwind after being out in the cold, and Amangani Jackson Hole uses stones from the nearby Snake River to bring guests closer to nature.

Using treatments from around the world, such as a Gua Sha facial and a Shirodhara oil technique, there are options for everyone, whether you’re an avid skier or riding the bunny trails.

Known for its luxurious amenities and proximity to the beautiful Teton Mountains, Amangani has been voted one of the best ski resorts in the country. This lodge has been recognized by avid skiers across the world who after speeding down the black diamond are looking for a relaxing place to unwind. With the panoramic views of the prestigious mountains, and the sightseeing opportunities in Snake River Valley, this luxury resort brings new characterization to the wild west.  Combining sophistication with the coziness of an alpine adventure, there is no better place for ski-lovers to stay than Amangani Jackson Hole.

Article by  Giuliana Santomauro