There is something almost magical about the winter in the Midwest of America. In the countryside are mountains with cozy cottages that dot the landscape and with nary another person in sight. This winter wonderland could be the image on the front of a holiday card, but instead, it where you’ll find one of the most beloved ski and luxury resorts in North America, the Stein Eriksen Lodge.

Located in Park City, Utah , Stein Eriksen Lodge is cushioned in the Wasatch Mountains offering an intimate travel experience unlike no other. This is the only Forbes Five-Star hotel located in Utah and has won this award every year since 2007. Equipped with fine dining and a five-star spa, Stein Eriksen Lodge provides guests the highest level of luxury after a day of exploring the great outdoors.

Whether guests are traveling during the summer to hike through the mountains or during the winter for a skiing retreat, Stein Eriksen Lodge is perfect for travelers looking to get closer to nature throughout their trip. As guests pull up in their cars, a valet immediately unloads their luggage as an indication of the level of service to expect before guests even walk through the front door.

Although many people enjoy skiing in Park City, Utah, most of them aren’t aware of the area’s rich history. Named after the Norwegian Olympic gold medalist Stein Eriksen, it is only fitting that it was the home of the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. As one of the most famous skiers, Stein Eriksen won four gold medals during his career and is an inspiration to many. When he retired, he moved to Park City, Utah and even served as a host at Stein Eriksen Lodge before he passed away.

Sitting on eleven acres of property, Stein Eriksen Lodge has unforgettable views of the mountains. As the sun begins to set, the pink sky reflects against the crystal snow, showing off a mix of colors instead of a bleak winter sky. From the ski lift, this grand resort, inspired by European ski lodges, looks like a dollhouse with its cottage style architecture. With the roof coated in a light dusting of snow, this picturesque scene is reminiscent of the village in A Christmas Story.

As the wind blows their hair, guests prepare for the jump down as the adrenaline runs through them like a breeze brought on by the snow. No matter where guests are at the resort, sitting by the fire in their suite or sipping on a hot chocolate in the game room, this luxury ski lodge certainly evokes the holiday feeling.

Each suite at Stein Eriksen Lodge is decorated uniquely, incorporating rustic designs like reclaimed wood and a farmhouse lighting to bring this ski lodge to life. With stone fireplaces in the living room and master bedroom, travelers can relax by the fire for a cozy night after a long day of being out in the cold. As they feel the warmth against their skin, the heat soothes their aching muscles while they doze off to the murmuring crackle of the fire.

In the master bedroom, oversized leather couches make for the perfect place to relax before bed. Sipping on mulled wine, travelers can enjoy each other’s company in the warm lighting as they sink into the plush couches. With arched ceilings, lined with wooden beams, the room feels spacious and the large windows and balcony door bring the outside in. Flowerpots and small trees are also placed throughout the suite, offering a fresh scent of pine that embodies this winter wonderland.

On the balcony or private deck, guests are pampered with a personal hot tub that overlooks the mountain. After a long day on the slopes, the hot bubbling water is exactly the prescription to rejuvenate weary bodies while getting close to your loved one. Guests are encouraged to use all of the lodge’s amenities, equipped with full sized kitchens and a grocery delivery service for those who love to cook.

Even the most experienced skiers experience sore muscles after a morning on the slopes. Luckily for guests, Stein Eriksen Lodge is the home to Utah’s only five-star spa. With sixteen different treatment options, there are plenty of choices that fit every guests’ needs.

Classic spa amenities are offered, like a steam room and sauna, but this luxury lodge gives guests a spa experience catered to their specific needs. Because guests come from around the world, Stein Eriksen Lodge created a three-hour High-Altitude Relief Package to help travelers adjust to the change in elevation. Between the aromatherapy massage, facial, and body polish, visitors are sure to leave feeling relaxed and moisturized, the perfect anecdote for the cold, dry air.

Another way for travelers to rejuvenate is by taking a dip in the pool. Even during the colder seasons, both of Stein Eriksen’s heated pools are open for guests’ enjoyment. The stone patio also features a hot tub, perfect for travelers looking to warm up after a day out in the cold.

As guests lower themselves into the warm water, their body instantly feels energized against the frosty air. Watching skiers fly down the mountain in the distance, soaking in the pool is an almost surreal experience.

Guests are invited to unwind at Stein Eriksen Lodge’s very own four-star restaurant after hitting the slopes. Glitretind Restaurant provides an elegant and cozy space for guests to dine. With rustic chairs crafted to look like branches to the comfortable leather cushions, the finest details are apparent at this restaurant. Norwegian for “shimmering mountain”, Glitretind not only offers incredible food, but also unforgettable views of the Wasatch Mountains. Coated in fluffy snow and peppered with trees, there is no better sight to accompany the hearty meals served at Glitretind Restaurant.

Perfect for filling up after a day of exercise, Glitretind offers protein-focused dishes like smoked duck breast and king salmon to replenish guests. With a wine collection of over 10,000 bottles, sommeliers are sure to pick out a wine pairing that is perfect for any dish ordered. Dessert includes a fancy take on the classic smore along with homemade chocolate exclusive to Stein Eriksen Lodge.

As one of the best ski resorts in America, Stein Eriksen Lodge has become a mecca for the international ski community. This lodge has been recognized as the premiere ski resort in North America and with good reason. An endless array of amenities from their slope side location, year-round heated pools , first class spa facilities and luxury suites perfect for any number of people, this luxury lodge has the best of everything most demanding skier. Stein Eriksen Lodge stands alone as the epitome of luxury lodges and ski lifestyle in Utah and beyond.

Article by Giuliana Santomauro