A luxury ski hotel goes beyond immaculately groomed trails and short lift lines and applies luxury to all available amenities and services. The difference between luxury ski accommodation and standard on-piste accommodation is striking, but knowing what to look for before you book your trip helps ensure a truly spectacular ski vacation.

1. Ski-In/Ski-Out Units –

Many of the best luxury hotels have units that offer ski-in, ski-out convenience. This convenient and luxurious comfort means your room or condo is directly on the mountain. Due to the limited nature of accommodation with this slope-side convenience, this is only available at the best resorts.

Ski-in/ski-out accommodation means you won’t have to lug your ski gear up the mountain every day.

The different members of the family can leave or return to the condominium whenever they want without worrying about transportation.

2. Heated outdoor swimming pools –

Even on the coldest, snowiest days, the weather won’t stop you from relaxing in the pool after a long day of skiing.

Not only is the pool heated to a steamy temperature, but the surrounding space, pool deck and hot tub are also underfloor heated.

Many units at luxury ski hotels even offer private Jacuzzis for a long, relaxing soak.

3. Personal Service Amenities –

The luxury ski lodge provides you with a host of personal services during your stay. You’ll have access to 24-hour concierge services, ski equipment transportation and storage, and much more, as your pleasure should never be further than the nearest phone. Common luxury service amenities include the following:

Ski valet service takes the hassle out of lugging ski gear by privately transporting your gear to and from the mountain each day. This service is essential if you are not staying in one of the track side units.

Private massage service in your room or condo.

Errands service for the purchase of groceries and other essentials while you enjoy the slopes.

4. Wellness Amenities –

Luxury ski accommodation doesn’t force you to choose between relaxing wellness facilities and world-class ski conditions. Even the most avid skiers will appreciate the following non-skiing activities, available only at luxury ski resorts.

The spacious gym in a luxury ski lodge includes the latest cardio and weight-lifting machines, plus towels, bottled water and changing rooms.

The steam room, sauna and Jacuzzi will soothe sore muscles after a hard day on the slopes. High-end units often feature private steam showers or steam rooms.

Remember, even the most luxurious hotels have a variety of units. Just because a luxury ski hotel can boast private steam rooms or whirlpool tubs in the luxury suites doesn’t mean all suites are so lavishly appointed. Check to see which luxuries are available only to specific units and which amenities are available to all guests, like a heated outdoor pool.