| When it comes to winter vacations, North America is | | | | world-class slopes. The huge, historic Colonial style |
| still top of the game for glamorous and snow-packed | | | | Equinox Resort and Spa Hotel was awarded 'Best Ski |
| destinations. Picture the scene; fur coats, roaring log | | | | Resort' in the 2005 World Travel Awards. The vast |
| fires and crystal glasses of brandy to keep out the | | | | array of outdoors activities would make any family |
| cold. Here's the low down on the best luxury hotels | | | | blink twice in delighted surprise; hiking, biking, |
| for ski fanatics - and for those who prefer to watch | | | | cross-country skiing, off-road driving and falconry |
| from the safety of the sauna and the bar of course, | | | | lessons are just some of the challenges on offer. The |
| too... | | | | real star, however, is still the enormous luxury spa |
| 1. The Fairmont Chateau, Whistler, Canada | | | | and its collection of nature-inspired treatments. |
| One of most iconic resorts in North America, Whistler | | | | |
| has it all for snow bunnies; top-notch slopes, | | | | 3. Austria Haus Hotel, Vail, USA |
| family-friendly facilities and bags of atmosphere to | | | | Colorado undoubtedly has some of the best snow |
| cap it all off. Situated at the base of the infamous | | | | and mountains in the whole of North America - and |
| Blackcomb Mountains, the Fairmont Chateau is the | | | | the boutique shops and quaint villages aren't too |
| premier resort for visitors and has every conceivable | | | | shabby, either. The luxury Austria Haus Hotel in Vail |
| amenity on site. Traditional but luxurious, highlights | | | | has a decidedly European-luxe atmosphere and is a |
| here include the award-winning golf course, an | | | | shining symbol of winter high society. Nestled on the |
| outdoor pool with underwater music and excellent | | | | banks of the Gore Creek, it has spectacular views |
| afternoon teas. During the peak winter season, the | | | | and a convenient location for both the shops and the |
| Chalet Restaurant is also open for a three course | | | | slopes. Decorated in a traditional Austrian mountain |
| fondue. All in all, it's perfect for the whole family. | | | | lodge style, all the rooms have marble bathrooms |
| | | | with heated floors, plus gas-log fires and French |
| 2. Equinox Resort and Spa, Vermont, USA | | | | balconies available on request. For a romantic cure for |
| Another picture-postcard skiing destination, Vermont | | | | those aching muscles, head to the bar for cocktails |
| in the USA has long been popular with visitors for its | | | | and canapés, and then enjoy a soak in the |
| elegant après ski scene as much as it's | | | | steamy outdoor Jacuzzi. |