Joan Roca, CEO and founder of the luxury travel concierge Essentialist, said, “A mountain getaway is not only for outdoor enthusiasts. Mountain holidaying is not only for skiers or snowboarders; it is also for peace, luxury, and incomparable views,” he explains. “A lot of clients, including the high-profile ones, like coming to such destinations because of their adventure and relaxation combination.”
Be it a flashy ski trip or a spa-like avenue, these 25 mountain resorts have entertained some of the most photographed faces in the world. From the Swiss Alps to the Dolomites and the Rockies, every location has a tale, and a couple of famous guests to tell it.
Aman Le Mélézin, Courchevel, France
It is Aman le Mélézin and appeals to the highest level, making it one of the best-known resorts among A-listers who have been happily seen such as Leonardo DiCaprio and Beyoncé using its perfect ski-in/ski-out access to the Les Trois Vallées. Rustic-luxe charms with the indulgent spas, gourmet dining, and heated outdoor hot tubs with stunning mountain vistas make it worthwhile–as has been reported by Bella Hadid who spent hours here after a hard day’s work on the slopes.
Amangani, Jackson Hole, USA
Amangani is a favorite oasis for Harrison Ford, who has a ranch not far away, but it is not all about him. It offers the best poolside seat for the Grand Tetons and stands at the edge of Jackson Hole. Ultra-lux’ng the lodge attracts Gigi Hadid, Kanye West, and other celebrities who prefer more from their lifestyle. Skiing, wildlife safaris, and cocktails by fire: Amangani brings rugged luxury together.
Six Senses Zighy Bay, Oman
Just say no to the mountain chill. One of Signature Experiences at this retreat is flying in by paraglider, much to the delight of guests such as Tom Cruise. Dramatically overlooking the Gulf of Oman, this cliffside wonder boasts private villas with plunge pools, spa treatments on world-class levels, and holistic wellness that attracts even the biggest stars in search of adventure in a serene setting.
Tierra Patagonia, Chile
This luxury hotel in Patagonia near Torres-del-Paine National Park has been adored by eco-conscious celebrities like Chris Hemsworth, who noted the sustainable design that allows it to merge with its landscape. From horseback riding to glacier trekking, Tierra Patagonia offers the A-list all the required ingredients to unplug from Hollywood and reconnect with nature.
Étoile du Nord, Val d’Isêre, France
This skier’s new star has already garnered much attention, winning the 2023 Award for World’s Best New Ski Chalet. Built by the chalet interior designer Nicky Dobree, Étoile du Nord has been home to such high-profile clients as Victoria Beckham and Roger Federer, who love its private tunneled entrance and a swimming pool that magically emerges as a floor panel at the touch of a button. Famed are the spectacular mountain views through 23-foot windows; no wonder the stars love it.
Aman Rosa Alpina, Dolomites, Italy
Italy’s Dolomites have been a secret among connoisseurs, including George Clooney, who prefers the area to Lake Como. Aman Rosa Alpina, reopening this summer, is an exquisite mix of alpine charm and refined elegance. Of course, this mountain retreat, with its three-Michelin-starred restaurant, stunning spa, and impressive hiking trails, holds a place in Clooney’s list of favorites during the winter months.
Olinto Atlas Mountain Retreat, Marrakech
Prince Fabrizio Ruspoli di Poggio Suasa’s latest venture has set tongues wagging among royalty and Hollywood elites. Madonna, who has a profound love for Moroccan culture, has paid
compliments to its custom interiors and delectable estate olive oil. Terrific adventure sports are available here, with a contrasting tranquil environment to enjoy poolside, fulfilling the perfect mix of excitement and serenity.
Como Alpina, South Tyrol, Italy
Perched on the beautiful Alpe di Siusi plateau, this luxury hideaway is a favorite among stars such as Zendaya, who stopped over for a photo shoot and stayed for the views. The organic architecture of the resort, together with the soothing spa and Ladino-invoked delicacies, make for an irresistible getaway where luxury meets adventure.
L’Alpaga Hotels and Chalets, Megève, France
For the elite for many years now, Megève can be said to be crowned by L’Alpaga. Cate Blanchett has been seen dining at the Michelin-star-awarded restaurant on the property, while Will Smith had loads of fun on husky-drawn sled rides with his family. Ice climbing, skiing, and cozy chateau interiors place this resort in the elite level for winter resorts.
Caldera House, Teton Village, Wyoming
The ultimate in steely Western style with all the fussy frills, Caldera was designed as a high-end retreat for celebs. Between stunning heated floors, steam showers, and massive soaking tubs,
they all stayed at this exclusive retreat, from Kim Kardashian to Brad Pitt and Matthew McConaughey. Top that off with heli-skiing, wildlife safaris, dining that takes you to the world’s best spots, and it’s a cowboy’s dream-you can ask Matthew “Next-level comfort” McConaughey.
These 10 mountain resorts are the new definitions of luxury and exclusivity-an adventure, plus indulgence, tantalizingly striking balance between the two. Pristine Patagonia, with her Michelin-starred dinners that parallel those of the Dolomites, or the ski-in, ski-out chalets of the French Alps, have made these boudoirs destinations in and of themselves for familiar faces around the globe. Ooh la la! So if you want to vacation like an A-lister, pack your designer snow boots-it’s time to hit the peaks in style.