Village at Squaw Valley - Lake Tahoe

The temperatures have cooled down, the leaves are falling off the trees, holiday decor is beginning to pop up everywhere, and thoughts of holiday treats have begun to spring up. This can only mean one thing – winter is on the way and it is time to start planning your snowy winter getaway! Nothing says winter quite like a cozy cabin rental, a friendly welcoming bed and breakfast, or a world-class skiing town.

On my 5 winter getaways list featured below, you will find a variety of options for great winter vacations, from coast to coast. From the breathtaking scenery of Lake Tahoe, to the picturesque setting of the quaint White Mountain region, these top winter getaways are sure to leave you with lasting vacation memories.

Each getaway listed below offers enough amenities where you do not have to leave the property, which is ideal for those craving a relaxing holiday getaway. However, if you do want to venture out and take advantage of seasonal winter fun, the option is available as well.

Whether your preference lies in a jam packed itinerary of winter fun or a rejuvenating weekend relaxing by the fireplace, there is a winter getaway waiting for you. No matter which getaway you choose, you are sure to enjoy the beautiful setting, wonderful amenities, and friendly staff found at each of the properties listed below.

Bear Mountain Lodge – Bethlehem, New Hampshire – White Mountains Region

Bear Mountain Lodge in Bethlehem, New Hampshire
Bear Mountain Lodge is the perfect winter escape – secluded & snowy!

New Hampshire’s Bear Mountain Lodge, a cozy property in the White Mountains, is an amazing winter bed and breakfast destination. The gorgeous log cabin is situated on 26 wooded acres, completely isolated in the wilderness.

The rustic themed decor, proximity to fun winter activities, and tremendous views of Mt. Washington combine together to form the winning winter vacation ambiance. The innkeepers could be a bit friendlier, however, otherwise a great property.

The highlight of this lodge is the prime location and access to wonderful on-site winter activities. On site seasonal fun includes: complimentary snowshoes to use on nearby trails, a year-round hot tub, and snowmobile trails.

Snowshoes at Bear Mountain Lodge n Bethlehem, New Hampshire
Complimentary snowshoes for guests to try out the on-site trails!
Snowshoeing at Bear Mountain Lodge in Bethlehem, New Hampshire
Snowshoeing on Bear Mountain’s on-site trails! What a beautiful winter setting!

Views of the White Mountains from Bear Mountain Lodge in Bethlehem, New Hampshire
Check out these wonderful views of the White Mountains from Bear Mountain’s Grand Room.

The design is absolutely beautiful and consistent throughout the lodge. The extra rustic themed touches make a winter getaway even more memorable. Our moose themed room was so adorable and cozy.

Moose themed log cabin styled room at Bear Mountain Lodge in Bethlehem, New Hampshire
Each individual guest room is decorated in a rustic theme.

Extra luxuries at this B&B include afternoon cookies and tea, a home cooked breakfast each day of your stay, and complimentary coffee, tea, and drinks.

Nearby winter fun:

  • Cross country skiing at Bretton Woods (pictured below)
  • Sleigh rides at the Franconia Inn
  • Downhill skiing at Cannon Mountain
Cross country skiing at Bretton Woods Nordic Center in New Hampshire
Cross country skiing at Bretton Woods Nordic Center

As you can see there are more than enough winter activities to incorporate into your itinerary. However, if you want to relax in a wonderful setting, there are more than enough opportunities for on-site R&R as well.

The White Mountains region of New Hampshire is absolutely gorgeous. Although there are many wonderful lodging options to choose amongst, Bear Mountain offers a setting that is truly spectacular.

Restaurants to check out: Cold Mountain Cafe, The Riverview Restaurant

How to get here: Bear Mountain Lodge is located far away from the hustle and bustle of any city, although it still makes for a quick weekend getaway from Boston (2.5 hours), NYC (5.5 hours), and most cities in New Hampshire. For those flying, the Manchester-Boston Regional Airport is about 100 miles away from the property. Bear Mountain Lodge is located at:  3249 Main St, Bethlehem, NH 03574.

Timber Tops Luxury Cabin Rentals -Gatlinburg & Pigeon Forge, Tennessee – The Smoky Mountains Region

Views from Life's a Bear cabin rental in the Smoky Mountains - Timber Tops
The wonderful views of the Smokies from the patio of Life’s a Bear cabin

Timber Tops is the premier luxury cabin rental company in the Smoky Mountains. This fantastic company offers a diverse selection of luxury cabin rentals in the Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge areas.

Cabins are located in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, with many offering panoramic views of the mountains.  A secluded cabin in the woods is the perfect winter escape, especially when combined with luxurious amenities like an outdoor hot tub facing the mountains, a cozy fireplace, and beautiful mountain themed decor.

Cabin rentals in the Smoky Mountains with an outdoor hot tub - TImber Tops Life's a Bear
What’s better than a winter hot tub soak taking in these gorgeous views?!

Options range from a 1 to 15 bedroom rental. Home theater rooms, in cabin pools, arcade rooms, and outdoor fire pits are just some of the amazing amenities which you can request.

If planning a December getaway, a festively decorated holiday cabin (complete with a decorated Christmas tree) can be specifically requested. Pictured below are the holiday decorations of Life’s a Bear, a luxury, secluded 1 bedroom in Gatlinburg.

Christmas decorated cabin in Tennessee's Smoky Mountains - Timber Tops
Life’s a Bear cabin is decorated beautifully for the holiday season

Timber Tops is an excellent choice for a family holiday gathering. You have cabins of all sizes with varying amenities in all different price ranges to choose amongst. And thus, there is an option to suit everyone. Some even allow pets. And both Gatlinburg and Pigeon Forge are just a short drive away.

Nearby winter fun in Gatlinburg/Pigeon Forge

  • Skiing, tubing, and ice skating at Ober Gatlinburg
  • Christmas shopping at The Incredible Christmas Place in Pigeon Forge
  • Holiday shows at the Smoky Mountain Opry
  • Christmas at Dollywood
  • Gatlinburg’s Winter Trolley of Lights

Each night of your stay you will receive 2 for 1 tickets to a local attraction (be sure to take advantage of this great deal!).

Ice skating rink at Ober Gatlinburg - Smoky Mountains
The large indoor ice rink at Ober Gatlinburg
Winter Trolley of Magic Lights in Gatlinburg, Tennessee
The Winter Lights Festival in Gatlinburg

Be sure to plan your vacation several months in advance, especially if planning a holiday getaway, as cabins tend to sell out quickly during this time of the year.

Restaurants to check out: Log Cabin Pancake House, The Peddler Steakhouse, Crockett’s, The Old Mill, Hard Rock Cafe

How to get here: Timber Tops is conveniently located within driving distance to many major cities such as Nashville (3.5 hours), Atlanta (4 hours), and Charlotte (3.5 hours). The closest major airport is Knoxville, approximately an hour from the Gatlinburg area. The Timber Tops office is located at: 1440 Upper Middle Creek Road, 204, Sevierville, TN 37876.

Lazy Bear Lodge – Vilas, North Carolina – Western North Carolina/Blue Ridge Parkway area

Lazy Bear Lodge in Western North Carolina

Lazy Bear Lodge is a quaint little getaway option in the mountains of Western North Carolina. It’s the perfect year-round escape for those looking for a little peace and quiet. This rustic 2 story cabin features an amazing setting on 7 acres of wooded land. In addition to fantastic views of the Blue Ridge mountains from the lodge’s living room, you can also enjoy the same views from the comfort of your own private patio.

Beautiful early morning mountain views from a guest room at the Lazy Bear Lodge
Beautiful early morning mountain views from a guest room at the Lazy Bear Lodge
Great mountain views at the Lazy Bear Lodge!
Great mountain views at the Lazy Bear Lodge!

One of the charming Lazy Bear guest rooms, complete with a fireplace and great mountain views!
One of the charming Lazy Bear guest rooms, complete with a fireplace and great mountain views!
A cozy in room fireplace for those chilly winter nights
A cozy in room fireplace for those chilly winter nights
The main room is decorated beautifully for the holidays
The main room is decorated beautifully for the holidays
The quaint breakfast setting at Lazy Bear Lodge
The quaint breakfast setting at Lazy Bear Lodge

Area winter activities include:

Snow varies by season, however, January and February are usually the best months for those seeking plenty of winter recreational fun. Whether or not the area sees snow, the ski resorts feature snow making. So, as long as it is cold enough to make snow, skiing & tubing will be available!

Restaurant to check out: Casa Rustica is a wonderful local Italian restaurant. Here, you will be treated to great service, a cozy, rustic setting & authentic Italian cuisine. Also, Boone and Blowing Rock are both home to charming Main Streets. You will find a number of local restaurants and cafes in each downtown. In Boone, Coyote Kitchen is a great local Mexican eatery. In Blowing Rock, you can’t beat the funky ambiance at Mellow Mushroom.

How to get here: Vilas, North Carolina is located in the High Country of Western North Carolina. It is conveniently located with a 10-15 minute drive of Boone and Blowing Rock. Asheville is only a 2 hour drive away.

Kitzhof Inn – West Dover, Vermont – Mount Snow area

Kitzhof Inn - West Dover, Vermont
The charming Kitzhof Inn, decorated for the holidays

Kitzhof Inn is a cozy little bed and breakfast located in West Dover, Vermont, home to Mt. Snow Ski Resort. The wood cabin atmosphere of the lodge, quiet setting, and quick access to the slopes (the resort is located on the base of the mountain with a complimentary shuttle available) make the Kitzhof a perfect winter getaway option for New Englanders.

In addition to a home-cooked breakfast, you will find a number of other desirable amenities, including: a cozy log cabin style common room, an indoor hot tub, and a BYOB bar.

Rustic room at the Kitzhof Inn - West Dover, Vermont
Each room features an attractive rustic design
Living room of the Kitzhoff Inn - West Dover, Vermont
A large common room, complete with a fireplace and plenty of spots to relax

The atmosphere is wonderful with an attractive ski lodge style design throughout the property. The inn is quiet, cozy, and super relaxing to come back to after a long day on the slopes.

Area winter activities include:

  • Skiing at Mt Snow (the inn can pre-order tickets for you with 3 days advance notice)
  • Cross country skiing at Timber Creek (a 5 minute drive from the inn)
  • Snowmobile tours from High Country snowmobiles
  • Skiing at Stratton Mountain Resort (located on the highest peak in Southern Vermont)

Mt. Snow offers much more than skiing. Tubing, cross country skiing, dog sled rides, sleigh rides, cross country skiing trails, and a full spa are available for those who prefer to spend their time off the slopes.

Scenic overlook in West Dover, Vermont
A scenic overlook in West Dover

How to get here: West Dover is conveniently located within driving distance of many major cities in the area including: Boston (2.5 hours), New York City (4 hours), and Albany (1.5 hours). The closest airport is Rutland Southern Vermont Regional Airport, located about an hour and a half away in Rutland.

Harvey’s Lake Tahoe – Stateline, Nevada – Lake Tahoe area

Harvey's Lake Tahoe - Stateline, Nevada
Harvey’s is the best casino in the Lake Tahoe region

Lake Tahoe is one of the most beautiful places in the world. The gorgeous lake and mountain views lead to a spectacular setting, no matter the season. Tahoe is a winter paradise with opportunities for just about any winter sport: skiing, snowboarding, tubing, ice skating, sleigh riding, and so much more! Plus, you have casinos, live shows, dozens of restaurants (many with incredible views!), cabin rentals, lodge style hotels & resorts, and the list goes on!

Snowy mountain views in Lake Tahoe
Gorgeous winter views in Lake Tahoe

Lake Tahoe is a world-class skiing destination with several top class resorts (Heavenly Mountain and Squaw Valley are the best).  Squaw Valley was the site of the 1960 Winter Olympics. Snowfall totals average an incredible 450 inches per year, with the ski season often running as late as mid May!

Squaw Valley tram ride at Lake Tahoe
The Squaw Valley Cable Car ride is a must on any winter visit to the area!
Skiing at Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe
Skiing at Squaw Valley
Christmas tree at Squaw Valley in Lake Tahoe
The beautiful holiday decorations at The Shops of Squaw Valley

The Lake Tahoe region offers lodging options to suit every style and budget, from luxury lodge style resorts to cozy secluded cabin rentals to lively casino hotels. Lake Tahoe offers it all – recreation, tourist attractions, casinos, and amazing views. Whether you are seeking a quiet winter getaway or an action packed skiing trip, you are guaranteed to find it in Tahoe.

Harvey’s Lake Tahoe, located in Stateline, Nevada, is the perfect place to ski and stay. The hotel frequently offers ski packages. Havery’s offers many desirable amenities including: an outdoor hot tub overlooking the forests, great restaurants and shops, live shows and entertainment, and more.

Here are a few more benefits of staying at Harvey’s:

*the resort is located within walking distance of Heavenly Mountain Ski Resort and The Shops at Heavenly (home to dozens of shops, restaurants, an ice rink, and a movie theater). Ice skating at Heavenly with the snow falling down around you is just so festive and perfect for the holiday season!

*most rooms offer mountain and/or forest views.

*special pet stay rooms, equipped with a welcome treat and a dog bowl are available.

*convenient access to the South Tahoe Express, which provides transportation from the Reno-Tahoe airport and the resorts.

*A free bus shuttle to Squaw Valley can be accessed through a quick walk over to Heavenly Village. Squaw Valley is home to a mountaintop ice rink, which offers breathtaking views of the area.

Harvey’s is the perfect option because you can enjoy some winter fun by day and come back to a lively casino atmosphere at night. You will have no shortage of on-site fun, with dozens of shops and restaurants conveniently located on the hotel’s property. Harvey’s is the ideal choice for those seeking a fun, festive, & action packed Tahoe vacation.

Restaurants to check out in the Lake Tahoe area: The Sage Room Steakhouse, Hard Rock Cafe Lake Tahoe, Forrest Buffet at Harrah’s, Scusa Italian Ristorante, Six Peaks Grill

How to get here: The Reno-Tahoe airport is located about an hour away in Reno, Nevada. A shuttle ride on the South Tahoe Express will take you directly to Harvey’s. Rates are $30 per person one way and $53 round trip. Be sure to check out the schedule and updated pricing info on the South Tahoe Express website.

Have you visited any of the destinations above? What are some of your favorite winter getaways? Feel free to share your suggestions in the comments below!