SUN VALLEY RESORT
IDAHO
Sun Valley, Idaho, shines throughout the year as a wellness destination, although it was originally conceived as a wintertime resort. In fact, many consider it the country’s first destination ski resort.
Sun Valley, Idaho, shines throughout the year as a wellness destination, although it was originally conceived as a wintertime resort. In fact, many consider it the country’s first destination ski resort. Millionaire W. Averell Harriman, chairman of the Union Pacific Railroad, built the Sun Valley Lodge in 1936, and what was to become the Sun Valley Inn in 1937, in order to entice train passengers to stop over for a few nights and do some skiing. Today, skiing insiders continue to flock to Sun Valley for its diverse cross-country and downhill options. And they rave about the remarkable lack of lines at the lifts.
But even non-ski bunnies can find plenty to enjoy during the winter season. The Sun Valley Lodge recently underwent renovation, which included the addition of a 20,000-square-foot spa. The Sun Valley Spa has more than a dozen treatment rooms, locker rooms with steam and sauna facilities, relaxation lounges, a yoga studio and a large fitness facility with the most up-to-date fitness equipment. Steps away is the iconic outdoor heated circular pool, which offers a spectacular view of Bald Mountain. And yes, you can take a dip, even in winter.
For those with a little more energy, try out some new sports on-site. Test the ice at the resort’s historic skating rink, dating back to the 1950s. You can take lessons or show off your stuff during open skating sessions. When you want to come in from the cold, the resort’s retro bowling alley, also from the 1950s (although recently updated), has six lanes and a full-service bar.
The cozy western town of Ketchum sits just a mile down the road from Sun Valley. There are several yoga studios there that open their doors to visitors. There are also plenty of yummy choices for healthy food. GLOW specializes in plant-based entrees and superfood smoothies. Ginger Sweet Juice Bar serves up its cold-pressed juices in mason jars, but during the winter, you might prefer the homemade healing broth for a warm-up. Come lunchtime, you can’t go wrong at Bigwood Bread and Cristina’s. Top dinner choices include Ketchum Grill and Rickshaw. sunvalley.com