Greatest Mountain Escapes for your Next Retreat

For many people, the prospect of being in the mountains, experiencing stunning scenery and wildlife, and getting the opportunity to walk or climb in these wonderful settings is the vacation of a lifetime; and, of course, many people explore different mountain retreats year after year.

So many countries have extraordinary mountain ranges that it can be hard to decide where to go. Here are some options for you.

Queenstown, New Zealand

Here, you can find everything you want to do in the mountains in one relatively small area. The mountains form a jaw-dropping backdrop as you get the opportunity to skydive or bungee jump, snowboard or ski, or just gently relax with a little fishing in the crystal clear waters of Lake Wakatipu. Hikers, golfers and mountain bikers will also find a home in Queenstown, and you can relax from your exertions in the many restaurants and bars in this town. Don’t forget to check out the local vineyards as well – the pinot noir is acclaimed worldwide.

Whistler, Canada

Whistler was the home of the Winter Olympics in 2010 and is one of Canada’s and the world’s top mountain resorts. It is family-friendly, ideal for that special vacation with everyone, and boasts the longest zip-line run in North America as well as opportunities to heli-hike on alpine meadows. If you want a calmer time, why not try canoeing on the River of Golden Dreams, flowing from the eastern end of Alta Lake? You might see a bald eagle as it flies above you, but keep a look out for other wildlife that you could spot on the shores.

Michigan, US

If you’ve never thought of Michigan as a place for a great mountain escape, then it’s time to think again. Head up to Boyne and you’ll find the perfect place for skiing, with superb winter resort amenities. It doesn’t matter whether you are an experienced skier or not. If you are, then you’ll thrill to the black diamond runs. If you’re not, then experienced instructors will help you find your way into this exciting sport, setting you up for many more years of gliding down the slopes. You can check out Bluegreen Resorts Getaways to get more of a feel for this resort, as well as check prices and accommodation availability.

Dolomites, Italy

Europe is renowned for its mountain resorts, and though Switzerland, Austria and France are serious contenders for visitors, a trip to the Dolomites in Italy is also an area well worth a visit for mountain enthusiasts. The accommodations and restaurants are top class, and you can indulge in many adventurous sports while you’re there. Skiing is a given – there is a huge interconnected ski web – and there are hundreds of kilometers of mountain biking trails for the energetic. You can also experience delicious Italian cuisine and hospitality and, when you’re looking for something to add to the experience, just wander along paths blooming with wildflowers.

Resorts for recreation

Not everyone goes for mountains – beaches have an undeniable attraction ­– but if you’re looking for a vacation to really remember, then a mountain resort can give you that. It doesn’t matter where you go; you just need to choose what suits you and your family.

Don’t worry if you haven’t done a particular activity before – resorts in the mountains have everything on hand to teach you. Traditional destinations available in the US, Canada, Europe and New Zealand have the experience to give you the experience you want, and emerging mountain resort nations such as China are also going to be exciting destinations – examine what’s on offer and go for a great mountain escape.