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Southern Spain's Sierra Nevada region boasts great skiing and sights like the stunning Alhambra fortress
Stowe
A refuge for East Coast city dwellers, peaceful Stowe, Vermont is synonymous with laid-back living. Though popular for its legendary Front Four pistes, the town also spells out relaxation with half a dozen wellness centers and spas, as well as yoga and Pilates studios. For cross-country skiing, there’s the Nordic Center at the Trapp Family Lodge (created in 1942 by the family of The Sound of Music fame), which offers 90 scenic miles of groomed and backcountry trails. Stowe stands out among Vermont ski towns for the charm of its preserved historic structures and the variety of its cuisine (50 restaurants for just 4,300 residents), as well as its simple diversions for families, such as a cider mill and tours of the nearby Ben & Jerry's factory.
Smart Splurge: Set on 120 unspoiled acres, Topnotch Resort & Spa resembles a traditional English country manor and has a sumptuous spa and beloved restaurant, Norma’s, where morning pancakes come with locally tapped maple syrup. From $300/night; www.topnotchresort.com
Great Value: Green Mountain Inn's offerings range from standard rooms to two-bedroom town houses and the newer, urban loft-like Mansfield House apartments. Modern perks such as free WiFi in the rooms coexist with traditional amenities like afternoon tea in the historic main building. From $169/night; www.greenmountaininn.com
Ski For Free in Vermont from $250/Night Editors' Review
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