The Best Places to Book a Staycation in Utah

This traditional European-style lodge, steps from one of the best ski resorts in Utah, will soothe you after a day on the slopes in rustic-chic rooms and suites with beams and stone fireplaces mirroring the public spaces. Après ski in a cozy clear-domed alpenglobe for mountain views on the deck with a hot toddy in hand. Still awake? Catch a film at the lodge’s new private 53-seat movie theater or head down to the 19,000-bottle wine cellar for a tasting.

In downtown Salt Lake City, across from Washington Square Park, European-style opulence defines rooms and suites lined with richly-colored fabrics and floor-to-ceiling windows leading to balconies with city and mountain views. The manicured inner courtyard and landscaped gardens provide calm spaces in the big city. Be sure to check out the in-house boutiques for French macarons and hand-crafted toys. Talking of macarons, don’t miss the cocoa, dainty cake and scone-led afternoon tea.

Five miles (8km) from Arches National Park, this is an excellent base for exploring its geological wonders and Native American rock art. The rustic western landscape inspired the blend of brown leather and terracotta tones in rooms with balconies looking across the surrounding red rock formations. After a day of hiking, you’ll be ready to unwind at the spa or take in more mountain views from the outdoor pool and hot tub, handcrafted cocktail in hand.

The stone buildings at Amangiri blend seamlessly with the canyons, mesas, and gorges as if part of the landscape. The horseshoe-shaped pool serves as the dramatic centerpiece for the clean-lined modernist suites with terraces and fireplaces. Upgrade for a private plunge pool and upper deck for stargazing. For more seclusion, book one of the safari-tented pavilions at Camp Sarika, a five-minute drive away. You’ll dine well on Native American-inspired dishes such as native raised lamb and locally farmed vegetables. The resort can also arrange for a memorable dining experience under the starry desert sky.

This resort-style hotel is the perfect base for families looking to explore the many national parks in Utah – Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Pioneer parks are all within easy reach, as is St. George’s Children’s Museum. The pet-friendly hotel has a year-round heated outdoor pool for post-adventure relaxation all the family will love. During the winter months, guests can cozy up in front of the big stone fireplace in the lobby. Everyone will sleep well in softly-styled rooms bathed in relaxing green and yellows with lots of natural light.

Bordering Zion National Park on the Virgin River, this lodge is ideal for exploring the sandstone cliffs and canyons in Zion. The rustic-luxe suites and studios feature mini-kitchens and fireplaces to cozy up after a day of hiking. Plus, the lodge is just steps from Zion Canyon Village, filled with shops and restaurants. Alternatively, fire up a BBQ at the riverside picnic area and take in the views of the nearby mountains.

In a 19th-century brick mansion near downtown Salt Lake City, this B&B exudes historic charm. Built by Mormon settlers in 1892, the house has six suites with 12ft (3.5m) ceilings, four-poster beds, antique chandeliers, and early Mormon relics, including church pew sitting areas. Guests can relax in the grand living room or enjoy a glass of wine in front of the library fireplace. True to its name, the Ellerbeck serves up a full made-to-order breakfast each morning with coffee, tea, fruit, and pastries always available in the formal dining room for early morning or late-night snacks.

Perfect for a large group or family, Moose Hollow luxury townhome in Eden is an excellent staycation pick. Overlooking a golf course and close to Nordic Valley Ski Resort and Powder Mountain Ski Resort, the large two-story condo has four bedrooms and sleeps six. Cook up a hearty feast in the full gourmet kitchen, then cozy up in front of the living room fireplace. Then you can all soak in the private outdoor hot tub.

Part of the first LEED-certified resort community in the state, this resort is a welcome sight after spending a day on the famed slopes in Park City, a ten-minute drive away. Soak in a freshly-filled private outdoor hot tub in your smartly-styled suite or townhome for the perfect apres-ski activity. Complimentary shuttle service means that all of the shops, restaurants, and bars in downtown Park City are just a short ride away.

Classical meets contemporary at Monaco Kimpton Hotel in Salt Lake City – bold, eccentric modern interiors complement the historic 19th-century architecture of the building. Rooms on the upper floors have mountain and city views, but all have richly colored fabrics, eclectic pieces, and thick, luxurious drapes. Don’t miss craft cocktails at The Vault bar, including the famous Clockwork Orange, a vodka, ginger, and orange juice creation. Kids will love the complimentary custom-designed Micro Kickboard scooters and Nutcase helmets as they explore the city.

This all-suite boutique property in Hildale is an excellent base for exploring the top attractions in Southern Utah, including Zion National Park, Bryce Canyon, and Arches National Park. After a day of exploring, relax on the outdoor observation deck and take in the views of the Vermillion Cliffs. You’ll rest well in rustic rooms with lashings of wood and earthy tones before a hike to Water Canyon Trailhead, two miles (3.2km) away, with breakfast muffins stowed in your backpack.

Some 240 acres (97ha) of pristine Utah ranchland in Moab surround this luxurious retreat. Custom-built cabins have Colorado River views, and the private verandas feature porch swings and rockers. Kids will enjoy visiting the miniature horses at the ranch petting zoo. After dining on the riverside terrace, join the bonfire, and the S’mores Concierge will set you up with all the ingredients to make a tasty treat.