by Logan Stewart

Created on: June 24, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2011

It bears the label of America's first ski resort, and Sun Valley, Idaho has every reason to be proud. Sun Valley is one of those towns that transcends time, suspended between the fantasy of a rugged, western era long gone, mixed with a modern, hip ski resort flare.
If you are the quintessential sophisticate, (and yes you can play this role regardless of your athletic prowess on the ski slopes) Sun Valley Lodge might fit the bill when it comes to accommodations. You'll experience the bygone era of the early 1900s in the lodge's genteel setting, comfortably accommodating with a drawing room, original swimming pool, and courteous, charming doormen. The lodge has three dining facilities that exude dining elegance, and the spa and other facilities will keep you entertained on those days you don't feel like hitting the slopes.

The lodge's sister hotel, the Sun Valley Inn, boasts a modern Convention Center and remodeled rooms accented with fanciful European furnishings. Guests, or those who just want to stop in for a bite, can dine at the historic Ram restaurant or opt to make it a more casual affair at Bald Mountain Pizza and Pasta. Sun Valley Resort's condominiums cluster around the main village, offering ample opportunity to travel on foot to shopping and dining destinations. You can also opt to stay at one of five cottages if you have a larger crowd. Each cottage is individually named and likewise has a unique personality, and most can sleep up to 10 guests. Nearby Ketchum, Idaho, is practically part of Sun Valley, and offers plenty of hotel and condominium lodgings such as the Best Western Tryolean or the Clarion Inn. Ketchum is also the ideal place to spot a movie star, who frequent the area and seem to enjoy its low-key attitude.

When it comes to recreation, Sun Valley Lodge's modern ski capabilities are a big contrast to its quaint lodgings. The resort's giant snowmaking system and naturally cold temperatures keep the powder flowing on Baldy and other slopes during ski season, one as steep as 3,144 feet. The area draws tourists year-round; the summer months bring a new crop of visitors to fish, hike, golf, and mountain bike. Check out Sun Valley Heli if you want a unique experience, and aren't afraid of heights! Besides some of the wilderness adventures, almost every recreational activity available here is located within close proximity to the village where the resort, cottages, and condos are located.

The locals will tell you that they live in Sun Valley for the quality of life it offers, and even just a short visit can provide you with that needed temporary escape. No matter the season, it's a surefire vacation pick.

Learn more about this author, Logan Stewart.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.