The big cultural draw, whether by virtue of passion for postwar Euro-American history or the trillings of Dame Julie Andrews, is the Trapp Family Lodge, with its Nordic Ski Centre, opened in 1968 by Johannes von Trapp (yes, of the famous singing alpinists). Vermont is virtually synonymous with cross-country skiing, and the Trapp centre offers more than 100km of back-country trails which heave on beautiful winter days with skiers shooshing their way through magnificent mountain scenery. The Lodge is a magnificent place to stay too, among breathtaking views and dishing up gourmet dining in a cosy, European-lodge style. Night skiing is among the après choices, and a drink at the imposing antique mahogany bar at the Stowe Inn and Tavern is a classic evening ritual.

If you’re all about downhilling all day long, snow conditons and occasionally brutal weather may make Vermont just a little too risky as a transatlantic prospect. For the cross-country crew, and those prepared to give it a shot on a day off the mountain, its an unmatched Eden of big skies and endlessly varied terrain. Those who are all about relaxing in luxury will find the usual American hospitality deal here – quietly spectacular services and facilities (and if you simply must have a ski concierge, darling, Stowe Mountain Lodge is where you should park your matching designer luggage).


Getting there: Boston and Montreal are both realistic gateways with 3-4 hour transfer times. For Boston, British Airways (www.ba.com), from £249 return and American Airlines (www.americanairlines.co.uk), from £228 return fly from London Heathrow. For Heathrow to Montreal, Air Canada (www.aircanada.co.uk), from £296 return are your options.

Tour operators

high-end: Virgin Holidays (www.virginholidays.co.uk)

mid-range: Crystal ski (www.crystalski.co.uk)

budget: Ifyouski.com (www.ifyouski.com)

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