You’ve scrolled through dozens of listings. The photos look perfect. The price seems right. But here’s the catch: booking a ski rental can be a lot trickier than it looks. That “ski-in, ski-out” condo might actually mean a 10-minute walk to the lift. Floor plans can be vague, amenities don’t always line up between sites, and when something goes wrong—a flight delay, a booking mix-up, a maintenance issue—you’re suddenly stuck waiting on hold, hoping someone picks up.
That’s where Mountain Travel Experts come in. They’re not just travel agents; they’re skiers, riders, and resort regulars who spend their seasons visiting the places they recommend. They know which condos get the best morning sun, which chalets actually live up to the photos, and which homes work best for families versus big friend groups. Many have toured these properties in person, checked the ski access, and swapped stories with the locals who run them.
Instead of crossing your fingers on a booking platform, you get the benefit of real-world experience with someone who stays in your corner from the moment you start planning to the day you head home.
We caught up with six of our Mountain Travel Experts to hear about their favorite vacation rentals and the types of travelers they’re perfect for.
Why We Love It: "I've stayed at The Crestwood more times than I can count," says Jennie Graz, one of our Mountain Travel Experts. "What I love is that it truly delivers on ski-in ski-out access—you're not dealing with shuttle buses or long walks with tired kids. The Treehouse Kids Ski School is right there, and when my own family visited, my tweens spent every evening at the Snowmass Collective while my husband and I actually got to relax by the fireplace."
The condos feel like real homes. You'll find full kitchens (not kitchenettes), private balconies with gas grills, and enough space that everyone isn't tripping over each other. There's an outdoor heated pool and three hot tubs for après-ski soaks, daily housekeeping so you're not scrubbing dishes on vacation, and on-site ski rentals and storage so you're not hauling gear across the village.
"Every family is different," Jennie adds. "Some want ground-floor access for easy gear hauling. Others want a huge living room for game nights. The Crestwood has so many different layouts that I can match you with the one that actually works for your crew. I know which units have patios that sit right on the snow—perfect if you want to ski in for lunch—and which ones have the best views for morning coffee."
This is where families come back year after year.
Expert Tip: Take advantage of the complimentary shuttle service to Aspen Airport and around Snowmass Village. Jennie can also pre-arrange in-room spa treatments, grocery delivery, and ski school reservations so you skip the lines and head straight to the fun.
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Why We Love It: "Stein Eriksen is where luxury actually means something," says Andy Goggins, one of our Mountain Travel Experts. "These aren't just nice condos—they're 39 opulent condominiums and 15 expansive private homes that offer an authentic yet indulgent alpine home experience. Every stay includes the breakfast buffet in the 7880 Club, so you're starting your day right without even thinking about it."
The residences are refined and beautifully designed, but the real highlight is having the Forbes Five-Star spa just steps away. At 23,000 square feet with more than 16 treatment rooms, it's an incredible wellness retreat. Separate spacious relaxation rooms for men and women feature saunas, steam rooms, and hot and cold plunge baths. Couple's treatment rooms come complete with private showers, tubs, and a shared private relaxation suite with a fireplace.
"What I love is how care-free and relaxing it all is," Kai adds. "You can ski in the morning, come back for a shower, and head straight to your spa treatment—all without leaving the property. The in-room amenities are incredible too: daily housekeeping, same-day laundry and dry cleaning services, plush robes and slippers in every room, Molton Brown products, and even humidifiers because Deer Valley takes care of the details. It's the perfect balance for travelers who want the mountain experience without sacrificing any creature comforts."
Expert Tip: Your Mountain Travel Expert can secure spa reservations in advance and coordinate private home options that have direct lodge access—so you can literally ski back, shower, and head straight to your treatment.
Why We Love It: "Ultima Chalets are what I picture when I think of the perfect European ski vacation," says LeeAnn Close, one of our Mountain Travel Experts. "Each chalet has its own setup, and I love matching guests to the one that fits their style. Some have private balconies perfect for morning coffee, while others are spacious enough for big groups. They all feel luxurious in their own way. A few are true ski-in/ski-out, and the rest are just a quick walk to the slopes.”
Courchevel is extraordinary. Comprising five distinct villages—Courchevel 1850, 1650, 1550, Le Praz, and La Tania—it’s part of the legendary Three Valleys (Les 3 Vallées), the world’s largest interconnected ski area, with terrain to match every skill level. "What really sets Ultima apart is the level of service," Cory explains. "You get a discreet in-room bar and dining service with bespoke menus created by outstanding private chefs. They even offer the exclusive Zuma residency room option if you want that next-level culinary moment. Zuma brings modern Japanese cuisine to the slopes, with hand-picked sakes and cocktails."
The wellness facilities are world-class: a 15-meter swimming pool, indoor and outdoor jacuzzis, Finnish sauna, steam room, fitness room, juice bar, and a beauty salon offering premium treatments like Augustinus Bader skincare and fully-organic Seed to Skin Tuscany products. And if you want experiences beyond skiing, Cory can arrange helicopter touring, ice diving, paragliding, or even skydiving.
“As I tell my clients, you really can’t go wrong here,” Cory says. “Whether you’re unwinding by the fire or out exploring Courchevel, these chalets give you the best of both worlds.”
Expert Tip: Your Mountain Travel Expert can arrange in-chalet chef experiences tailored to your preferences and coordinate après activities in nearby Courchevel 1850—the glitzy side of the resort. They'll handle restaurant bookings, champagne tastings, the works.
Bonus: International travel has layers of complexity. Your Expert manages transfers from Geneva, coordinates lift passes, handles language barriers when booking, help you hire a ski guide, and serves as your point person for any 24/7 support you need. You focus on enjoying France. We handle the logistics.
Read: How to Upgrade Your European Vacation
Why We Love It: “Big Sky has this larger-than-life feel,” Katie Moriland. “The mountains, the terrain, the energy—it’s all huge. With more than 5,800 acres of accessible terrain, it’s a dream for anyone who wants the main focus of their vacation to be about skiing. It’s not just for experts either. There is plenty of beginner and intermediate terrain for families and groups to really explore. Lots of trees and chutes off piste, but plenty of wide open runs for the more beginner skiers. It really lives up to its name.”
Beaverhead 301 captures that same mix of adventure and comfort. “It’s one of my favorite homes to recommend for families or small groups,” Katie says. “The design feels comfortable and modern. The kitchen is beautiful—sleek, high-end appliances and a big breakfast bar that opens into the living space, so everyone can hang out while cooking or pouring a glass of wine. There’s also a big dining table with these incredible mountain views.”
After a day on the slopes, Katie says it’s all about unwinding. “The living room has this gorgeous herringbone-tile fireplace and a big sectional that just pulls everyone together. There are a couple of leather chairs by the window where you can sit with a drink and watch the snow fall. And outside, the balcony has a private hot tub—which is, of course, the perfect end to a long day on the mountain.”
Down the hall, there’s a cozy den with a Smart TV, a sleeper sofa, and a desk for anyone who needs to check in with work. “The setup is really smart,” Katie explains. “The bedrooms give everyone their own space—two with king beds and private bathrooms, and a bunk room that’s great for kids or extra guests.”
The garage is an added bonus with ski storage, boot dryers, and a ping pong table for a little friendly competition after the lifts close. “It’s those small touches that make it feel like a real home base,” Katie says. “You can tell it was designed for people who love being in the mountains.”
Expert Tip: The Explorer Gondola is just across the parking lot via the White Wing Ski Run, so getting on the slopes couldn’t be easier. Ask your Mountain Travel Expert for help finding other Beaverhead condos near this access point—they’re some of the most convenient spots in Big Sky.
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Why We Love It: “I always recommend Strawberry Park Home for big family trips,” says Lilly, one of our Mountain Travel Experts. “It’s not just about the size; it’s about the atmosphere. This log-style lodge has beautiful finishes, with hand-hewn beams, stone fireplaces, and custom woodwork that make it feel like a true mountain retreat. It’s the kind of place where grandparents, parents, and kids all feel at home.”
The home delivers on ski-in ski-out access, plus a fully equipped gym, sauna, and game room for those inevitable family competitions. But what Lilly loves most is the setting: Beaver Creek itself. "Beaver Creek is luxury done right," she explains. "They put out warm chocolate chip cookies at 3 PM every day in the village. This has become a family tradition for so many of my clients. And for non-skiers in the group, there's so much to do: snowshoe tours, ice skating, a world-class performing arts center, cross-country skiing, and incredible spas. Everyone finds their thing."
It's perfect for multi-generational gatherings, milestone birthdays, or any trip where you want everyone under one roof—without feeling like you're on top of each other.
Expert Tip: Your Mountain Travel Expert can pre-arrange private chef services for group dinners, coordinate grocery delivery stocked with your family's favorite snacks, and even arrange childcare if you want a few adults-only ski days.
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Why We Love It: Zermatt is absolute magic. The Matterhorn Ski Paradise sits over 13,000 feet above sea level, making it the highest ski area in the Alps, and the views are unreal. Even if you’re not skiing, there’s so much to take in here. When you’re on the slopes, every turn feels epic. The mountains around you are massive, and it’s one of those places that just leaves you in awe.
“The Penthouse Zermatt Lodge is a flagship five-star catered ski chalet and one of Zermatt's most luxurious serviced chalets," says Danielle, one of our Mountain Travel Experts. "It's an exceptional penthouse apartment that takes up the entire top floor of a chalet with an unmatched view over the rooftops dominated by the Matterhorn."
The Penthouse is situated close to the main street and the Sunnegga Express lift station, with central location and flat access from street level with elevator. You're just 50 meters from the main street, a 5-minute walk to the village center, and 5 minutes to Sunnegga or Gornergrat ski lifts.
"What I love about this property is the space and the attention to detail," Danielle explains. "The vast living room has a big central wood-burning stove, floor-to-ceiling windows, and a south-facing balcony that runs the whole length of the room. It's the ideal spot to unwind with a glass of wine and take in those stunning Matterhorn views at sunset. There are five double bedrooms—three of which can be configured as twins—and all have en-suite bathrooms and TVs. The hot tub on the balcony is incredible—really hot water with powerful bubbles and transparent screens so you can admire the panoramic mountain views even in bad weather."
The service is what really sets this property apart. As the flagship property of a collection of 20 luxury chalets, you get white-glove treatment from start to finish. Before you even arrive, a concierge reaches out to coordinate all the details—from meeting your train at Zermatt station and arranging transfers, to planning menus, booking ski lessons, organizing equipment rentals, and securing reservations at the best restaurants. Throughout your stay, the concierge remains available while your private chef and host handle meals and keep everything running smoothly.
"And if all that isn't enough," Danielle adds, "Zermatt has some of the world's best mountain restaurants. These chalets offer free Gourmet Guiding—their gourmet director, Donald Scott, will guide you around the mountain and to the top mountain restaurants. It's food-focused travel done right."
Expert Tip: Your Mountain Travel Expert can arrange reservations at Zermatt's best restaurants, coordinate in-chalet chefs for special dinners, and even arrange fridge-stocking services so you wake up to fresh pastries and local specialties.
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Read: Europe's Top Destinations for Food Lovers
Personalized Guidance: Your Expert knows every unit's quirks—the actual floor layouts, which units have the best views, how the bed configurations work, the best access routes to the lifts. They've been there or they've heard directly from travelers. No surprises.
Full-Service Planning: Want to book flights, transfers, lift tickets, equipment rentals, spa appointments, and activities all in one place? Your Mountain Travel Expert handles it all in one easy booking.
Real Support, Not a Call Center: From the moment you start planning to the day you return home, your Expert is your person. Not a rotating team. Not an automated system. If a flight is delayed, if luggage gets lost, or if something else comes up, you talk to someone who knows your trip and your preferences. Those are the details that can make a stressful vacation, car-free.
Peace of Mind: Your vacation is fully supported from start to finish by someone who genuinely cares about getting it right. You're not just a booking number. You're someone they've invested time in understanding.
Booking a ski vacation rental with a Ski.com Mountain Travel Expert means having a trusted, trip-savvy friend by your side. Our Experts bring insider knowledge, full-trip support, and a real human connection to every booking. Before your trip, during your trip, after your trip: we're there.
Let a Ski.com Mountain Travel Expert handle the details so you can focus on what matters—powder, family, friends, and those moments that make ski vacations unforgettable.
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