Whether you’re dreaming of a white Christmas or a warm-weather one (hey, string lights don’t have to be limited to evergreens), there’s one thing you absolutely need: a vacation. Instead of hosting the whole extended family or sleeping on a trundle at your mom’s (not to mention stressing about big batch recipes for a crowd), why not get out of town to one of the 11 best Christmas resorts that know how to do holiday cheer? Below, I’ve rounded up both domestic and international getaways, from the all-inclusive Mohonk Mountain House in New York’s Hudson Valley to Beaverbrook, a hidden gem in Surrey, England, that will delight fans of The Holiday. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family or with a pack of friends, each property promises rest, relaxation and seasonal festivities. Time to pack your suitcases.
The 11 Best Christmas Resorts for a Stress-Free Holiday Season
from the Cotswolds to Laguna Beach, California
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1. Fairmont Scottsdale Princess (Scottsdale, AZ)
- Why We Love It: pleasantly warm weather, traditional outdoor winter activities
- All-Inclusive: no
“The Princess Scottsdale makes you realize why people ‘take to the spas’ in winter. This sprawling resort has just about everything, including fantastic on-site food (the only meal I regretted was the one I ate off the property!), six pools, myriad golf courses and even a floral arranging studio,” raves PureWow editor-in-chief Jillian Quint. “They really do it up for the holidays, making a dessert oasis thoroughly Christmas-ready.”
With daytime temps well into the 70s during the holidays, you can spend your mornings lounging by the pool and your evenings (which dip into the 50s) practicing your triple axel at the ice-skating rink. Yep, you read that correctly. While we thought “desert ice skating” was an oxymoron, this Southwestern resort somehow pulls it off (magic?) along with other classic Christmas festivities—Santa visits, an enchanting train ride and so much more—which you can partake in without the parka.
- Why We Love It: close proximity to Paris, peaceful countryside oasis, newly renovated
- All-Inclusive: no
Paris in the holiday season is a true delight (I should know, I lived there), but when you’re ready to see something quintessentially French that’s not the Eiffel Tower, you need to book yourself a stay at the Abbaye des Vaux de Cernay. I discovered it several years ago in the height of summer, but it’s truly breathtaking year-round—and the French know how to celebrate Christmas. It’s located in the Chevreuse Valley west of Paris, just south of Versailles. Despite its close proximity to the city, this 12th-century former abbey is now a secluded idyll and intimate “domaine,” as the French would describe it, with a farm, the ruins of the monastery, a boating pond, pool, spa and plenty of activities, including classics like pétanque, croquet and tennis.
3. Mohonk Mountain House (New Paltz, NY)
- Why We Love It: abundance of winter activities, farm-to-table menu, mountaintop spa
- All-Inclusive: yes
Founded in 1869, Mohonk Mountain House is an iconic Hudson Valley—and Mid-Atlantic—resort. It’s a great getaway year-round, providing beautiful landscapes for the urban dwellers, but the holiday season is truly something else. The Victorian castle resort decks the halls, dialing the Christmas spirit up to an 11. The cheery decor of wreaths, garlands and amazing gingerbread constructions are just the tree topper to all the outdoor fun at this winter wonderland—skating, cross-country skiing, snow tubing, the works. As an all-inclusive resort, Mohonk’s rates include meals, wifi, activities, entertainment, kids’ programming, wellness classes and more. The culinary program features local Hudson Valley ingredients, served in the sumptuous Main Dining Room, with in-room dining and lake-view seating available. Oh, and you can always pick up an espresso, midnight snack and bevy of treats at the Old Fashioned Soda Fountain. The last thing you’ll need to do is cozy up away from the cold in the spa. (Note that services aren’t included in the rate, but pricing includes gratuities.) Yoga, meditation and over 80 spa services are available.
4. Resort at Paws Up (Greenough, MT)
- Why We Love It: custom Christmas trees, outdoor spa, diverse dining experiences
- All-Inclusive: yes
Luxury log cabins, cozy leather couches and plenty of time cuddled up next to your personal fireplace—this place was built for Christmas. In fact, it’ll even give you a custom-decorated tree to keep in the comfort of your own lodge. What could make this more idyllic? A horse-drawn sleigh ride, of course. This rugged all-inclusive Montana resort is the stuff the holidays were made of. The Christmas package puts you up in a luxe home for five nights, and all meals and non-alcoholic beverages are included. And if you’re bringing kiddos along, they’ll go wild for a visit from Saint Nick on Christmas Eve and a chance to participate in the gingerbread house building contest. Here, even getting around is fun, with snowmobiles, dog sleds and sleighs at your disposal. Keep an eye out for Rudolph; he might be prancing through the Montana wilderness.
5. Montage Hotels Laguna Beach (Laguna Beach, CA)
- Why We Love It: holiday activities, seasonal dining, warm weather, oceanfront pool
- All-Inclusive: no
As someone who grew up in the San Francisco Bay, there’s nothing quite like a California Christmas. I have many memories of a trip down to LA during the holidays—for Disneyland, of course, and to see family, some of whom lived in the Laguna Beach area. The weather is oh-so-mild (dry and warm, compared to a more humid Florida, but not scorching) and I’m just going to say it: the Pacific Ocean is the best ocean. Especially for sunsets. Montage Laguna Beach puts you right in front of it, with all the holiday trappings, from the Champagne Brunch to afternoon tea, sunset s’mores and festive palm—not pine—trees bedecked in twinkling lights. And if you’re staying here on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, prepare to feast your heart out.
6. Beaverbrook (Surrey, United Kingdom)
- Why We Love It: fun for kids and adults, just south of London, classic holiday decor
- All-Inclusive: no
Headed to London for Christmas? You might want to take refuge from the bustle of Bond Street and abscond to Beaverbrook in Surrey, just south of the city. The 470-acre woodland estate was formerly the residence of the first Baron Beaverbrook—a politician and well-known publisher. Today, it transforms into a dazzling winter wonderland suitable for children and adults alike, offering many holiday packages. Fans of The Holiday starring Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz can book “Surrey on Film” between November 15 to January 31. During your stay, you’ll be motored around the Surrey Hills in a classic car, explore Shere, the town where Graham (Jude Law) and Amanda (Diaz) go on their first date, and retrace her steps across the footbridge. Those looking for traditional winter fun will want to reserve the Stay, Skate & Dine Package—ice skating in a real rink, topped off with bubbly and a meal at either the on-site Garden House or Dining Room. Throughout the season, the resort also screens festive films in the private cinema.
7. The Greenbrier Resort (White Sulphur Springs, WV)
- Why We Love It: seasonal events and activities, white sulphur springs, variety of seasonal packages
- All-Inclusive: no
Since 1778 (whoa), this resort has been an elegant haven for guests (including 26 presidents) visiting the picturesque Allegheny Mountains. But during the holidays, the place feels extra special, thanks to its annual “Gingerbread Ball,” grand tree lightings and activities (we’re looking at you, Holiday Mixology Class). If you’re looking to travel a little bit before Christmas, take advantage of the resort’s Pre-Holiday Package. The two-day getaway includes daily breakfast and a $100 resort credit per night, which can be redeemed for spa services, dinners and even carriage rides. Traveling as a family? Book one of the first three weekends of December, when Santa Claus hosts a bevy of festivities for young guests. Those intent on being out of town for Christmas can look forward to a slew of events and activities, ranging from a family Christmas tree decorating contest, tea time ornament decorating and a yule log ceremony to caroling, cookie decorating and the Winter Wonderland Dinner Party. Psst, the hotel is famous for its white sulphur spring waters and spa. Sounds like a Christmas present you deserve…
- Why We Love It: surrounded by sleepy villages, gorgeous Pacific Ocean views, renowned on-site golf course
- All-Inclusive: no
With 200 miles of beaches spanning nature preserves, rainforests and sleepy fishing villages, Riviera Nayarit is an idyllic Christmas destination for Snowbirds who need temps in the mid-80s. Conrad Punta de Mita is about 45 minutes north of Puerto Vallarta and the airport, surrounded by what are known as “Pueblos Mágicos”—”magical towns”. Think cobbled streets, delicious restaurants and artisan shops filled with local crafts. The crowning jewel of the region, however, is a slew of uninhabited islands, of which the Marietas Islands are most renowned, and the hidden Playa Escondida isn’t to be missed. But, you don’t need to wander far for a good time. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, family or group of friends, the property has plenty to keep all entertained. Swim in the ocean—or the infinity pool—go horseback riding, taste the local cuisine at the onsite restaurant, CODEX and enjoy beachfront dining at Mezquite, among the many culinary destinations. Christmas is an extra-special time to visit, as guests can partake in Mexican Mercado, which incorporates Mexican culture and holiday traditions into fun family activities, like cookie decoration, coffee roasting, cacao blending and sombrero painting. Those lucky to stay for Christmas can enjoy traditional Mexican Christmas Eve and Christmas dinners (the latter has an adults-only option). And it’s not Christmas without presents, so of course Santa will stop by to delight the kids.
9. Wentworth Mansion (Charleston, SC)
- Why We Love It: in Charleston's historic district, Dickens Dinner, exclusive curated experience
- All-Inclusive: no
Hotel, schmotel—we’re staying in a 19th-century, 24,000-square-foot mansion. Smack-dab in the middle of Charleston’s historic district, the common areas alone, brimming with gorgeous Christmas decor, will provide all the cozy holiday comfort you could ask for. Bookings also include breakfast, cocktail hour (with appetizers) and in-room beverages (coffee, espresso, water and soft drinks). The Holiday Package is a perfect couple’s getaway, with a walking tour of the city’s festive downtown. But if you want more, you’ll want a reservation for the “Dickens Dinner,” at which a local historian orates A Christmas Carol while you dine on a four-course meal inspired by the novel. (Hot tip: It’s so popular, it’s now waitlist only, so get yourself on it, stat.)
10. The Sagamore Resort (Bolton Landing, NY)
- Why We Love It: plethora of winter activities, special holiday events, sprawling indoor entertainment center
- All-Inclusive: no
Deck the halls, trim the trees and prepare thyself for a feast of feasts at this historic resort on Lake George. Along with all the winter Adirondack offerings—ice-skating, skiing and building a snowman or two—the holiday schedule is packed with special events: Holiday Movie marathons, history walks, cookies and cocoa, a Menorah lighting and family activities like bingo and Build-a-Bear. If you’re staying through the New Year, get ready for an epic bash in the ballroom, complete with a DJ, midnight champagne toast and plenty of food. (Bonus: There’s a kids’ version, too, with party favors, a midnight balloon drop and snacks.)
11. The Keystone Resort (Summit County, CO)
- Why We Love It: night skiing, world’s largest snow fort, sleigh rides, lakeside village
- All-Inclusive: no
Snow-capped mountains surround this resort in the middle of the White River National Forest, which boasts three peaks, five above-tree-line bowls and night skiing. And here, newbies needn’t worry. The resort allows you to easily book lessons, lift tickets and rental equipment—with discounts available for its guests. Even if you’re not a daredevil sportsman, there’s plenty to amuse both yourself and the kids. They’ll have a blast running through the world’s largest snow fort, taking a sleigh ride and practicing their quadruple axels. Meanwhile, you may want to hit up the spa for its many amenities, from the sensory deprivation tank to the numerous facials and body treatments. End your day with a warm holiday drink—think spiked hot cocoa or a classic peppermint latte—by the fire. (Day passes and memberships are also available.) (Day passes and memberships are also available.
