As a relatively new skier, the thought of visiting two all-inclusive French ski resorts made me anxious. Since I’m barely able to get off the beginner’s slope, I worried that the ski-centric focus of my trip to Club Med’s La Rosière and Val d’Isère resorts would be lost on me.
However, my perspective changed when I realized that “all-inclusive” doesn’t just apply to tropical getaways in the Caribbean and Mexico. It makes skiing accessible and enjoyable, whether you’re on the beginner slopes or tackling the black diamonds. Everything from unlimited food and drink to equipment and ski lifts is included in the price of your stay.
When I found out that Club Med, a pioneer of the all-inclusive resort experience, plans to open its first U.S. ski resort in Huntsville, Utah, I immediately added it to my bucket list. Known as Snowbasin, this new venture will be the company’s first five-star resort in the U.S., part of its “Exclusive Collection,” which stands out for its luxury accommodations and personalized service.
The resort will feature 320 rooms and include everything that made my past skiing experiences so enjoyable. One highlight for me was the hassle-free equipment rental. I arrived at the ski shop without a clue about what I needed, but the staff guided me through the process and helped me find the perfect gear.
Here’s the best part: I didn’t have to worry about returning the equipment. Each guest room has a personal locker in the ski area where I could store my gear. On checkout day, the staff took care of returning everything. For experienced skiers, equipment can be pre-requested and ready in your locker upon arrival.
Your stay also includes group ski lessons. While private sessions are available at an extra cost, I was amazed at how much I improved with the group lessons—I even advanced from the beginner hill to a green trail. Progress!
The new Utah resort offers even more to look forward to. It’s located at one of the most accessible ski areas in the U.S., with Olympic-level runs and convenient airport access. While many of Club Med’s European locations are hours from airports, Snowbasin is just a 45-minute drive from Salt Lake City Airport and was the venue for the Alpine events at the 2002 Winter Olympics.
With over 3,000 acres of trails ranging from gentle green runs for beginners like me to one of the highest vertical drops in North America, skiers of all experience levels will find something to enjoy. Plus, Snowbasin will offer ski-in, ski-out access—a feature I didn’t realize I’d love until I tried it.
Not a snow enthusiast? Snowbasin will have Club Med’s signature Kid’s Club for children, plus heated pools and a spa for those seeking relaxation over activity. In summer, guests can enjoy guided hikes and mountain biking adventures through the beautiful landscapes.
This new development is part of a larger initiative to enhance the Snowbasin area by adding more beginner trails, upgrading ski lifts, and investing in more lodging and shops at the base of the mountain.
My advice? Save the date. Although Snowbasin is set to open in 2024, it’s destined to become a must-visit spot for both skiers and Club Med enthusiasts.
