My perfect ski vacation requires just three things: a cozy home on the slopes, a crackling fire and a good book. Maybe it’s because I’m from Northeast Ohio, where it takes 10 times as long to trudge up the hill as it does to slide down, but I’ve never been bitten by the ski bug.

Whistler, British Columbia, residence
But ski vacations? I’m always game. I just stay behind and après all day while my friends hit the slopes. The key (and the often-tricky bit) is finding a ski vacation house that lives up to those I’ve conjured in my mind.
Happily, a few weeks ago I happened upon my kind of powder stash: a collection of slopeside homes in all the very best mountain towns; beautiful homes that combine great design with five-star amenities.

Lake Tahoe, California, residence
These aren’t your average vacation houses. These are multimillion-dollar luxury residences that offer plenty of room for family and friends—think 3,500+ square feet, gourmet kitchens and lots of private outdoor living space—and are located in quiet, private enclaves.

Lake Tahoe, California, residence
But unlike the other homes on the block, you don’t have to buy these to enjoy them. These residences are all part of the Exclusive Resorts portfolio. The concept is akin to a country club model. To become a member, you pay a one-time (mostly refundable) membership fee, plus annual dues, and in exchange you get to enjoy a portfolio of luxury homes in locations throughout the American West and around the world.

Beaver Creek, Colorado, residence
Best of all, these homes come with dedicated vacation planners who handle every last detail of your stay, from dinner reservations to snowboarding lessons, grocery shopping to housekeeping. Want to end each day with a fireside massage? Done. Eat olives and brie every afternoon at 3:30? Easy.
And should you tire of visiting Whistler, Jackson Hole, Lake Tahoe, Vail, Deer Valley and Telluride (imagine that!), you’ll find gorgeous Exclusive Resorts homes everywhere from Tuscany to Turks & Caicos. To learn more and browse the entire Exclusive Resorts portfolio, visit exclusiveresorts.com or call 866-863-2688.