The wonder of winter

The wonder of winter

The purity of winter is nowhere more awe-inspiring than in the mountains of the northern hemisphere, where snow-blanketed peaks rear against the bluest of skies. The Alps and Rockies conjure visions of enlivening adventure, rosy-cheeked family moments and rest and recreation – all epitomised by two Aman destinations in France and the USA.

Amangani, USA

An eyrie in a winter wonderland

From its perch atop East Gros Ventre Butte in Wyoming, Amangani is a natural wonderland for snow sports enthusiasts and wildlife lovers alike. Evoking the atmosphere of the West’s pioneering days with redwood panelling and blazing log fires transforming into a winter wonderland.

Amangani’s ski season siren song is as irresistible as it is pure. Just a 20-minute drive away, the resort’s own private ski-in-ski-out ski lounge is situated in the heart of the alpine Teton Village in Jackson Hole, just steps from the Bridger Gondola and Aerial Tram which allow quick access to some of North America’s most impressive skiing and snowboarding terrain.

Tackle the world-renowned slopes of Jackson Hole, Snow King and Grand Targhee, go snowcat powder skiing on Peaked Mountain and heli-ski in the Snake River, Hoback, Palisades and South Teton Ranges – all within easy reach of Amangani’s mountain home. 

Amangani - Restaurant Elk_Amangani_Winter_Portrait.

Winter wildlife safaris

Those seeking an adventure off the ski slopes can explore the wildlife of Jackson Hole, Yellowstone and the Rocky Mountain West. Customised excursions take in the wildlife of the National Elk Refuge – possibly even its elusive wolves – while snowshoeing expeditions in pristine backcountry areas yield unprecedented opportunities for spotting elk, bison and mule deer. Ice skating, fat tire biking, winter fly-fishing and dog sled tours are further ways to get close to nature.

Aman Le Mélézin, France

Timeless mountain serenity

Set directly on the Bellecôte Piste in Courchevel, Aman Le Mélézin’s ski-in ski-out facilities are moments away from impeccably groomed ski slopes abundant with snow and an atmospheric après-ski scene. Open for the season from 9 December 2022 until 5 April 2023, the iconic alpine retreat is set to celebrate its 30th anniversary this year, marked with a host of new culinary experiences throughout December. 

Dedicated to the utmost enjoyment of winter, the hotel has perfected every aspect of the classic Alpine ski experience in true Aman style. Ski butlers ensure an effortless transition to and from the piste, while an exclusive First Tracks experience offers breathtaking views of Mont Blanc and La Grande Casse from 2,740m, and a solo run down the legendary, La Combe de la Saulire

Non-skiers are also well catered for with adventures such as self-piloted dog sledging, tobogganing, ice skating beneath the stars and guided snowshoeing expeditions ensuring guests of all-ages are entertained.  

Aman Le Melezin, Experiences Aman Le Melezin - Hot Air Ballon

An aerial perspective

There are few better ways to see the majestic Alpine landscape than from above – be it by hot-air balloon at sunrise, or from a helicopter or paraglider. But you don’t have to be airborne to enjoy the views. Discover a whole new way of experiencing the mountain with snowmobiling and snow-friendly fat bikes – perfect for cruising down tranquil forest trails. 

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A pilgrimage to the peaks

Join French photographer Yannick Boissenot and American adventure author David Page as they set out on ski mountain pilgrimage through the Grand Teton National Park. Departing at dawn from Amangani, they crisscross perfectly powdered peaks, coming face to face with the most challenging terrain and returning to tell their gallant tales. 

Winter warmth

With beauty in the eye of the beholder, there are those for whom the sight of pristine white sand and the warmth of winter sun is preferable to that of freshly fallen snow. Perfectly balancing Aman’s ski destinations at this time of year are those on the sun-rich shores of the Caribbean, the spectacular coast of Sri Lanka and Thailand’s famed beaches.

Featured winter sun destinations