Tomorrow, the town of Punxsutawney, Pennsylvania, and its rodent mascot Phil will once again decide the seasonal fate of us all. Should Phil emerge from his burrow and see his shadow, we’re in for six more weeks of winter. If not, warm weather is on its way. Regardless of the shadowy outcome, we’ve rounded up warm and cold destinations perfect for those looking to kick off the sunnier season or dwell in the chill a little longer.
Less Winter?
Four Seasons Resort Palm Beach
If Phil’s shadow doesn’t make an appearance, getting a jump on the warm-weather season won’t be at all difficult if you jetset to this Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Atlantic resort on sunny Ocean Boulevard in Palm Beach. The vibe here is pure laid-back lavishness — floral prints brighten up guest rooms while pastels add an air of lightness and levity, just what the doctor ordered after a long, cold winter. The design is far from the only beachy element, however. Head to the patio at the Atlantic Bar & Grill or try the terrace of Graze to enjoy sun-soaked cocktails. Looking for a cooldown from the Floridian heat? An Evian spritz at your poolside lounge chair or an ice-cold popsicle should do the trick nicely.
This Mediterranean-style getaway in San Diego offers a beautiful mix of dusty reds, touches of gold and, of course, the natural and saturated greens and blues of the surrounding landscape, and it takes full advantage of its design with an open, airy atmosphere. Indoor melds with outdoor, giving a breezy sense to your stay. Grab your clubs and tee off on the Tom Fazio-designed course, request an afternoon of horseback riding on the beach, snorkel in the La Jolla caves — there’s no shortage of warm, outdoor activities at your disposal at the Five-Star Grand Del Mar.
More Winter?
If Phil sees his shadow, embrace the extra six weeks of winter by heading to Park City, Utah, and enjoying a chilly getaway at the Four-Star St. Regis Deer Valley. If you’re truly a snow fiend, ski out of the hotel and hit the surrounding range’s powder before coming right back in for drinks and dining with a mountain twist at Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s J&G Grill. If you’re more inclined to relax in the peaceful, snowy setting, cozy up to the fireplace in your room or take a dip in the split-level infinity pool.
As the only ski-in, ski-out resort in Aspen, the Five-Star Little Nell is a prime destination for any powder-loving winter traveler. Forget about the long checklist before heading out to carve the slopes on Aspen Mountain — the hotel’s ski concierge team will wax your skis, tune up your gear and even warm your boots pre-ski. After a long day of ski goodness, sip on some hot chocolate in front of the living room’s roaring fireplace or take a dip in the outdoor hot tub to limber up those muscles for the next day of winter fun.
Photos Courtesy of Starwood Hotels and Resorts Worldwide Inc., The Little Nell and The Grand Del Mar
