Sun Valley, Idaho is the “oldest” ski area in the United States and was started by Union Pacific Railway because of its location, terrain and its outstanding sunshine record. Sun Valley boasts two fabulous mountains, Baldy – considered by serious skiers as the country’s single best ski mountain, and Dollar – a beginner’s paradise with gentle, sunny slopes, groomed to perfection. Eighteen lifts provide access to more than 77 ski runs and 2,054 skiable acres. With the addition of seven new high-speed detachable quad chairlifts, Sun Valley’s lift capacity reaches 28,180 skiers per hour.

Since Sun Valley has always been a magnet for upmarket clientele and the Hollywood elite, this has always encouraged the spawning of many excellent restaurants and lodges on and off the mountain. There is no shortage of shops and art galleries in the area, so make sure you bring your platinum card!