Four Seasons Jackson Hole USA

Where Is It: Teton Village, Jackson Hole, Wyoming USA.

Why Go: It is the best luxury hotel in one of the most authentic US West/Rocky Mountains locations.

Best For: A high end ski or summer mountain getaway for couples.

Three Things We Loved: The slope-side location, the authentic Western vibe, the Ski Concierge.

The Ultimate Factor: It has one of the top spas in the US.

Overview

As far as aspirational holidays (or let’s face it, at my age a bucket list) goes, skiing at the famed Jackson Hole, Wyoming, was definitely one at the top. And if we dream, we might as well dream big, right? So slope-side accommodation at one of the world’s glamour brand luxury hotels, The Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole, is a must, especially if you want a romantic getaway. Famous for its Rocky Mountain western cowboy town location, its proximity to Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Parks, and extreme ski slopes, Jackson Hole in winter attracts a heady mix of thrill-seeking powder hounds, generations of wealthy ski families and nature loving skiers and boarders from around the world.  

Located in Teton Village, and nestled against the base of the jaw dropping mountains which frame the ‘hole’ or valley, Four Seasons Resort is the sumptuous slope-side mecca for those who prefer to do all things, even ‘roughing it out west’, in high style and with understated luxury. The short drive from Jackson Airport, which has direct connections to major east and west coast US entry points, offers a scenic welcome to the area. And if you’re lucky, a glimpse of the plentiful local native wildlife such as moose, which rival ‘koalas crossing’ for tourist goggle value.

The Accommodation

There are 124 guest rooms and suites, and in this location awesome views come almost as standard; of the mountain backdrop, the valley or Teton Village. Most rooms boast private, teak furnished balconies and furnishings are rustic luxe, with dark wood and natural stone warmed by muted tones. The upscale ‘dude’ ranch vibe is reflected in authentic local artworks and western fabric designs.  The practical details are all there too, from DVD and smart TV entertainment system to business-dedicated space and high speed internet for those who can, or must, choose to ignore their compellingly engaging location. 

The sumptuous five-bedroom Presidential Suite at the top of the accommodation line, offers panoramic views of majestic Rendezvous Mountain from every bedroom (each with its own balcony) and equally stylish entertaining, living and working areas. Bringing the family or a few friends? There are also 34 private residences with 2- 5 bedrooms, some with lofts. Cathedral ceilings, gas fires, marble en-suites, luxury appointments, furnishings, the latest technology, entertainment centres and panoramic views are all there, and ensure a vacation stay like no other, with more than just the comforts of home.

Where We Stayed

Our generous sized Mountain-View Room was certainly well named with a view overlooking the resort’s heated pool dazzling against its snowy backdrop, and the relaxation decks at the base of the ski runs which tilt dizzyingly through trees towards the summit. People-watching was a bonus as skiers and boarders of all abilities finished their runs and headed in for drinks on the heated terrace of the Ascent Lounge. At night the slopes are backlit and the pool took on a mystical quality, often viewed through the steam and snowflakes and it was easy, from our oversized armchairs by the cosy gas fire, to wish we were brave enough to venture into the pool with a cocktail to experience that joy firsthand.

Although a ‘standard’ room, the two double beds made for a good night’s rest for both my 188cm-tall son and me, with plenty of wriggle room and the room still seemed spacious enough in the living space, workstation and bar and the thoughtfully provided humidifier ensured we were able to adjust easily to the drier atmosphere of the mountains. Spacious cupboards and storage made for easy access to ski gear and luggage and the large tub in the ample marble bathroom was put to good use every night for post skiing soaks. 

What Else is There?

Dining options similarly reflect the Western theme with seasonal game, meat and fish on a varying menu from the casually elegant fine dining at Westbank Grill to the relaxed American pub-style skier fare and wide beer selection (my son’s favourite was the local Moose Drool) at the Handle Bar – or nab an outdoor fire-table on the heated terrace at the sleek Ascent Lounge, one of Jackson’s most popular après venues. Staying at the Four Seasons, the more tedious aspects of a ski/boarding holiday, such as the renting/storing and accessing of your gear between forays onto the slopes, are made easy, comfortable and stress-free with the dedicated Ski Concierge on hand and ski-in and ski-out access to the resort.  After a hard (or not!) day on the slopes the lavish in-house, Alpine Spa is nationally recognised as one of the top 100 spas in the US and will impress and de-stress the most avid spa goer with a comprehensive range of treatments and products in one of 16 treatment rooms or 2 private suites complete with its own Swiss shower, fire place and soaking tub. Or, for an additional fee, you can enjoy in the privacy of your own room. Or get into nature with an in-house naturalist guided half day wildlife safari.

The Verdict

Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole is at the apex of luxury accommodation at one of the world’s most desirable year round resort locations in an authentic US Western town. Go in winter or summer, but go.