Dreaming of waking up to fresh snow and hitting the slopes right from your doorstep? Moving to a ski resort town can be an incredible adventure and a major lifestyle shift. Whether you’re seeking more outdoor activities, a slower pace, or simply breathtaking mountain views, relocating to a ski resort brings unique considerations. Here’s what you need to know before making the move.
1. Prepare for the Elements
Snow and Ice Management: Living at a ski resort means a lot more snow than most people are used to. Be prepared to shovel driveways, de-ice your car, and stock up on winter supplies like snow tires, chains, and weather-resistant gear.
Winterizing Your Home: Look into ways to keep your home insulated and heating costs down, such as weather-stripping doors and windows, using energy-efficient heating systems, and ensuring your pipes are insulated to avoid freezing.
2. Get Ready for a New Daily Routine
Embrace Mountain Time: Life at a ski resort usually means a more relaxed pace, and the weather often dictates plans. Be prepared to adapt and enjoy a slower, nature-centered lifestyle.
Outdoor Gear Essentials: Stock up on quality winter wear, including layered clothing, waterproof boots, and thermal accessories. You’ll also need good storage for all your outdoor gear to keep it organized and accessible.
3. Accessibility and Transportation
Weather-Related Closures: Roads to and from ski resorts can close during extreme weather, so plan for possible delays and ensure you have backup supplies, especially during peak winter months.
Public Transit Options: Some resort towns have limited public transportation options, so it’s essential to know your transportation choices if you plan to rely on buses or shuttles. Some towns even offer free shuttles to local ski areas.
4. Adjust to the High Altitude
Altitude Sickness: Higher elevations can affect people differently, causing headaches, fatigue, or nausea. Ease into the altitude gradually, stay hydrated, and be mindful of your body’s needs.
Health and Fitness: Altitude and winter sports require cardiovascular fitness, so consider conditioning your body for increased physical activity.
5. Find a Year-Round Community
Meet the Locals: Many resort towns have a close-knit community that values sustainability and outdoor living. Get involved in local events or volunteer to meet people and become a part of the local culture.
Seasonal Shifts: Ski towns often experience seasonal rhythms, bustling in winter but quieter in summer. Be prepared for these fluctuations and embrace the different opportunities each season brings.
6. Prepare for Higher Costs of Living
Housing Market: Ski resort areas often have a competitive housing market, with high property values and rental costs. Research the housing market thoroughly and be prepared to pay more for a home in a high-demand location.
Cost of Goods and Services: Due to the remoteness of some resorts, goods and services, including groceries and utilities, may be pricier than in the city.
7. Embrace the Outdoor Lifestyle
Outdoor Recreation: Living near a ski resort means year-round outdoor activities—skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing in winter, and hiking, mountain biking, and fishing in summer.
Sustainable Practices: Many mountain communities are environmentally focused, so recycling, composting, and supporting local businesses are often valued.
8. Prepare for the Tourist Seasons
Busy Winter Months: Expect a surge in tourists during peak ski season. Traffic, crowded grocery stores, and booked-up restaurants are common in resort towns during winter.
Hidden Gems in Off-Season: Once the tourists leave, you’ll have the trails, cafes, and slopes nearly all to yourself. Off-season life offers a slower pace and a chance to connect more deeply with the natural surroundings.
9. Designing your Ski Home
Designing the interior of a ski home involves creating a cozy, functional, and inviting space that embraces the beauty of the outdoors while ensuring comfort. Here are the top four elements to focus on:
Warm & Natural Materials
Wood and Stone Accents: Use reclaimed wood beams, hardwood floors, and stone fireplaces to bring a rustic and warm feel to your space.
Natural Textures: Incorporate leather, wool, faux fur, and woven textiles for furniture, throws, and rugs.
Color Palette: Colors are earthy tones like browns, creams, and grays, complemented by pops of forest green or deep red.
Open-Concept Living Areas
Large Gathering Spaces: Design an open-plan living room with ample seating (like a sectional or cozy armchairs) around a central fireplace.
Panoramic Views: Install floor-to-ceiling windows to maximize mountain views and natural light.
Integrated Dining: Create a seamless flow between the kitchen, dining area, and living room, ideal for hosting après-ski gatherings.
Smart Storage Solutions
Mudroom/Entryway: Add custom cubbies, hooks, and benches for ski gear, boots, and outerwear.
Built-In Storage: Incorporate built-in shelves or hidden cabinets for a clean, organized look.
Equipment Racks: Install ski and snowboard racks in a designated area to keep gear accessible yet out of the way.
Cozy Bedrooms & Bathrooms
Bedroom Retreats: The most cozy bedding is to have layered bedding with soft duvets, blankets, and throw pillows and oversized headboards made of wood or upholstered fabrics for a luxe feel.
Spa-Like Bathrooms: Install heated floors, a soaking tub, and a walk-in rain shower. Use stone or tile with a natural finish to complement the mountain vibe.
Lighting: Add dimmable lighting with warm hues to create a relaxing ambiance.
By blending functionality with aesthetic warmth, your ski home can become the perfect retreat after a day on the slopes, embodying both elegance and comfort.
Moving to a ski resort town can be a life-changing adventure, offering beauty, peace, and endless outdoor activities. However, it requires a bit of adjustment and preparation to embrace the mountain lifestyle fully. With the right mindset and planning, you’ll be well on your way to thriving in your new snowy paradise!
