Travelers seeking a summer retreat with fewer crowds and cooler temperatures should consider these four hotels located at higher elevations. Each offers outdoor activities, comfortable accommodations and a chance to enjoy mountain air away from the heat of lower-lying destinations.
© Gstaad Palace
Gstaad Palace
Iconic and steeped in Swiss tradition, Gstaad Palace invites guests to enjoy refined hospitality throughout the summer months. The hotel runs tennis weeks led by experienced pros, offers a full-service spa for restorative treatments and operates the Walig Hut—a lovingly restored Alpine cottage—open for lunch and overnight stays during the warmer season. It’s an elegant base for exploring the surrounding peaks and alpine trails.
© Montage Big Sky
Montage Big Sky
Perched above Montana’s wide-open landscapes, Montage Big Sky offers sweeping alpine views and comfortable summer temperatures in the 70s. It’s an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts: guests can go fly fishing in clear rivers, hike scenic trails, ride horseback across mountain meadows, raft whitewater or attend one of the area’s lively summer festivals. The resort blends restful luxury with easy access to adventure.
© Montage Deer Valley
Montage Deer Valley
Known for its ski-in/ski-out access in winter, Montage Deer Valley in Park City, Utah, becomes a hub for summer recreation during the shoulder season. The resort schedules a wide range of activities—from fly fishing and guided hikes to private archery lessons, horseback riding and watersports. In August, the property hosts a Star Party timed with the Perseid meteor shower, offering guests a memorable night of stargazing.
© The Hythe, a Luxury Collection Resort, Vail
The Hythe Vail
Set in Vail, Colorado, The Hythe is well suited for a tranquil summer getaway. The resort partners with local operator Adventure IO to offer curated, small-group experiences that highlight the region’s natural beauty. Typical activities include guided foraging walks, horseback fly-fishing trips, mountain-biking excursions, guided photography outings and chef-led tours of farmers markets—each designed to connect guests with the landscape and local flavors.