Hotels I Have My Eye On For 2021
Each January I compile a list of standout hotels and resorts around the globe that I have my eyes set on for that year’s upcoming travel aspirations. I wanted to start this year off the same, but, as with every aspect of life, the way we travel changed in 2020, so this year’s list is slightly different. How so? It focuses solely on properties in the United States.
I know some of you are not yet ready to travel in any capacity, while others are itching for new stamps in your passport. Given international travel bans and the hard-to-navigate, ever-changing COVID-19 restrictions for open countries, even if we would be comfortable traveling outside the United States, we have to ask ourselves, is it worth all the uncertainties right now? While I’m hopeful the day of travel-how-we-knew-it (or at least a similar version) will arrive sooner than later, until it comes I’m enjoying exploring our own backyard! As the world’s borders began shutting down last spring, I found myself extremely grateful for the diversity our country provides - cultural, geographical and topographical . Though we can’t freely travel the continents, as Americans we can visit the shores of both the Atlantic and Pacific. We can sink our toes into a sandy Florida beach. We can explore the enchanting deserts of the Southwest. We can traverse three mountain ranges and ski their white slopes come winter. With awe-inspiring national parks and iconic sites weaving coast-to-coast, there is so much to discover and now is the time.
So, with that being said, below are the 12 hotels and resorts that I have my eye on for 2021 domestic travel. Some have been on my radar for awhile while some are new discoveries (so new, in fact, that almost half are set to open their doors this year!). From a luxurious, retro-cool alpine hotel in Jackson Hole, to a design-forward, communal style retreat in Far West Texas, the list is diverse in locales, experiences and price range represented. While I’ll be thrilled to check-in to even one of these properties this year, this list has sparked my wanderlust and inspired my 2021 travel plans, as I hope it does yours!
Craving more inspiration? Check out my 2020 and 2019 list of must-stay properties, many of which are also located across America. Safe travels, friends!
Caldera house
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
To kick things off, I’m leading this list of a dozen USA properties with the most luxurious and exclusive of them all, the Jackson Hole intimate boutique hotel, Caldera House. So, what makes this retro-cool alpine hotel in the heart of Teton Village so exclusive? For starters, Caldera House has only 8 guest suites (four four-bedroom suites and four two-bedroom suites) each “boasting their own fully equipped chef’s kitchen, dining area, living room, and outdoor space with mountain views”, not to mention to-die-for design and attention to detail. The modern-meets-Western aesthetic continues throughout the hotel in the well-equipped fitness center and spa, two dining options, and gear rental shops. Located steps away from the ski tram, you can literally roll out of bed and be on the slopes! Wintertime activities go beyond the ski hill with private excursions ranging from a sleigh ride through the national elk refuge to backcountry heli-skiing. And while the winter adventures are alluring, the property is a year-round destination offering just as much to discover in summer. Seriously, if you’re looking for a little wanderlust, just scroll through the Caldera House gallery and you’ll be dying for a Jackson Hole vacation.
CAMP WANDAWEGA
Elkhorn, Wisconsin
To take things in the complete opposite direction, in both terms of location and luxury, let’s head from Wyoming to Wisconsin to the charming Camp Wandawega. Situated between Milwaukee and Chicago, this rustic property is a true camp with the simple purpose to connect people to the simple pleasures of simpler times. While the camp prefers to rent out the entire property, you can find some of their “surplus inventory” available through Airbnb if you’re traveling alone or with a small group. From vintage cabins overlooking the lake to a bunkhouse that can sleep 24 guests, the range of accommodations is vast but all extremely rustic and no-frills. In fact, the camp has posted a “Manifesto of Low Expectations” they encourage guests to read before booking. Though unrefined, don’t be fooled into thinking Camp Wandawega has no charm. In fact, just scroll through the camp’s Instagram and you’ll discover quite the contrary! The property is fueled by creatives who share the same vision of rediscovering simpler times. And who doesn’t want that in 2021?
Enchantment Resort
Boynton Canyon, Arizona
When I think of how to describe the rugged grandeur of the Southwest landscape, the word that sticks in my mind is enchanting, which is fitting since the next property on this list is Enchantment Resort in Sedona, Arizona. “Set on 70 acres of panoramic natural terrain, Enchantment Resort is located in the spiritual heart of Sedona, surrounded by the towering red rock walls of Boynton Canyon.” Housing Sedona’s best restaurants, panoramic views of red rock formations, over 140 weekly activities and traditional casita-inspired accommodations, Enchantment Resort is the perfect home base to explore the wonders of Arizona and Native American culture. And when you’re done exploring, relax poolside or at the award-winning Mii amo spa.
Half-MILE FARM
Highlands, North Carolina
While most of us are sticking to domestic travel as of late, what we are gravitating to even more are long weekend trips in driving distance from our homes. After our stay at Blackberry Farm in September, I began researching hotels and resorts in Tennessee’s neighboring states and stumbled upon Half-Mile Farm in North Carolina. I’m so glad I did! This adults-only luxury inn is ideal for two or three slow days of curling up by the fire, playing a few rounds of golf, and strolling the property’s 14 acres of fields, forests, streams and lakes. While it seems hard to choose between spending your nights in a wooden cabin, a forest suite or a historic farmhouse, it’s confident to say whichever accommodation you choose will be beautiful, cozy and relaxing.
Willow House
Big Bend National Park, Texas
To be honest, Far West Texas isn’t high on my bucket list (well, it’s not on the list). That was, until I found myself scrolling through an image gallery of a stunning desert retreat that beautifully blends into the raw desert that surrounds it, suddenly leaving me wondering when I could get to Terlingua, Texas. Welcome to Willow House - “a twelve casita desert retreat on over 250 acres of private land. With unobstructed views of the Chisos Mountain Range, it is the perfect location to relax and unwind in Far West Texas. Its close proximity to Big Bend National Park allows guests easy access to the Rio Grande River, Chisos Basin hikes, and everything else the area has to offer.” The design-forward, communal style retreat allows guests to mingle and cook with friends, old and new, in the Main House, as well as privacy in individual guest rooms. To me, it seems the perfect place to escape with a group of friends for a few days of exploration and rest!
Lake Kora
Adirondack Blue Lake Mountains, New York
Anyone else wish they could check-in for the summer to a glamorous Upstate New York family camp after watching The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel? Me too! Combining the nostalgia of summer camp with the luxuries of a 5-star resort, Lake Kora is the closest thing I’ve seen to this dream come true. In fact, this historic Adirondack Great Camp was once the playground for American aristocrats. Today, Lake Kora provides campers endless outdoor activities and more than comfortable accommodations among 6 lakeside lodges, complete with stone wood-burning fireplaces, vintage soaking tubs, wood-walled bathrooms and original furnishings carved 100 years ago on-site. As an all-inclusive resort, once you arrive there’s nothing to think about other than how you want to leisurely spend each day.
Note: For the 2021 summer season, the resort will only be rented out in its entirety, for a nightly rate of $22k. That dream of a great summer camp is going to have to wait another year!
AMAN NEW YORK
Manhattan, New York
If you haven’t caught on yet, this year’s list is entirely focused on hotels whose locales are grounded in the exploration of the great outdoors, as I believe most of us felt a draw to nature in 2020 and believe that will continue, especially in terms of travel for the near future. With that said, if any hotel brand could get me excited to book a city trip in 2021, it would undoubtably be Aman, which is exactly what they’ve done with the upcoming spring opening of Aman New York. After our initial Aman stay in 2019, I have become a member of their cult-like following. Put one of their swoon-worthy properties in my favorite city and it’s a guarantee I’ll be checking it out! With an enviable location in the heart of Manhattan (the corner of Fifth Avenue and 57th Street to be exact), Aman NY boasts Central Park views, a subterranean Jazz Club, and a three story spa complete with fire pits and daybeds. While many NYC hotel properties can list similar amenities, it’s Aman’s sense of peace, space and privacy that is sure to set it apart.
San Luis Creek Lodge
San Luis Obispo, California
With a love for interiors, it’s no surprise it’s a hotel’s design and aesthetic that’s the first thing to capture my attention, as was the case with the San Luis Creek Lodge. I don’t remember how I discovered this sleepy California town property, but I’m glad I did! This reinterpreted lodge halfway between San Francisco and Los Angeles “combines a contemporary farmhouse inspiration and a Central Coast bohemian flair. Borrowing influences from the nearby wine making region and California beaches, San Luis Creek Lodge seeks to invoke the culture and design inherent in the surrounding area and community.” To be honest, I’m not sure the next time I’ll be visiting California, but if your travels take you on a road trip along the Golden State’s coast, book a night or two here for a unique California experience.
Bishop’s Lodge
Santa Fe, New Mexico
A few years ago I visited Santa Fe for the first time and was captivated by the culture, architecture and cuisine. That trip holds a special place in my heart as it was my daughter’s first trip at just 3 months old! With our time in the Land of Enchantment split between Taos and Santa Fe, I feel as though I didn’t get to experience all the city has to offer. I’d love to return, and when I do, I’ll be booking a stay at Auberge Resort Collections Bishop’s Lodge. This legendary lodge, set on over 300 secluded acres, offers the best of both worlds as it’s just minutes from both the Santa Fe National Forest and historic downtown. For accommodations, guests can choose from suites outfitted with kiva fireplaces and plunge pools to multi-bedroom casitas with all the comforts of home. There’s even a 12-bedroom bunkhouse with a 2-story stone fireplace perfect for large families and groups. The recently restored property (which is set to open in March 2021) offers a wide-range of activities rooted in Southwestern tradition, such as horseback riding, mescal tastings, guided art gallery visits, and candlelit sound bathing meditation sessions.
The Cloudveil
Jackson Hole, Wyoming
With a handful of hotels that I’m more than curious to check out (two making this short list alone!), I think it’s safe to say a Jackson Hole trip is in my future. This second Jackson Hole property is the yet to be opened The Cloudveil. Set in the heart of town, this Autograph Collection Hotel “will draw upon the town’s signature Western style, while bringing understated luxury and a refined, yet relaxed sensibility to the valley. Rooted in the destination, people, and soul of Jackson Hole, The Cloudveil name gives both a nod to the Cloudveil Dome within the Teton Range, while also invoking the veil of clouds lifting to reveal the transformational journey guests will undoubtedly embark on as they experience the natural wonder and enduring character of Jackson Hole.” Combining easy access to two National Parks and world-class ski resorts with stylish and detail-driven guest rooms and dining options, The Cloudveil is sure to be one of Jackson Hole’s new hot spots. For updates regarding its opening, signup here.
the lake house
Canandaigua, New York
Welcome to The Lake House, where nostalgia meets new memories in New York’s Finger Lakes region. Set on the shores of pristine Canandaigua Lake, this historic property is anything but dated, with a bright, fresh aesthetic full of charm and infused with artistic details in both the guest rooms and public spaces. Whether you’re looking for adventure on the lake, pampering in the spa, or relaxation during a restorative yoga session or guided meditation, there’s plenty to keep your days filled. Or not, if that’s what you’re in search of! The region is home to stunning surroundings, clear lakes, rich local culture, wineries, and year round activities like hiking and snowshoeing, swimming and boating. If you’re looking for a retreat from the stresses of everyday life in the Northeast, book a room at The Lake House.
Montage Big Sky
Big Sky, Montana
Possibly the resort opening I’m most excited about in 2021 is Montage Big Sky. For those of you unfamiliar, I grew up in Montana and the older I get, the deeper my love for my home state grows. When I can combine my passion of sharing Montana travel recommendations with my passion for great resorts, I’m a happy girl! And that’s exactly why I’m beyond excited about the much anticipated opening of a world-class luxury resort in Big Sky, the country’s largest ski resort, second only to Whistler. With over 5,800 skiable acres, an average of 400 inches of snowfall each year, 300 runs and 38 lifts (some of the most advanced in the country - heated seats included!), if you’re serious about skiing, a trip to Big Sky is a must. Until recently, Big Sky has been the best-kept secret in the skiing world, known only to locales and prominent part-time residents. But times are changing and the arrival of a luxury resort is much needed. Montage Big Sky will be a ski-in/ski-out property in the exclusive Spanish Peaks Mountain Club featuring “a modern mountain design inspired by the timeless setting”. I have no doubt it will be anything but stunning.
An opening date has yet to be announced, but you can sign up for updates here. For more information on Big Sky and visiting Montana in winter, here are my recommendations.
