Book by: ASAP
Travel by: Through March
The deal
It’s never too soon to start planning a vacation, especially when a little advanced planning means big savings. We’ve locked in four early-booking ski deals exclusive to Top 25 subscribers, and hand-picked two great pre-season mountain vacations. Head for the hills this fall or winter and save up to 40 percent with added perks like spa discounts and complimentary wine. Pick from mountain resorts in Telluride, Vail, the Hudson Valley, Aspen, the Catskills, and more. Rates start at just $71/night, but the empty slopes and gone-to-heaven views are priceless.
TOP 25 EXCLUSIVE DEALS & PERKS
Surrounded by the spectacular San Juan Mountains in southwestern Colorado, the Mountain Lodge Telluride has spacious accommodations with working gas fireplaces, gourmet kitchens, and private balconies — all with stunning mountain views. Guests of this posh slope-side resort enjoy a prime location midway up Telluride Mountain with ski-in/ski-out facilities.
Deal details: Book three nights or longer by October 31 to enjoy 40 percent off on stays through April 4, 2010. Rates start from $71/night in November and go up to $85/night in February/March with the discount.
Book it: Visit www.mountainlodgetelluride.com and enter special promotional code SHERMANS.
The resort town of Vail is a popular ski destination come winter — and hotel rates tend to be sky-high during the peak months. Luckily, Destination Resorts Vail has a limited-time early-bird special that will save you a bundle at one of their eight condo properties. Each condo unit has a full kitchen, private balcony, and gas fireplace.
Deal details: Simply book by October 31 to receive 20 percent off a 3-night stay, 25 percent off a 4-night stay, or 30 percent off stays of five nights or longer. Rack rates for 2-bedroom condos in early December start at around $215/night, but you’ll pay as little as $150/night by booking early. This offer is valid for travel between November 25 and April 18, 2010. Plus, Top 25 subscribers receive a late, noon, check-out — just in case you want to fit in a few extra runs on the morning of your departure.
Book it: Visit www.destinationresortsvail.com or call 970-476-1350 and mention Sherman’s.
Celebrate the arrival of autumn in New York’s Hudson Valley, an area praised for brilliant fall foliage, up-and-coming wineries, and dramatic white stone cliffs. Located on the scenic Shawangunk ridge just 90 miles from New York City, the historic Mohonk Mountain House has over 85 miles of trails tailor-made for hiking or snow-shoeing, along with breathtaking lake views, and a brand-new 30,000-square-foot spa. Choose from two special seasonal packages for an outstanding fall escape with all meals included.
Deal details: The Apple Festival package celebrates the apple harvest with midweek rates as low as $195 per person. Book your stay from September 7-30 for tasty perks like apple pancakes at breakfast and apple cocktails in the evening. Or, visit during the Pumpkin Festival from October 1-November 24 for midweek rates as low as $252 per person. Plus, Top 25 readers receive free access to the spa’s heated mineral pools, sauna, and solarium.
Book it: Visit www.mohonkexclusives.com or call 1-866-666-3146 and mention ShermansTravel to receive free spa access.
Located at the foot of Aspen Mountain’s powder-packed slopes in Colorado’s picturesque high country, The Gant Resort provides an ideal base for an ultimate winter ski getaway. This posh mountain lodge boasts 140 upscale condominiums with luxurious amenities like wood-burning fireplaces, fully equipped kitchens, and daily housekeeping.
Deal details: Rack rates in December start at around $195/night for a standard 1-bedroom suite, but you’ll save up to 30 percent with the early-bird special. The Summer Snow Saver promotion entitles guests to a 30 percent discount on stays of 4 nights or longer, or 15 percent off a single night’s stay, for travel between November 26 and April 11, 2010. Plus, Top 25 subscribers enjoy perks like guaranteed late check-out and a complimentary bottle of wine upon check-in. Book by November 15.
Book it: visit www.gantaspen.com and enter special promotional code SHERGT.
MORE EARLY-BOOKING MOUNTAIN DEALS
Experience the stunning scenery of Oregon’s Cascade Mountains with a fall or winter stay at the Seventh Mountain Resort. Bordered by the Deschutes National Forest and Mt. Bachelor, this upscale lodge offers a wide range of seasonal outdoor activities from whitewater rafting trips to high-altitude treks, ice-skating lessons, and guided tours by snowmobile. With the resort’s Two and Free special, you’ll get your third night free and a $50 voucher to use towards activities or dining. Rates for standard 1-bedroom suites start at just $139/night this September 8 through March 31, 2010. To book, visit www.seventhmountain.com or call 1-800-452-6810.
Whether you’re an avid hiker or just enjoy taking leisurely strolls, the varied trails of New York’s Catskill Mountains will let you experience nature at its best. The I Like to Hike package available year-round at the Roxbury Motel provides guests with maps and a personalized itinerary for a trek through the forest, including packed gourmet trail lunches for two and a flask of Bordeaux wine. If the hike causes your muscles to ache, don’t worry: This deal also includes complimentary 2-day passes to the hotel’s Shimmer Spa with a relaxing 2-hour couple’s massage. Package rates start at $543 for a 2-night weekend stay in one of the motel’s uniquely furnished studios, and prices are even lower on weekdays. To book, visit www.theroxburymotel.com or call 1-607-326-7200.
The dollars
Based on double occupancy. Taxes and fees are additional.
The catch
Skis and hiking boots aren’t included.
is a guide to top travel deals and destinations. which features the best editor-screened deals from hundreds of travel providers and is delivered to over 2.5 million subscribers, free, each week. ShermansTravel also publishes to inspire, guide, and go.
