The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe Ski

When it comes to comfort, convenience and all round pampering, the Ritz Carlton Northstar is certainly up there with the best of them. From the moment you walk in, the staff cannot do enough to help you: from the bell boys, the warm and friendly reception staff, through to the waiting staff in the restaurants.

One of the greatest things about the Ritz Carlton Northstar is how convenient it is. Not only is it situated mid-mountain so the slopes are literally on the door step, but it is also close to Reno airport, the town of Truckee with its plethora of restaurants and its proximity to the other Lake Tahoe ski resorts.

The fact that the hotel is on the mountain means that you can ski right out of the hotel onto the 'Big Easy' run which is gentle enough for beginners and your skis will be ready and waiting for you courtesy of the team of ski valets. Access down to Northstar village is straightforward via the gondola which runs until.

The Ritz Carlton resembles more of a lodge-style hotel in terms of design and its dramatic location on the mountain with incredible views across to Nevada give you the feeling of being fully in a mountain environment.

Dining options are numerous, from Manzanita, the signature restaurant with its warm and homely feel, to the more food-on-the-go options in Cafe Blue with its much sought after Bluebottle coffee from San Francisco. The Living Room is very casual and in the relaxing Highlands Bar and Lounge and the latest offering is the Backyard BBQ & Grill, based on a 'blues, brews and BBQ' concept, serving some delicious barbeque favourites - the St Louis smoke ribs are an absolute must.

Skiing from the Ritz Carlton Northstar could not be easier. each morning the Mountain Concierge and ski valet will help you into your warmed boots and have your skis ready on the slope ready for an incredible day on the mountain. At the end of the day, they'll be waiting to help store your equipment away so you don't have to worry about it.

Each of the 170 rooms are generous in size, luxuriously appointed and feature a cosy fireplace, vast bathrooms, with deep soaking baths and separate showers, HD TVs and 24 hour in-room dining.

The enormous spa offers 17,000ft² of pure indulgence away from the slopes while the lap pool and indoor whirlpool provide a soothing respite away from the slopes.

The skiing at Northstar offers something for all levels with wide, groomed easy cruisers for beginners and steeper, tree-lined runs for intermediates and experts. The most challenging skiing can be found in nearby Kirkwood, covered under the same Epic ski pass.