Lake Tahoe: The Ritz-Carlton Ski-In/Ski-Out – A Luxurious Winter Escape

13031 Ritz-Carlton Highlands Court, Truckee, CA 96161

If you’re seeking a luxurious, family-friendly ski getaway, look no further than The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe. Nestled mid-mountain at Northstar California ski area, this gorgeous resort offers a true ski-in/ski-out experience, making it an ideal spot for both seasoned skiers and beginners alike. With ski lifts just steps from the hotel, you’re in for a seamless and relaxing winter vacation.

With 97 trails—more than any other California ski resort—and the largest concentration of snowboard trails in North America, Northstar caters to every level of skiing and snowboarding. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting, the mountain has you covered. We loved how The Ritz-Carlton offers a full ski valet service. After a long day on the slopes, you can simply hand off your gear to the valet, who cleans and stores it overnight. No need to lug your equipment back to your room! In the morning, your gear is prepped and waiting for you.

For those looking to learn or brush up on skills, the Northstar Ski and Snowboard School is a great option. The kids’ lessons (ages 3-12) are a hit, and for snowboarders, the Burton Snowboard Academy offers an unforgettable experience. Beyond skiing, the mountain boasts a variety of activities, including cross-country skiing, snowmobile rides, snow tubing, heli-skiing, dog sled tours, snowshoe hikes, geocaching, and ice skating down in The Village at Northstar. Truly, there’s something for everyone, no matter your adventure style.

After a full day on the slopes, nothing beats unwinding at The Ritz-Carlton’s luxurious spa. Unfortunately, during our stay, the spa was fully booked, but we made our way to Balance Holistic Health Spa in The Village at Northstar for massages. Though we had separate rooms, it was still a much-needed treat for our sore muscles after long days of skiing.

Food is another highlight at this resort. There are plenty of options on the mountain, including snack stands, bars, and full-service restaurants. However, our favorite spot to dine was the newly opened Zephyr Lodge, which offers a wide variety of options from American to Asian fusion, with ample seating and full heat—a great place to recharge during the day. Back at The Ritz-Carlton, we also enjoyed several meals at Manzanita Restaurant. Whether it was the breakfast buffet, a casual lunch, or their indulgent dinner menu (the halibut was my go-to!), each meal was superb. I appreciated how accommodating the chef and manager were, especially when I had dietary restrictions. Just be sure to double-check ingredients if you have food sensitivities—I learned this the hard way after discovering flour in the bean dip!

For a memorable night out, try The Art of the Cocktail experience at the Manzanita Bar. We learned the history behind some classic drinks, how to craft the perfect cocktail, and, of course, enjoyed tasting them. The bartenders were so skilled that they could craft custom cocktails based on what flavors we mentioned. The wine selection was also top-tier, with the sommelier hand-picking selections from their impressive cellar.

If you want to explore beyond the resort, take the eight-minute gondola ride down to The Village at Northstar, where you'll find plenty of shops, restaurants, and bars. One night, we dined at the award-winning Mikuni Japanese Restaurant & Sushi Bar, which was incredible, and on New Year's Eve, we enjoyed a special dinner at Tavern 6330’. They went above and beyond to accommodate my gluten-free pescatarian diet, ensuring I had an amazing meal. Afterward, we listened to a Journey tribute band and enjoyed drinks at the popular Chocolate Bar, where the signature martinis were to die for.

Returning to our room each night was pure bliss. Every evening, we were greeted with a hand-delivered treat—everything from crème brûlée to s’more kits. These little touches made our stay even more special. The room itself was incredibly comfortable, featuring a gas fireplace, cozy leather chairs, and floor-to-ceiling balcony doors that offered breathtaking views of the snow-covered mountains. The bathroom was a highlight, with its double sinks, stand-alone shower, and a huge, deep-soaking tub that was perfect for relaxing after a day on the slopes.

The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe is an ideal destination for both families and couples. With pet-friendly accommodations, family activities, and romantic touches like s’more roasting at the fire pit each evening, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you're seeking adventure on the slopes, relaxation at the spa, or simply a cozy retreat by the fire, this resort has it all.

From the ski valet to the indulgent dining, The Ritz-Carlton Lake Tahoe made our winter getaway unforgettable. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for a luxurious and convenient ski experience.