Sometimes you don’t need an international flight to feel like you actually went somewhere. Sometimes all you need is snow, a mountain, and a spa waiting for you at the end of the day.

This past weekend, I headed to Bretton Woods Ski Area in New Hampshire for a short winter getaway and stayed at the iconic Omni Mount Washington Resort. It ended up being the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation, and really special family time — ski during the day, spa and good food at night.

What made this trip extra meaningful for me is that I’ve been skiing since I was a kid. I learned to ski in the Alps of Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and Italy, and over the years I’ve also skied in New Zealand. In the U.S., I’ve only skied one other location before this trip — so I don’t throw around “great mountain” lightly. And honestly? Bretton Woods was fantastic.

It was also really nice to spend this time with family. My dad is from northern Maine and has been skiing since he basically learned how to walk. He is an excellent skier, but what meant the most to me was how kind and patient he was while I warmed back up after not skiing in a bit. No pressure, no rushing — just easy runs, encouragement, and a lot of laughs.

If you’re looking for a winter weekend escape in New England that combines skiing, great dining, spa time, and time with people you love, this combo is hard to beat.

From ski layers to spa cozy, here’s exactly what I packed for this weekend getaway — tap the button below to see it all.

Shop My Ski Weekend

Getting There: Flying into Manchester, NH

We flew from BWI (Baltimore/Washington International) into Manchester, New Hampshire Airport (MHT) and then drove about 2 hours to the Omni Mount Washington Resort.

Manchester Airport was honestly a dream — small, clean, easy to navigate, and not chaotic at all. From landing to baggage claim, it took no time, and it felt like a breath of fresh air compared to major hubs.

The only downside of the travel day was getting there. We flew Southwest, and it was a full-on travel circus. We had to switch planes three times out of BWI, which was ridiculous for what should have been a short flight. Safe to say, I will not be flying Southwest again anytime soon.

I am, and will always be, a Delta girl at heart.

Once we were on the road from Manchester, the drive itself was easy and scenic — very “you’re going somewhere cozy and snowy” vibes as you get closer to the mountains.

Skiing at Bretton Woods Ski Area

Bretton Woods is New Hampshire’s largest ski area, and the whole experience felt smooth and easy from start to finish.

We booked our lift tickets and rental gear online ahead of time, which I highly recommend. When we arrived, we picked up our lift tickets and rentals and were on the mountain quickly — no chaos, no standing in long lines, just straight into ski mode.

The gondola ride to the summit was such a great way to start the day — warm, smooth, and with beautiful views of the White Mountains as you climb. After about three runs, we stopped at the café at the top for hot cocoa and light snacks, which honestly felt like a reward in itself. Sitting at the top of the mountain warming up before heading back out is one of those simple ski moments that just hits.

We skied in classic New England winter conditions — fresh snow, crisp air, and truly scenic views. The trails were incredibly well groomed, and the whole mountain felt like a winter wonderland. At one point, feeling confident and encouraged (thanks, Dad), I even tackled a black diamond — and it was awesome. Challenging, smooth, and so satisfying once I made it down.

Coming from someone who learned to ski in Europe and has skied internationally, what stood out to me was how well organized everything felt — from ticketing and rentals to lifts and trail flow. It felt approachable for beginners but still fun and rewarding for experienced skiers, which is not always an easy balance to strike.

Bretton Woods Ski Costs (1 Day)

• Military lift ticket: $109
• Regular 1-day lift ticket: $129
• 1-day ski rentals: $74
• Summit café cocoa & snacks: about $5–$12

From Ski Boots to Spa Robe at the Omni Mount Washington

After a full day on the slopes, we headed to the Omni Mount Washington Resort, which honestly feels like stepping into a winter movie. The building itself is absolutely gorgeous and full of history — one of those classic grand resorts that makes you feel like you’ve time-traveled.

The real highlight for me was the spa.

I booked a 50-minute Swedish massage, and it was exactly what my ski legs needed. The heated massage table and robe warmer were small touches, but they made the whole experience feel extra luxurious.

After my massage, I spent time in both the sauna and steam room… and somehow had both completely to myself. No small talk, no rush — just quiet heat and sore muscles slowly turning back into functional legs again. It was one of those moments where you realize how badly your body needed it.

Omni Mount Washington Spa Prices

• 50-minute Swedish massage: $170
• Spa day pass (sauna & steam room): $50

A Quick Note on the Resort

The Omni Mount Washington is beautiful and incredibly historic — but it is also very much a historic property. The resort is scheduled for a remodel in March, and honestly, I do think it’s time.

While the charm and architecture are part of what makes it special, there were plumbing and heating issues throughout the resort during our stay. Nothing that ruined the trip, but enough to notice. I’m actually excited to see what it looks like after the renovations, because with some modern upgrades, this place is going to be next-level.

It already has amazing bones — it just needs a refresh to match the experience.

Dining at the Omni Mount Washington Resort

One of the things I loved about staying at the Omni is having great dining options right on property.

We had dinner at both 1902 and Stickney’s, and both offered really solid food and drink selections. Whether you’re looking for something a little more elevated or just a cozy post-ski meal, both worked perfectly.

We also spent time in the Cave Bar, which was a fun, relaxed way to end the night. Watching football with a drink in hand in such a unique, historic space was such a vibe — casual, social, and a nice contrast to spa quiet time.

Restaurant & Bar Price Ranges

• Entrées at 1902 & Stickney’s: $25–$45
• Cocktails & wine: $12–$18
• Cave Bar food: $12–$25
• Cave Bar drinks: $8–$16

Why This Weekend Trip Worked So Well

What I loved most about this trip was how easy and balanced it felt. We didn’t need a packed itinerary or complicated plans. It was simply:

✔️ Ski during the day
✔️ Eat good food
✔️ Spa, steam, and relax at night
✔️ Spend time with family
✔️ Sleep like a rock
✔️ Repeat

It was the kind of short trip that actually makes you feel like you got away — sore legs, relaxed shoulders, and a brain that finally slowed down.

Would I Do This Trip Again?

Absolutely. Bretton Woods + the Omni Mount Washington is such a good winter combination: outdoor adventure followed by serious comfort.

For someone who learned to ski in the Alps and has skied around the world, that says a lot. And doing it alongside my dad — who has been skiing his whole life — made it even better.

Once the renovations are done, I think this will be an even better experience — and one I’d happily return to.

If you’re looking for a New England ski weekend that mixes skiing with a little indulgence (and maybe a black diamond or two), this one is a really solid choice.

Ski first. Spa second. Dinner third. Family fourth. Repeat as needed.

Dive safe, explore passionately, and remember…