SUNRIVER RESORT, CENTRAL OREGON, USA

Located between the gorgeous town of Bend and the soaring volcanic cone of Mt Bachelor – a world-class ski resort in winter – Sunriver Resort is just as spectacular as its surroundings. Sitting pretty in 1335 ha of photogenic meadows and rolling hills, the resort is heaven for golfers with four majestic championship courses offering 63 holes, and a playground in summer with horse riding, kayaking and hiking all on site. I am staying in a recently refurbished Lodge Village King room, cocooned in bed as I watch the wintery sky outside. The property has 212 recently refreshed Lodge Village guestrooms and suites with stone gas fireplaces and private decks, as well as 33 River Lodge guestrooms and 300 luxurious vacation homes and condos to stay in.

In the morning, I step out onto the balcony to take in the view of the frost-tinged meadows complete with ghostly mist.

I spot a deer and retreat into the warmth of my room satisfied. My stay is all too short, but I am thoroughly impressed by the beautiful holiday lights and decorations inside and out. I love the huge stone fireplace in the main lodge, the great vibe of the Twisted River Tavern, and the piece de resistance is the excellent meal we enjoy at Carson’s American Kitchen. It was the perfect end to a perfect day skiing at Mt Bachelor with a hearty Willamette Valley flat-iron steak accompanied by a fine Oregon wine or three. Dessert was the marionberry crisp showcasing the State fruit of Oregon, topped with streusel and vanilla bean ice cream. Oh what sweet surrender. Sunriver Resort has a lot going for it – winter or summer – a wonderful introduction to this part of Oregon. destinationhotels.com