A recent study indicated that those who plan their vacations in advance tend to enjoy their trip more, due to the fact that they've anticipated it for months. While it may still be summer, now is the optimal time to begin planning your winter vacation to the mountains - for many reasons. Unlike summer, winter bookings fill up at a much faster rate, not only for lodging but also for dining and activities. Planning your trip in advance ensures that you can secure all desired experiences.

Early planning provides access to a broader selection of accommodations. Whether you prefer a cozy cabin or a luxury ski-in/ski-out condo, booking early ensures availability and choice. High-demand properties are quickly reserved, so early booking is critical.

Many resorts and vacation rental companies offer early bird discounts and special offers for advance bookings. Taking advantage of these deals helps manage your expenses while still enjoying premium accommodations and services.

Coordinating travel schedules with family and friends can be challenging. Planning early facilitates synchronization of schedules and activities, ensuring a cohesive and enjoyable group experience. The anticipation of a well-organized trip also enhances the overall enjoyment.

Booking your vacation home early prevents the stress and higher costs associated with last-minute reservations. Early booking secures your preferred accommodation, whether it's a slopeside chalet, a mountain cabin, or a spacious condo. This is particularly important when it comes to Ski/In-Ski/Out properties. Spacious homes with prime ski access tend to get booked quickly. If Ski-In/Ski-Out access in a property is a dealbreaker for you, we sugest you book your desired home no later than three months in advance.

Securing your accommodation in advance provides peace of mind, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your trip, such as arranging activities and excursions. This ensures a stress-free and enjoyable planning process.

Advance planning reduces the stress of last-minute arrangements. From booking accommodations to securing ski lessons and activities, early organization allows you to enjoy the anticipation of your trip without the pressure of rushed decisions.

Early planning offers greater flexibility in choosing activities and excursions. With ample time to explore options, you can create a detailed itinerary that enhances your vacation experience. For itinerary suggestions, consider reaching out to a skilled concierge team, or booking with a vacationr rental company where these services are complimentary.

A well-structured itinerary helps alleviate uncertainties about logistics during your trip. Knowing your accommodation, planned activities, and schedule brings clarity and reduces anxiety.

Here is a sample itinerary for a week-long trip to Telluride, CO:

Day 1: Arrive and check into your accommodations. Pick up passes/lift tickets and gear, some groceries, and perhaps some oxygen - or plan ahead and have all of this delivered to your home upon arrival. Head in to the Town of Telluride to explore and grab a casual dinner at Rustico Ristorante (reservations recommended for all dinner locations).

Day 2: First day of skiing - cook a quick breakfast in the gourmet kitchen at your luxury vacation home, then gear up. Ski out of your backdoor, and meet your instructors at the base of the chairlift. A half day in the morning with an instructor will get you warmed up and introduced (or re-intrudoced) to the mountain. Grab lunch mid-day at Bon Vivant and go out for a little while longer, then ski directly to your back door and get ready for dinner at 221 South Oak.

Day 3: Start the morning with a half-day of skiing upper-mountain terrain, then recover with lunch at home. Head to your afternoon massage to help with your muscle recovery, then do some shopping in town. Finish the day with dinner at Allred's restaurant, located at the peak of the gondola.

Day 4: The dedicated skiers go heli-skiing for the day, while those committed to leisure do a family-friendly snowshoeing tour. Both groups meet up in the evening for a well-earned dinner and desert at La Marmotte.

Day 5: Spend the morning skiing as a group, then do some shopping at Heritage and Luchesse in the Mountain Village Core. End the day with dinner at home, courtesy of a private chef booked by your personal concierge team, then watch a movie or soak in the hot tub under the stars.

Day 6: Wrap up your trip with a snowmobile tour to the dutton hot springs, where you can let your body relax a bit. Return home in the afternoon, and prepare for a snowcat dinner at Alpino Vino - a coveted four-course wine pairing experience that requires bookings months in advance. End your trip in awe of the mountains as you dine in Colorado's highest fine dining restaurant.

Day 7: Enjoy a quick brunch at the Black Iron Grille in Mountain Village, then head to the airport for your flight back home.

Booking private ski lessons in advance ensures a personalized experience tailored to your skill level and goals. Early reservations secure dedicated instructor attention, enhancing your technique and confidence. Private lessons book out as soon as a couple months in advance, so if you prefer to be in a lesson with just your party, we advise you schedule these as soon as you know your travel dates, ideally for the first day or two that you plan to ski.

Securing ski lessons early allows for optimal scheduling, fitting seamlessly into your vacation itinerary. While we recommend booking a lesson the morning of the first day or two you plan to ski, this is only possible if the time slots are available. Booking more than three months in advance ensures availability and avoids scheduling conflicts.

Organizing private ski lessons for family and friends can enhance the overall experience, creating shared memories and a cohesive group dynamic. Group lessons may be available at the last minute, but they might not have room for everyone in your party. The farther you plan in advance, the more likely you can keep the members of your group together.

Telluride, situated in the San Juan Mountains, is renowned for its world-class skiing and charming mountain town atmosphere. With luxury vacation rentals and exclusive amenities, Telluride promises an exceptional winter vacation.

Explore options here.

Consider other popular winter destinations like Breckenridge, Vail, and Park City, which offer pristine slopes, upscale accommodations, and vibrant après-ski scenes. These locations cater to diverse preferences, from outdoor adventures to relaxing spa retreats.

• Breckenridge Vacation Rentals

• Vail Vacation Rentals

• Park City Vacation Rentals

In summary, planning your winter vacation in advance is essential for securing accommodations, reducing stress, and ensuring a well-organized trip. With premier destinations like Telluride, Breckenridge, Vail, and Park City awaiting, now is the time to start planning.