The USA’s very first destination resort, Idaho's Sun Valley has been popular since the 1930s, when it was built by the Union Pacific Railroad. Now an adventure sports hub in both the summer and winter months, this is a superb spot for a holiday as a couple, or with family and friends. Accommodation options range from simple modern hotels to expansive lodges with heaps of facilities, fit for a whole host of tastes and budgets. Many of the best places to stay in Sun Valley are clustered in the friendly town of Ketchum, but one of our favourite is hidden higher on the slopes, perfect for keen explorers.

Offering two Northern Rockies mountains criss-crossed with 2,000 acres of slopes suited to everyone from eager beginners to experienced thrill-seekers, Sun Valley is a fabulous place to ski and snowboard. Winter visitors can also try snowmobiling, heli-skiing, Nordic skiing, ice-skating and snowshoeing. Families will find reputable ski schools for little ones, beautiful sleigh rides and a friendly après-ski vibe.

Come in the summer months for excellent hiking, mountain biking and horse riding along hundreds of miles of trails. Play a round of golf at Trail Creek, White Clouds or the Sawtooth Putting Course, go wildlife-spotting in the forests, or fish for rainbows, browns, brooks, cutthroats and steelheads. Water sports enthusiasts can also enjoy rafting, kayaking, stand-up paddle boarding and waterskiing on the Sun Valley Lake and nearby.

Join fellow adventurers at the bars and eateries of Ketchum for sociable evenings out, or catch a show at the charming, 1937-built Opera House, before retreating to one of the best places to stay in Sun Valley. Tomorrow’s excitement awaits!

The Best Places to Stay in Sun Valley

For Great Value

• Tamarack Lodge is a simple, stylish choice in downtown Ketchum. The huge indoor pool and outdoor hot tub are wonderfully refreshing after big days out. Guests can make the most of a discount at the hotel's sister property for breakfast and coffee, or sample the area's many eateries. Families are welcome! Friendly and affordable.

For Contemporary Cool

• Hotel Ketchum is a chic, contemporary spot with airy rooms featuring crsip white linens and mountain views. The lively Barrio 75 resto-bar serves tacos and tequila, and the vibe is relaxed and sociable. Ideal for couples, families or groups of friends. Very central.
• Limelight Ketchum has minimalist rooms, suites and multi-room residences with pale wooden furnishings and appealing mountain panoramas. Expect casual dining, live music, a swimming pool and a playroom for little ones. Great for families or couples looking to stay in Ketchum itself.

For Romance

• Knob Hill Inn offers elegant, traditional interiors in rooms with oversized soaking tubs and private terraces. With a restaurant focused on locally sourced fare, a heated swimming pool and a hot tub, this is a gorgeous choice for an indulgent couples' escape. For a chalet-style vibe.

For the Ultimate Active Holiday

• Sun Valley Lodge is a sprawling mountain retreat, with a collection of 108 comfortable rooms and multi-room suites. Highlights include the 20,000 square foot spa, world-class fitness centre, multiple restaurants, tennis courts and refreshing swimming pool. An idyllic resort for active travellers of all ages, with skiing, hiking, cycling, horse riding and ice-skating galore in beautiful surroundings.

FOR AN APARTMENT OR HOLIDAY COTTAGE

• If you'd prefer a self-catering option, we suggest that you visit our online partner Booking.com.

TRAVEL INFORMATION

• Fly to Friedman Memorial Airport, just 13 miles from Sun Valley. Travel to your hotel by shuttle bus or taxi.
• Idaho is ideal for a road trip! Contact our online partner Rentalcars if you would like to hire a car.
• Travel between December and March for the best skiing, or come in the summer months for hiking, horse riding and mountain biking.

STILL NOT SURE?

• Browse our list of the best places to stay in Boise.
• Expand your search to include all the best places to stay in Idaho.
• Or contact one of our friendly Gurus for advice.