When staying at least three days, ask about the Stowe Vacation Program. Extras include night skiing, extra half days, lessons, and more. Your lift tickets will be waiting for you with your room key, so there’s no need to stop at the ticket window on your way to the trails the next morning. Call (800) 247-8693.

When the Trapp Family's life was dramatized in "The Sound of Music," their everlasting fame was guaranteed. The Trapp Family Lodge (800-826-7000; 253-8511; $$$$; left), which they established near Stowe upon arriving in the United States, is a legend in its own right. Although the original building burned down in the late 1970s, it was rebuilt. It is still in the family and is one of the most popular places to stay in the area. This is a self-contained resort with an excellent cross-country center. The collection of restaurants is among the best in the area, and a modern pool and fitness center provide excellent amenities. Make reservations early because this lodge is normally full throughout the season (Christmas reservations should be made about a year in advance). Rates include breakfast and dinner.

Topnotch at Stowe Resort & Spa (800-451-8686; 253-8585; in Canada 800-228-8686; $$$$) is the top spa and fitness center destination in the area. Rooms range from doubles in the main hotel to surrounding condominiums. The experience is all about comfort and luxury, from the overstuffed chairs in the lobby to the amazingly comfortable bed pillows in the rooms. The spa is world-class, and the resort has the only indoor tennis courts in Stowe.

The Inn at the Mountain (800-253-4754; 253-3656; $$–$$$$; right), is part of Stowe Mountain Resort. The flavor is country New England. The Fireside Tavern is the perfect place to unwind after a day on the slopes.

The best family accommodations in Stowe are at the Golden Eagle Resort (800-626-1010; 253-4811; $$–$$$; below). This sprawling complex has more than a dozen buildings and facilities, from motel rooms with kitchenettes to apartments. The complex has one of the best fitness centers in town, which includes an indoor pool. It is all unpretentious and affordable. Because there are dozens of pricing options, the best bet is to contact the property and explain your needs.

The Stoweflake Mountain Resort and Spa (800-253-2232; 253-7355; $$$–$$$$), on the Mountain Road, has a trendy spa and sports club. This property has had continual upgrades over past years in its quest to match Topnotch. Rates include breakfast and dinner. The Stoweflake also manages a nice group of townhouse condos with studio to three-bedroom units.

Ye Olde England Inne (800-477-3771; 0800-962-684 toll-free from the U.K.; 253-7558; $$–$$$$) is also on the Mountain Road. Bigger than a country inn and smaller than a full-fledged hotel, it has an English country motif and lavish Laura Ashley touches. Every room is decorated differently. The Bluff House, perched on the hill behind the inn, has luxury suites with unobstructed views over the valley. Room rates include breakfast.

Stowe Inn (800-546-4030; 253-4030; $$–$$$) is a renovated 17th-century landmark on the Mountain Road. Some of the deluxe inn rooms in the main lodge feature four-poster sleigh or panel beds. Standard doubles in the carriage house are a good value yet well-adorned. There is plenty of common space to unwind next to an open fire after skiing. Breakfast and afternoon snacks are included, and dinner is available downstairs in Harrison’s Tavern.

Green Mountain Inn 800-253-7302; 253-7301; $$–$$$$; right) on Main Street is a charming old inn with a super location in the middle of town. The wide-planked floors are pine, and the furniture is comfortable antiques. Lowell Thomas used to broadcast his radio ski reports from the inn; ask to stay in his room. The hotel has an annex that is not quite so quaint but is off the main road. Rates include a huge breakfast buffet.

Ten Acres Lodge (800-327-7357; 253-7638; $$–$$$$) is on Luce Hill Road. This country inn was converted from an 1840s farm house. Rooms vary in size; those in the main lodge are relatively simple, but the common areas are beautiful. Eight modern units, called the Hill House, are tucked into the woods behind the old farmhouse. These all have fireplaces in the rooms and share an outdoor hot tub. Rates include breakfast.

The Gables Inn (800-422-5371; 253-7730; $$–$$$$), on Mountain Road, is a real lived-in house, which helps everyone have a good time. The breakfasts are among the best in Stowe, and guests wouldn’t think of eating anywhere else for dinner either. Rates include two meals.

Stone Hill Inn (253-6282; $$$$) is an exquisitely luxurious getaway designed for romance and comfort; no kids allowed. The nine rooms, each decorated differently, include a king-size bed, a cozy sitting area, a fireplace in the bedroom and in the bathroom, and a jetted tub for two. Prices include breakfast, evening hors d’oeuvres and unlimited soft drinks.

On the budget side, The Stowe Motel & Snowdrift (800-829-7629; 253-7629; $-$$) has clean, nicely-appointed motel rooms, some with fireplaces and kitchenettes.

Accommodations Legend: (double room) $$$$–$200+; $$$–$141–$200; $$–$81–$140; $–$80 and less.