There are countless ways to celebrate the holidays in the mountains. But throw away the list — The Homestead in Hot Springs, Virginia, is No. 1 in gracious hospitality. Since 1766, the resort has offered a grand escape within the beauty of the Allegheny Mountains. Go on your own, with your family, or for one of the series of special-interest events. And with 72,000 square feet of meeting space, conferences always are in season.

THE GREAT OUTDOORS
Dressed in its crisp winter whites, The Homestead adds downhill and cross-country skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, snowshoeing, and ice skating to its year-round outdoors slate of fun. The resort’s WinterFest (Jan. 28-30, 2005) has become a tradition for many families — they wouldn’t miss the Torchlight Parade and fireworks. And younger visitors love the award-winning KidsClub and the Bunny School, both filled with great outdoors activities and learning experiences.

DELIGHT THE SENSES
For generations and for every generation, The Homestead has defined "getaway" in very personal ways. For some, that means golf, tennis, horseback riding, shooting sports, hiking, mountain biking, falconry, fly-fishing, canoeing, and other seasonal pursuits. Yet shopping and fine dining are the stuff of every season at the resort. Along the Tower Corridor, you’ll find elegant, but cozy, boutiques filled with apparel, home decor, jewelry, sporting goods, and more. Other shopping options are found in the Village, Cottage Row, the golf shops, and the Spa shops. The Mountain Lodge Ski Shop is a favorite with winter visitors looking for the latest in turtlenecks, ski pants and jackets, gloves, and other accessories. (Or just warm up in the Mountain Lodge Restaurant — it’s not for skiers only.) And nothing says "yum" like the variety of dining venues at The Homestead. There’s something exceptional for every appetite, including fine dining, casual fare, and true tastes of local color. Pull up a chair.

COZY AND WARM
Whatever the weather, you’ll find a gracious warmth inside The Homestead, where holiday festivities begin with an abundant Thanksgiving Day feast. This first weekend of the season features family concerts and, of course, is highlighted by the lighting of the Great Hall Christmas Tree. And if you are looking for a special gift for that special person — you — indulge in a restorative treatment for your mind and body at The Homestead Spa. (For more information, visit www.thehomestead.com)