Ever come across an incredible hotel that stops you mid-scroll and makes you think: Wow, wouldn’t it be something to stay there? We do, too—all the time. Welcome to Friday Fantasy, where we highlight amazing hotels, lodges, cabins, tents, campsites, and other places perched in perfect outdoor settings. Read on for the intel you need to book an upcoming adventure here. Or at least dream about it.
I’m sitting in the hot tub on the deck outside of my cabin at One&Only Moonlight Basin, breathing in the cold Montana night air while the snow falls around me in fast, fat flakes. My quads are a little sore from a morning of fat biking, but my body is relaxed after a truly excellent massage at the on-site spa. I’m in total recovery mode when I catch movement out of the corner of my eye.
A fluffy, curious fox has emerged three cabins down. He weaves under and around the decks, edging closer as I hold my breath. I’m amazed to finally see a fox close enough to catch the white of his whiskers, his red fur and the cabin’s Christmas lights glowing against the snow. Just as I’m thrilled by the encounter, he vanishes into the dark forest.
During my three-night stay at the newest One&Only (the first U.S. location of the swanky brand), this wasn’t the only time I’d feel a sense of surprise and delight. I felt it during my very first meal there, at Akira Back, the modern Japanese celebrity chef restaurant that might just be the best meal in the mountain west. (Seriously, I ate there twice, it was that good.)
I felt it during my first-ever ski lesson at Big Sky Resort, a quick 15-minute drive away—or a 10-minute ride in the resort’s private heated gondola—that left me feeling more excited for winter than I have in years. And I also felt it during an evening visit to Moonshack, a cozy cabin on the property that’s been converted into a rustic luxe whiskey bar, complete with a wood-burning stove and lively conversation with other guests.
One&Only has a well-earned reputation for being among the best hotel brands for service, amenities, and finishes, and their Moonlight Basin location is no exception. The 240-acre property is nestled in a quiet corner of Big Sky with 360-degree views of the Spanish Peaks, Lone Mountain, and Fan Mountain (pretty much anywhere on the property, you can enjoy some legit alpine landscape). The 73 rooms and 19 cabins all have giant windows to take in the views. And best of all, you can adventure as much—or as little—as you’d like.
To read the full article on Outside, click here.