Where better to escape the stresses of modern life than in the northern reaches of New England? Especially in the middle of winter, when the snow is thick on the ski mountains and the hot cocoa is on hand, New England is the perfect destination for getting away from the hustle and bustle. With that in mind, here are our picks for the top five New England winter getaways that offer skiing, relaxation, and more.

Mark Fleming

Best New England Winter Getaways

1. Stowe, Vermont

Located mere miles from the towering Mount Mansfield, Stowe is the epitome of a “cozy Vermont ski town.” The downtown area mixes top-notch eateries (Plate) with charming shops (Stowe Mercantile and the Country Store on Main), and the town’s eponymous ski area, Stowe Mountain Resort, is one of the premier resorts not only in the state, but in the entire region. The resort offers a huge variety of easy, intermediate, and expert downhill trails, and for those who prefer gentler grades, there are a number of cross-country trails in the area too.

When it comes to lodging, it’s hard to beat the luxurious Spruce Peak (formerly Stowe Mountain Lodge) and the Austrian-inspired Trapp Family Lodge, which also boasts the Von Trapp Brewery. All things considered, Stowe makes for one of the best winter weekend getaways in New England.

SEE MORE: A Holiday Visit to Stowe, Vermont

Sara Gray

2. Bethel, Maine

Home to some of the best cross-country skiing trails in Maine, Bethel is a must-visit destination for those looking to get outside and active during the winter months. Two nearby ski areas, Sunday River and Mount Abram, offer downhill skiers and snowboarders a chance to let loose on their various slopes, and activities like snowmobiling, dogsledding, and ice-fishing are not far away.

The town isn’t exclusively for outdoorsy types; with the artistic and laid-back scene that permeates the area, Bethel beckons to all. Restaurants like Brian’s, 22 Broad Street, and ChoSun are part of Bethel’s diverse culinary scene and will satisfy any palate. For an overnight, the Bethel Inn Resort is the place to stay — and the perfect place to relax after a hard day’s skiing.

SEE MORE: 10 Prettiest Mountain Towns in New England

Sara Gray

3. Jackson, New Hampshire

The popular winter resort town of Jackson rests only miles from Mount Washington and offers unrivaled views of the Presidential Range’s snowy peaks. It’s easy to get lost in the natural beauty of Jackson while alpine skiing at Wildcat or Black Mountain, or cross-country skiing on the more than 150 kilometers of trails of the Jackson Ski Touring Foundation. These features combine to give Jackson some of New Hampshire’s most scenic skiing locations.

In town, you’ll find a great selection of places to eat and stay, like the Eagle Mountain House, the Christmas Farm Inn, and The Wentworth.

SEE MORE: Favorite Things to Do in Jackson, NH

Cathryn McCann

4. Woodstock, Vermont

Since one of the first tow ropes was installed on the slopes of the Suicide Six ski area in 1936, which was subsequently bought by Laurence Rockefeller in 1961, this small ski town has become one of the most charming places in New England. The town is home to the beloved 143-room Woodstock Inn, which is just steps to the beautiful and quaint downtown and town green. There you’ll find great places to eat, like The Prince & The Pauper, and F.H. Gillingham & Sons, one of the state’s oldest general stores.

Besides Suicide Six, there’s great cross-country skiing and snowshoeing trails at the Woodstock Inn or the Marsh–Billings–Rockefeller National Historical Park. Giant Killington Ski Resort is just a 30 minute drive away, or opt for a sleigh ride at Billings Farm & Museum.

SEE MORE: Things to do in Woodstock, VT | Woodstock Inn

Dick Pollock

5. North Conway, New Hampshire

Whether you like to shop or ski, or both, you’ll love North Conway in the wintertime. Year-round, shoppers flock to the Settlers’ Green outlets in search of bargains from beloved brands like L.L. Bean. Downtown, Zeb’s General Store is the place to check out for knick-knacks of every variety, or a bagful of penny candy. Skiers can enjoy a day on the slopes at the 57-trail Cranmore Mountain Resort, while non-skiers can try out the zipline course, Giant Swing, or 10 lanes of tubing.

Not interested in shopping or skiing? Hop aboard the Conway Scenic Railroad to take in some mountain views from the comfort of your train seat, or grab your skates and head to the outdoor rink at Schouler Park. Then top the day off with some tasty après-ski fare and microbrews from Moat Mountain Smokehouse.

SEE MORE: Zeb’s General Store in North Conway, NH | Photos

Want more? Check out the 10 Best Winter Towns in New England to see the rest of our favorite New England winter getaways.