The Amangani in Jackson Hole, Wyoming Pairs Adventure with Luxury in a Stunning Setting

When it comes to luxury resorts, location is everything. And nestled in the foothills of the Tetons near Grand Teton and Yellowstone National Parks, Amangani couldn’t have a better spot.

 The resort, part of the global Aman brand of upscale hotels, embraces the spirit of the Old West while also deftly pulling off five-star luxury in every way. Amangani translates to “peaceful home” in the Shoshone Native American language. And although the three-story stone, redwood and glass structure does have a calming vibe, it offers a robust menu of activities that will tempt some to push their limits. As the old cowboy saying goes, “If you climb in the saddle, be ready for the ride.”

The smell of redwood and the sound of a crackling fireplace welcome guests as they enter a chic, rustic lounge that serves as the resort’s lobby. Native American artwork adorns the walls, and soft faux fur blankets drape the comfortable chairs. Then it hits you: the floor-to-ceiling windows that serve up a panoramic view of the majestic Grand Tetons. The jaw-dropping vista alone is worth the visit.

Amangani’s 40 suites also take advantage of those expansive views (quick tip: corner suites have wraparound views) with private patios and balconies. The soothing rooms, decorated in natural materials in shades of gray, feature low-profile beds and fireplaces. 

Think of this mountain hideaway as a luxury base camp, your jumping-off point for a plethora of activities. In summer, take your pick of horseback riding, mountain biking or hiking in Grand Teton National Park (a few miles north) or Yellowstone National Park (about 60 miles north). Feeling extra bold? Try hot-air ballooning. Or a wildlife safari, where you can spot bison, elk and red-tailed hawks. If you’re lucky, maybe even a grizzly bear. Fishing in the pristine Snake River (aka trout heaven), canoeing and rafting are also available, and the hotel can arrange nearby golf and guided tours to both national parks.

If you prefer a winter stay, skiing and snowboarding at Jackson Hole Mountain Resort are an easy 20-minute drive, courtesy of the hotel’s free shuttle. Amangani has a private ski lounge and a concierge who will manage everything from equipment rentals and storage to lunch reservations. The concierge can also book other activities such as snowmobiling, snowshoeing and horse-drawn sleigh rides.

I visited Amangani during ski season, and after a day of racing down some of Jackson Hole’s most challenging black diamond runs, the heated infinity pool and hot tub were the perfect reward. Tiptoeing along a heated stone pathway, I slipped into the pool with my hot toddy in hand and marveled at the snow-covered Tetons. It remains a vivid memory of pure bliss. 

During summer, Amangani offers lunch on the terrace, a feast for your stomach and eyes. You can enjoy a meal while gazing out on green pastures dotted by moose. Dinner at The Grill offers an American menu that includes Kobe beef and local bison as well as fresh fish and various pastas. Jack Daniels ice cream is a deliciously indulgent way to top off your meal.

Zinc Bar is an intimate option for grabbing a drink après ski or before dinner, and it serves the  yummiest spiced nuts I’ve ever tasted. If, after a full day, you feel the need to stay wrapped in a plush robe in the privacy of your room, the resort offers 24-hour room service.

For more, go to aman.com.