Three of the Best Hot Springs Destination Vacations

If you love the snow but don't like to ski or snowboard, consider a winter vacation to a hot springs resort. There is nothing like soaking in a soothing hot spring surrounded by snow covered mountains, and it's even better when snow flakes start to fall. If you're looking for a romantic getaway, all three destinations would be ideal.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs in Steamboat Springs, Colorado

Steamboat Springs is one of the most spectacular towns in the United States. It's nestled in the Rocky Mountains in northwest Colorado, surrounded by pristine wilderness and jagged mountain peaks. Strawberry Park Hot Springs is a resort that sits just outside the town on the edge of Hot Springs Creek.

Here you can relax in 104 degree mineral water while experiencing some of the most picturesque scenery in the world, in the ultimate winter wonderland. World class skiing and snowboarding is nearby for those who enjoy the activity, and there is nothing better than soothing sore muscles in the hot springs after a day of playing in the snow.

Strawberry Park Hot Springs is one of my favorite places to visit, and here you can even indulge yourself with a massage or watsu therapy in a private pool. Unique cabin accommodations are available, offering a gas fireplace and a cozy romantic stay, or you can even choose the park's train caboose. The caboose is the most comfortable of all their lodging options, and it includes a fully stocked kitchenette in addition to a gas fireplace.

Steamboat is easy to get to, with seven major airports offering nonstop flights to Steamboat/Hayden airport. Strawberry Park offers shuttle service to and from town, and free or cheap transportation in Steamboat Springs is readily available.

Bonneville Hot Springs Resort in North Bonneville, Washington

If you're looking for something a little more luxurious, perhaps for a honeymoon or special anniversary, Bonneville Hot Springs Resort in southern Washington state and the famed Columbia River Gorge area, will fit the bill and then some.

Located just 35 miles from either Portland, Oregon or Vancouver, Washington, Bonneville Hot Springs Resort is easily accessible. While snow may not be as likely to fall here as in the Rocky Mountain states, you could get lucky. If it doesn't, you can take the time to explore the many towering waterfalls that the region is famous for.

The resort offers heated mineral pools with cascading waters that are said to soothe both the "heart and soul." Here you can enjoy a relaxing massage or one of many special skin treatments from facials to wraps.

Lodging includes all of the amenities you expect from a high end luxury hotel, in addition to a fine-dining restaurant, and even miniature golf.

Ouray, Colorado

Back in the Rocky Mountain state, Ouray is known as the Switzerland of America. It sits at a narrow head of the valley, with an elevation of nearly 8,000 feet and is surrounded on three sides by 13,000 foot snowcapped peaks.

The town is famous for its natural mineral hot springs and for being the start of one of the most beautiful scenic drives worldwide, The Million Dollar Highway. Most of the town is filled with lovingly restored Victorian period homes, giving it a special turn-of-the-century charm.

Ouray is located directly over the mountain northeast of Telluride, though it's an hour drive from its well known neighbor. The closest airport is at Montrose, about 36 miles north, but it is well worth the trip and remote location.

At Box Canyon Lodge & Hot Springs, you can soak in your own redwood tub, with each offering 360 degree mountain views. There is nothing like the view here at night, with millions of stars lighting the sky while you soothe your cares away. At Christmas time, Ouray looks picture postcard perfect, with the town lit up for the holiday, snow flakes falling, and typically at least a foot or two of the white stuff on the ground.

K.C. Dermody is a freelance writer and a Featured Contributor for Yahoo!Travel. She has traveled to nearly all 50 states, and many countries worldwide, and has a passion for imparting what she has learned from her experiences to others.

More from this contributor:

The Best Affordable Ski Resorts in Colorado

Three of the Best International Destinations for Winter Sun

The Best Places to Spend a Romantic Vacation in the Snow