Hotel Marriott Grand Residence, Heavenly

Heavenly is found on the California/Nevada border, around the beautiful Lake Tahoe. Owned by Vail Resorts, Inc. the resort offers excellent skiing for all abilities, particularly for intermediates. There are great views, no queues and a superb snow record supported by good snowmaking facilities.

Experts will love the powder in the Mott and Killebrew Canyons, while boarders have loads of specialist parks and pipes. The off-piste is also good for those venturing off the runs, with very good glade (tree) skiing. Heavenly is also a good value package venue.

Most people stay in South Lake Tahoe, which sits astride the state border. This location provides the resort with its unique atmosphere, since Nevada is synonymous with gambling. There are big casino hotels, like in Las Vegas – this means little Alpine charm. There is, however, good accommodation, plenty of restaurants and a uniquely glitzy après-ski.

Heavenly's brand new (Dec 2000) high-speed 8-person gondola whisks skiers and riders from the heart of South Lake Tahoe to the upper slopes.

Non-skiers had better like gambling, but there is also Lake Tahoe to keep you amused.

Overall, Heavenly provides wonderful skiing for all, with a resort base that will attract and offend people in equal measure…