Martis After Dark

A ski lodge tucked deep in the Sierra Nevada pines, this Truckee house has the rare advantage of a chair lift just 200 yards from the front door – and a free resort shuttle right outside connecting you to Northstar in minutes. Inside, the vaulted living room frames sweeping Martis Valley views through soaring windows, with a wood-burning fireplace for when the mountain cold sets in. After the slopes, the private hot tub on the back patio is hard to leave, and the main suite adds a Jacuzzi bathtub for a proper wind-down. Historic Downtown Truckee is about a twenty-minute drive when you need a change of scene.

Home truths:
* This home is set over three floors, so you'll need to be able to climb stairs here. It might not be the best option for those with reduced mobility.
* There is no air conditioning here, so if you're visiting in the warmer months you'll be relying on the mountain elevation and ceiling fans to keep things cool.
* The outdoor kitchen and barbecue are only available during the summer months, so if you're visiting in winter you'll be cooking and dining indoors.
* Your host provides two guest passes for the shared pool and fitness centre at Northstar Resort.
* On-site parking fits four vehicles – two in the garage and two in the driveway. If you're arriving as a large group with multiple cars, it's worth planning ahead as additional parking is not available on site.