Hotels in Killington

Skiers headed to Killington for a week or so of skiing should consider the condo option. (I know, but really.) A number of condo developments spill down the hillside and along the low ridges flanking the access road, varying in elegance, convenience, and size. Highridge features units with saunas and two-person Jacuzzis, along with access to a compact health club; Sunrise Village is more remote, with a health club and easy access to the Bear Mountain lifts; The Woods at Killington are farthest from the slopes (there's a free shuttle), but offer the easiest access to the best health club and dining. Rates in these condos fluctuate widely, depending on time of year, number of bedrooms, and number of days you plan to stay; obviously winter is the most expensive time, with foliage season right there with it, so you can score good deals in summer. Figure on prices ranging from around $100 to $130 and up per person per day in the highest seasons; expensive, but remember -- in winter, these condo rates include lift tickets.

There are also a few moderate- and budget-priced motels as you ascend the mountain from Rutland to Killington, some chain properties and some privately owned, including (but certainly not limited to) a simple but serviceable Econo Lodge (tel. 802/773-6644 or 800/992-9067) in Mendon, about halfway up. It's got a library, a small outdoor pool, and a play area for kids.

You can line up a vacation -- or request more information -- by contacting the Killington Lodging and Travel Bureau (tel. 888/4KTIMES; www.killington.com), which also happily arranges stays at area inns and motels.

Skiing on a Budget? Think Rutland! -- Skiers on a budget should consider home-basing it in Rutland at one of the city's many chain hotels and motels, then commuting to the mountain via car or the $2 shuttle bus. See the "Rutland" section below for a few suggestions.