Another recommended place is Mazama Country Inn (509/996-2681 or 800/843-7951, www.mazamacountryinn.com, $90–140 d in summer, $190–240 d in winter), with comfortable guest rooms in a delightful rural setting. Similar to other inns in the Methow Valley, this rustic mountain lodge offers full board in the winter months. Work up a sweat on the property’s squash court, tennis court, or in the exercise room and then relax those old bones in the sauna and hot tub. Kids are accepted in the summer, but when winter comes, this is an adults-only place.

Freestone Inn and Early Winters Cabins (17798 Hwy. 20 in Mazama, 509/996-3906 or 800/639-3809, www.freestoneinn.com, $185–235 inn, $235–335 cabins) is set right on the edge of Freestone Lake. Rooms in the modern, elaborate wooden lodge include a light meal served each morning. Or rent cabins with kitchens by the day or the week. The property organizes myriad outdoor activities for guests, such as horse riding, mountain biking, backcountry skiing, fly-fishing, and more. And if you just want to relax, enjoy the fantastic views out over the lake and surrounding mountains.