D Editorial Review

After a day of adventure outdoors, guests at an upscale lodge enjoy the comforts of a five-star hotel.

Imagine my delight while temporarily living and working in Hollywood one summer, I discovered the serenity and charm of Santa Monica in western Los Angeles County. A shimmering diamond in the rough landscape of La-La-Land, this beachfront locale has several merits: It’s relatively removed from the materialistic “industry” bourgeoisie, it delivers a balanced mix of upscale and laid-back, and it’s an environmental embodiment of California cool.

The dogsledding, skeleton runs, and a 5G-force bobsled ride—just like the one Bill Gates endured on the same course—were among the highlights of my eight days in Lillehammer. Actually, though, I had come to the town that hosted the 1994 Winter Olympics for its renowned cross-country skiing. And, I wasn’t disappointed with the more than 2,000 kilometers (1,240 miles) of groomed trails amid magnificent winterscapes. And while a six-pack of beer costs the equivalent of $75—that’s not a misprint—the endless Nordic skiing is free.

Music and white sands in the desert town.