The Best Hotel in Montana is One You Probably Can’t Afford

One Montana hotel is now listed among the best in the world, winning one of the most prestigious awards in the hospitality industry.

Unfortunately, you'll likely never be able to experience it yourself since room prices can cost you more for one night than you'd pay for 10 nights at other upscale Montana hotels.

However, the award does show the remarkable transformation of what started out as a rugged, out-of-the-way resort location more than 50 years ago.

The best of the best

Every year, Forbes Travel Guide editors scour the globe for the best hotels, resort properties, and experiences for their Star Awards. For more than 60 years, receiving a 5-star Forbes rating has been considered a pinnacle in the travel business.

Forbes says while people flocked to places like Rome and Paris once pandemic travel eased, now travelers are seeking more "meaningful trips" and experiences. And that's where smaller areas, with fewer crowds, are shining.

Montana's turn

Making the Star Awards list for 2024 is Montage Big Sky, the iconic hotel and resort that opened in 2021 and is now one of the anchor properties at Big Sky Resort. The selection also gave Montage Hotels & Resorts a five-star sweep for all seven of its locations.

Forbes singled out Montage Big Sky as a "luxurious escape for those with a sense of adventure", praising its proximity to skiing, fly fishing, and Yellowstone. It noted its 11,000 square-foot spa and "spacious suites".

"Walls of windows invite the Montana wilderness indoors, where thoughtful design elements and a carefully curated art collection inspire memories of the American West." -Forbes Travel Guide.

Better save up

If you have to ask how much it costs to stay at Montage Big Sky, you can't afford it. But if you had wanted a Valentine's getaway this week, a one-night stay in the hotel was $2,285 for a King Room. Queen Rooms topped $2400. The "Spanish Peak View" specialty suite is priced "from $5335 a night."

Not enough room? Dig deep and opt for a "Four Bedroom Residence" at more than $10,000 a night. Or stretch out in the 6-bedroom Vista View Grand and enjoy the mountains to forget about spending $19,875 for ONE brush with billionaires.

I'm sure if you ask in your best Tom Bodett voice they'll "leave the light on for you" at that price.