7 Luxurious Nearcations for When You Score a Surprise Tax Refund

Indulge at these seven spots to celebrate the end of tax season.

ByABC News
April 23, 2016, 12:24 AM
The Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is the perfect place to disconnect, as technology is discouraged.
The Little Palm Island Resort & Spa is the perfect place to disconnect, as technology is discouraged.
Oyster.com

— -- intro: After the stress of tax season, there's nothing more satisfying than unwinding with a fat refund. And what better way to celebrate than to book a weekend of luxe travel? Now you shouldn't go too overboard -- so that's why we picked getaways that are each considered "nearcations" for a range of U.S. cities, West Coast to East Coast -- and in between. Indulge at these seven spots -- a car trip, easy train ride, or puddle-jumper flight away from many a hometown -- with fine dining, spa treatments and leisurely afternoons.

quicklist: 1title: 1. Four Seasons Resort Rancho Encantado, Santa Fe text: Just a few miles north of Santa Fe, Rancho Encantado offers Four Seasons luxury with a southwestern touch. Native American-style rugs, warm ochre tones, and comfortable wood and concrete flooring make up the resort's rustic-modern décor, which goes upscale with radiant floor heating, private patios (with a view) and cozy wood-burning fireplaces. We deeply appreciate the extras at Rancho Encantado, like the luxury spa, fine dining Terra Restaurant, whirlpool and outdoor (seasonal) pool, and free Mercedes Benz rentals.media: 38520081

quicklist: 2title: 2. The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs text: The iconic Broadmoor unfolds over 3,000 acres of the Colorado Rockies. Sitting pretty on Cheyenne Lake, the luxurious estate is massive: eight on-site restaurants, a full-service spa, three swimming pools and hot tubs, several tennis courts, three golf courses, and a bevy of shops that accommodate nearly 900 rooms, suites, villas and cabins. What's more, if you wait a few weeks to get away, it'll be warm enough to enjoy the Broadmoor's vast outdoor offerings, including rock-climbing, fly-fishing, bicycling and, of course, tennis and golf.media: 38520164

quicklist: 3title: 3. Little Palm Island Resort & Spa, Florida Keys text: If you're looking for a truly lavish getaway, there are much (much) worse choices than the private island that hosts Little Palm Island Resort & Spa. Accessible only by seaplane or boat (the latter of which is particularly easy to arrange), this secluded spot is the perfect place to disconnect; in fact, technology is discouraged, so leave the laptop at home and fill your days with sandy strolls, tropical gardens, and luxe pampering.media: 38520246

quicklist: 4title: 4. The Plaza, New York City text: No list of domestic indulgence would be complete without the addition of The Plaza, New York's iconic hotel. Be aware that a $400 million renovation in 2008 updated the hotel but also turned many of the most coveted views into private residences; even so, The Plaza is total over-the-top Manhattan luxury. You'll have plenty to do during a New York staycation, but do take time to enjoy The Plaza's wine-inspired spa and 24-hour butler service.media: 38520295

quicklist: 5title: 5. Calistoga Ranch, An Auberge Resort, Napa County text: One of the most remarkable hotels in not just Napa or California, but in the entire United States, the Calistoga Ranch is a favorite among royalty, celebrities, and other A-listers. Cradled within a 157-acre private park, the hotel offers an excellent restaurant, exceptional spa and spectacular grounds -- secluded hiking trails, outdoor yoga, a bocce court, and a heated outdoor pool, among other offerings. What we love most of all are the wine tasting seminars and, of course, the wine you'll undoubtedly discover throughout the Napa Valley.media: 38520345