5 gold-medal towns

Want to work out–or just hang out–like an Olympian? 5 contenders share their favorite spots for both|Jennie Nunn

1. Los Angeles

Evan Lysacek, figure skater

Where he works out: The oceanfront path between Manhattan Beach and Hermosa Beach for morning runs; Runyon Canyon Park, near the Hollywood Hills, for weekend hikes.

Where he hangs out: Hollywood’s Chateau Marmont (from $395) to lounge at the pool by day and drink cocktails on the heated patio at night. “I feel like I’m in Paris,” Evan says. For breakfast, he eats healthy with a yogurt-granola parfait from Joan’s on Third ($; 323/ 655-2285).

For a post-training treat, he pops lavender-infused macaroons from Little Next Door ($1.75; 323/951-1210). Evan’s hobby? “Treasure hunting” at the Melrose Trading Post (closed Sun; $2 admission).

2. Vail, CO

Lindsey Vonn, alpine skier

Where she works out: The gym at the Arrabelle at Vail Square (day pass $35) has a “topnotch” spa. Outdoors, Lindsey trains on Golden Peak at Vail Mountain (vail.com for prices).

Where she hangs out: The cozy-casual Red Lion ($$) for live music après-ski. Axel’s (970/476-7625) is a favorite boutique, and Sweet Basil ($$$; 970/476-0125) sometimes has a killer seared tuna dish on its menu.

3. Corona del Mar, CA

Sasha Cohen, figure skater

Where she works out: In Crystal Cove State Park ($15 per vehicle) in Laguna Beach. She also likes to run along Ocean Avenue and on Balboa Island.

Where she hangs out:  The Crow Bar and Kitchen ($$; 949/675-0070) for Crowjito cocktails, made with rum and sparkling wine. And, for sushi, Bluefin Fine Japanese Cuisine ($$$; 949/715-7373) in Newport Beach.

4. Boise

Hailey Duke, alpine slalom skier

Where she works out: The Idaho Taekwondo Training Center (closed Sat–Sun; $100 per month; 208/386-9408). “I grew up doing tae kwon do and skiing,” says Hailey, whose dad owns the center. “It’s great cross-training.”

Where she hangs out: La Vie En Rose European Bakery and Bistro ($; 208/331-4045) for sticky buns and TableRock Brewpub & Grill ($; 208/342- 0944) for the roasted red pepper turkey burger. And, for facials, Graeber & Company (closed Sun; $65).

5. Salt Lake City

Apolo Anton Ohno, speed skater

Where he works out: The Cottonwood Canyons for bike rides with amazing views.

Where he hangs out: For nature, nearby Jordanelle State Park (from $7 per vehicle). For catching up with friends, the Paris Bistro ($$$; 801/486-5585). La Caille ($$$; 801/942-1751), in Sandy, Utah, has a fabulous brunch.

For R&R, Stein Eriksen Lodge (from $750, including breakfast; four night minimum) in Park City, Utah. “I feel like I’m on a mini vacation, but it’s only a half-hour from home.”

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http://www.sunset.com/travel/olympian-training-towns-00400000062682/