Originally meant to host the 1976 Winter Olympics, the quaint, upscale town of Beaver Creek now sits as its own gated town just south of Avon. So, with my mountain-loving sister by my side, we decided to spend some time relaxing and soaking in the town’s beauty. Since Beaver Creek is a mixture of residences and hotels, the town’s front gate checks every guest in as to both maintain security and keep visitors from getting lost.
Beaver Creek Lodge was infamously built in 1980 as an embassy suite, and is now a part of The Kessler Collection, created by Richard Kessler. Only a short drive into town, Beaver Creek Lodge boasts an elegant exterior design that sits next to a small river and into the center of this mountain town.
Touring the Property
After checking in, we were greeted with a complimentary flute of champagne, plus tastings of Richard Kessler’s own brand of wine. With wine in hand, we took a tour of the property with Housekeeping Manager Diana Herr. Our first stop was the Artful Wellness Center, which includes the lodge’s gym, sauna, steam room, indoor and outdoor pool, and outdoor hot tub. Next was the art gallery on the second floor, for which Kessler properties are known.
Herr shared, “Richard Kessler loves to collect art and send them to the hotels, so the collection always changes and grows. Here we have pieces from all over the States and even one from France.” The paintings, sculptures, and driftwood installments continue throughout the hotel. Finally, we stopped by Alpine + Antlers for a dinner sneak-peek and to scope the boutiques by the ski-in entrance, which is a great place to start a day on the town.
Where To Eat
On the third floor of the lodge sits Alpine + Antlers, a warm and inviting dining experience with decadent menus for a date night or family feast. Alpine + Antlers prides itself on American classics with a twist that are fitting to start a day on the slopes with protein packed entrées or finish out a busy adventure with relaxing comfort foods. Also find an array of unique cocktails and CBD-infused seltzers to round off the palate.
Rimini Gelato
Only a minute away from the lodge is also the fan favorite Rimini Gelato. This is a lovely, quick stop for a crepe breakfast or a small treat, and it’s sure to keep a smile on everyone’s face. Further into the town is Toscanini, a fun stop for drinks and eats next to the Beaver Creek Village Ice Skating Rink, which turns into a courtyard with cornhole and other games during the summer.
What To Explore
The Slopes
The best-known method to explore Beaver Creek is by ski or snowboard. Beaver Creek Lodge has convenient rentals on-site—so there’s no need to walk around in clunky boots and gear. If you want to get a little off-site adventure in, the lodge is also a part of Beaver Creek’s shuttle service which works like a ride share app: very easy to use. Herr suggests riding up the gondola even if you aren’t going to ski because there’s a place to eat and grab drinks at the top.
The Trails
Since Beaver Creek Lodge is also open for their summer season, make sure to come back to raft, hike the Beaver Lake trail, picnic at Nottingham Lake, and even go horseback riding up the mountain with Beaver Creek Stables. Beaver Creek Lodge can set up all these activities for you in the blink of an eye.
Where To Rest
After your day is done, be sure to find the perfect suite for a small party with a resort view or water view, or even book the family suite for 750 square feet of space, a kitchenette, a dining area, and a living room with a gas fireplace ranging from $799 to $999. For a more luxurious and intimate experience for two guests looking to treat themselves to something special, book the Kessler Suite at $1,299 to $1,499 per night.
*Beaver Creek Lodge also offers three-bedroom condos featuring a full kitchen, grand living area, and a wood-burning fireplace. This stay comes in at $3,000 to $4,000 a night.
