Time is precious—especially these days. That’s why planning a one-night stay “close to home” makes the weekly grind a little more tolerable. So, with family in tow (one kid and a hubby), we packed a bag and ventured up I-70 for a little R&R. Located on a 19-acre site in Avon’s Vail Valley, The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa provides direct access to Beaver Creek Mountain and the Eagle River. Captivated by their emphasis on food and relaxation (two of my personal favorite topics); the resort had me at hello. In all honesty, we contemplated booking a second night on the spot. With a multitude of activities on our doorstep, I decided to delve into their offerings pronto. Our list was expansive—a spa treatment and fitness class followed by star gazing, hot tubbing, and s’mores by the fire. And of course satisfying our culinary chops before, after, and in between all of the above. (It was nice to also have the option of enjoying the main foyer ambiance relaxing by the cozy fireplace between spa and food interludes.) The stage was set. The accommodations were complete with our very own private studio apartment. The resort boasts 230 guest residences, ranging from spacious studio suites to three-bedroom condos, each featuring custom kitchens, five-piece bathrooms, gas fireplaces, and a Westin Heavenly Bed. A luxurious 24-hour escape from the city was underway.
Where to Dine
As we made our way to Maya (a modern Mexican kitchen and tequila bar that serves an approachable menu highlighting authentic, fresh Mexican flavors) for our 6 p.m. reservation, we couldn’t help but notice the lovely heated patio dining area. The views were picturesque indeed—a calming mist floated above the year-round outdoor salt water pool and fire pits, accompanied by kids happily roasting s’mores, glowed while adults sipped on handcrafted cocktails from the Lookout Lobby Bar. Hence, we were excited about dinner, but couldn’t wait to relax outside. The bar is strategically situated in the center of the resort with easy access to the terrace for star gazing; and offers an expanded menu of bites, sandwiches, flatbreads, and entrées—as well as an extensive selection of craft cocktails and Colorado microbrews. There’s also the new Riverfront Market, which features many unique grab-and-go items as well as exclusive gift and pampering options for you and your pets—plus the Lift Café, an on-site Starbucks, and in-room dining, of course!
What to Eat
Maya’s sommelier, Grant Lewis, was awarded his certifications from the Court of Master Sommeliers and the Wine & Spirit Education Trust (WSET). He’s been the food and beverage manager for two years, and loves spending time on the mountain when he’s not pursuing his true passion: creating and maintaining a stellar beverage program. “Maya restaurant is a unique experience in the valley offering traditional Mexican cuisine,” says Lewis. “We have an extensive Tequila and Mezcal list which we will happily make into a custom flight for you. Along with our seasonal cocktail and wine lists designed to pair with our cuisine.” In the winter, skiers are given a free margarita if they can show that they’ve traversed over 20k vertical feet on the mountain. “[Additionally] I have created a custom wine selection as well as ready to drink cocktail options to take on the mountain or up to your room.”
What to Do
Get a Massage
Spa Anjali offers an extensive menu of treatments focusing on healing mountain traditions. Happy to enjoy some pampering from massage therapist Yosuke Seki, the Magnesium Melt massage begins with a full-body exfoliation with a magnesium-rich cream, followed by a full-body massage. Magnesium promotes healthy energy levels, muscle function, and overall wellbeing, while also decreasing anxiety and reducing tension in the nerves and muscles. $230 for 75 minutes. Note: Spa Anjali is currently offering daily custom and CBD massages; as well as such salon services as haircuts, color treatments, manicures, and pedicures. spaanjali.com
Get a Workout
The state-of-the art Athletic Club features extensive cardio and weightlifting equipment. In the summer months, The Westin rolls out an extensive schedule of outdoor group exercise classes, including Vinyasa yoga, Flow & Restore yoga, HIIT, Interval Weight Training, and Total Body Conditioning. Led by professional trainers, the classes take place on the resort’s 4,000-square-foot Event Lawn, giving participants plenty of room to spread out and enjoy the sounds of the Eagle River running below. For those who prefer quieter mind/body exercise, you can also book Restorative Yoga sessions in the Yoga Studio.
Get Outdoors
The Westin Riverfront’s prime location in the heart of the Vail Valley generates endless opportunities to get outside and enjoy the fresh mountain air even in the warmer months—including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, golf, tennis, kayaking, and fly fishing. You can also enjoy a stroll or bike ride along the 40-mile Eagle River trail, which runs directly in front of the resort. On our visit, we couldn’t resist taking advantage of The Westin’s outdoor saltwater pool and three infinity hot tubs after dinner. No matter what you chose to do, this all-encompassing destination has something for everyone. (And did I mention that The Westin is pet-friendly too?)
*Note: In response to COVID-19, The Westin Riverfront is closely following the guidelines set by the Centers for Disease Control, local government, and public health department and will continue to make changes as necessary to our safety protocols and social distancing procedures.
