So, you’re a bona fide beach lover. But, there is this lingering curiosity about what it would be like to take a vacation in the snow. Whether it’s a family snow vacation you’re considering or a romantic winter getaway, it can be a little daunting to figure out how to tackle that kind of trip for the first time. How about a little help?
First off, you need to decide how you want to experience the snow. If the idea of shooshing down the slopes and enjoy apres ski drinks at the bar sounds appealing, you definitely need to consider a ski resort vacation. Of course we’re biased, but the Steamboat Ski Resort would be our pick, among all the great ski resorts in the country. I have always been biased to finding a hotel or condo right on the slopes, so you can walk out your condo door and put your skis on right away. But, there are plenty of places that offer shuttle services too, so don’t be put off by a little distance from the ticket office. If you are downhill skiing for the first time, I have one and only one suggestion. Get lessons. Pay the extra to have an instructor show you the ropes. It is too frustrating, and you are spending too much money on this vacation already, not to go the extra mile to do it right.
If the crowds and social scene of a big ski resort aren’t up your alley, what are your options? You could just rent a small cabin in the woods somewhere with snow and have a DIY snow vacation. Buy a cheap sled for the kids, bring along some hot chocolate, and enjoy. Or, you can visit a cross country ski lodge. There is some great cross country skiing in Colorado, but there are also nice ski lodges in the other Western states as well as the East Coast. Some are more geared toward family snow vacation, and some just for hard cord cross country skiers.
Of course, I left my personal favorite option for the finale. A winter guest ranch! It is the best of both worlds for a winter vacation idea. You get the snow, the beautiful Lodge, the great meals, the beautiful vistas, the warm Western hospitality, all wrapped up in an all inclusive package. All you need to do is get to the airport, and we take it from there. No rental car, shuttle services, or bellhops to tip. At Vista Verde, we will pick you up from the Steamboat airport and whisk you off to the ranch with a friendly driver. Once at the ranch, you can choose daily from a diverse offering of activities. No planning ahead of time, calling around for the best options, or finding the lines too long. Snowshoe, sled, horseback ride, sleigh ride, you name it….we’ll provide you a personalized and unique experience. Meals are all included, as is beer and wine. So, once again, no reservations, long waits or planning needed. Just show up at mealtime, and we’ll take it from there. If you have kids, it’s a great option for introducing them to the snow as your cabin is right there to go back to for dry clothes or to take a break. Honeymooners find it a unique option as the planning is easy, the setting romantic, and the service top notch.
Whatever path you choose, we hope you’ll give it a try. Winter is fun, especially when you dont have to worry about shovelling your driveway! Come see why we love winter vacations at Vista Verde Ranch!