Luxurious Winter Getaway in Beaver Creek, CO (dog-friendly)
The luxurious Beaver Creek may sometimes get passed over by its renowned neighbor Vail, but make no mistake, Beaver Creek has much to offer for the luxury (or even want to be a luxury) traveler. Situated at the base of the mountains overlooking Avon, Beaver Creek offers world-class skiing & snowboarding, hospitality, dining, and during the summer months, hiking and golfing. Beaver Creek is a 2 hour drive from the city of Denver making it a less busy location for the heavy day trip traffic that other ski towns receive. Visiting Beaver Creek in the winter months is the coziest time to experience the area.
During my last visit to Beaver Creek, I was reminded of how peaceful and relaxing a winter trip in the Colorado mountains can be. If you are searching for a calm winter getaway where the amenities available never end then Beaver Creek, Colorado is your next destination to explore.
The snow continued to fall in huge heavy chunks as we made our way along i70 exiting through Avon. As we approached the entrance to Beaver Creek Resort I couldn’t help but feel important as we drove through the gated entrance to the resort area. After entering through the gate we passed dozens of world flags along the road. These flags represent the nations that competed at the 2015 FIS International Ski Federation Alpine World Ski Championships and were a gentle reminder of how lucky I am to live in a place with such great skiing in my backyard.
On arrival at the Park Hyatt, I immediately noticed all the small touches. The warm overhead heaters as you valet your car and the cleanly pressed suits of the staff. The fresh hot chocolate waiting for me to sip in the lobby and the vaper firepit at the entrance. The Park Hyatt Hotel is located at the base of the ski mountain situated in the small village of Beaver Creek. This hotel couldn’t be more convenient for skiers & boarders. The lifts are steps away and the hotel provides ski/board valet.
Park Hyatt hotels are typically dog friendly and on this trip, we brought my border collie, Monty. When we walked through the doors of our room they had prepared a bed, bowl, and packet of treats & poop bags for us. Monty was pretty much allowed everywhere in the hotel. While I spent my days on the slopes, my mom and Monty roamed the hotel and the shops in the village square. If you are accustomed to traveling with your dog then you will be pleasantly surprised with how easy it is with dogs in Beaver Creek.
If you are sticking to hotels while in Beaver Creek my other recommendations would be the Ritz Carlton at Bachelor Gulch and the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa in Avon. While the Ritz is far more expensive than the Park Hyatt, it is also located directly at the base of the mountain. The Ritz has one of the best lounge areas to grab a cocktail and listen to music. Beaver Creek has a shuttle van that is free to ride and it can connect you to all the stops. The other recommendation I have is the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa. It is not directly on the mountain, but there is a gondola that will connect you up.
We woke up slowly each morning of our stay with views of snow-capped mountains. With no real rush, since the lift was just steps away and the crowds small, I had the relaxing morning I typically yearn for during the work week. Our room had a Nespresso machine with different types of pods that made for the perfect wake-up caffeine treat. After a half day on the mountain skiing I came in and headed straight for the spa.
A trip to Beaver Creek isn’t complete without spending one day at the Spa of your choice. My go-to spa is the exhale Spa at the Park Hyatt. I have come several times even for just day trips when I am not staying at the hotel. A recommendation for those who live in close areas or who are traveling to Beaver Creek during April/May timeframes…TravelZoo has discounted services during mud season for exhale Spa. You can get seriously good deals and do not have to be staying at the hotel to take advantage of a full spa day here. The Spa has 1 large shared hot tub, a full outdoor pool plus hot tubes, and separate facilities for men & women with a warmer hot tub, steam room, rain shower, and relaxation room. I have gotten both a massage service and a facial and have never been disappointed. Prices with the Travelzoo coupon start at $145 and without the coupon, I have paid anywhere from $175-$250. As a hotel guest or with a spa day you get full access to the gym. They just remodeled it and got new equipment as of February 2024. It is one of the nicest hotel gyms I have used.
I didn’t have to travel far to find yummy food. Since we only had 2 days, we selected to stay close to the village and Bachelor Gulch area for our meals. The first night we grabbed drinks in the beautiful lobby where live music and fun times are held. Following this we ate at the Park Hyatt 8100 Mountainside Bar & Grill. I would recommend this restaurant for their brunch over dinner. While dinner is good, the morning meal is where they shine.
The next day after a full day of skiing, spa, and shopping, we ventured on the free shuttle to the Ritz. We started at Buffalos Bar with a glass of wine and ate dinner at WLYD. There were plenty of options for two vegetarians and we could still hear the live music coming from the lounge area. The bar was flowing with people dressed in their furs and luxury winter fits.
Each time I visit Beaver Creek I find true relaxation. It is a true place for a luxurious escape. Any time of year is a great time to visit, but winter is extra magical. I always return well rested and thankful for the escape.
