Colorado is known for having an amazing music scene.  The artists that come through Aspen’s famed Belly Up are no exception to the rule.  This music venue has been selling out shows since 1979, so  If you plan on traveling to Aspen or Snowmass make sure seeing a show at Belly Up is at the top of your list.  Locals rave about it, while others drive many miles to see their favorite artists perform here.

Belly Up is setup in a tiered manner, making for an outstanding concert experience.  In the far back of the venue you’ll find the bar which provides standing room and limited seating around the perimeter, a few feet lower is the VIP area, and further down is where the main dancing area is in front of the stage.  The venue is intimate (450 people at maximum capacity) allowing for an incredible light show and the opportunity to get up close and personal with your favorite artists. The sound at Belly Up Aspen is not surprising amazing so you can count on an overall stellar experience.  Get your tickets early, because this venue sells out shows fast!

Here’s a look at some of the upcoming shows happening at Belly Up Aspen.

• April 25 – Oakhurst – Album Release Party
• May 16 – Mishka * AnuhaMay 28 – Mt. Eden
• June 8 – Indigo Girls
• June 7 – Jimmie Vaughan and The Tilt-A-Whirl Band Feat. Lou
• June 13^th – The Dandy Warhols
• June 17 – Mickey Avalon

After a night of dancing you’ll want to comfy bed to come home to.  Call Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals today and our Aspen local will help set you up with lodging in Aspen conveniently located close to Belly Up.

The Summer Teva Mountain Games held in Vail, Colorado is pretty much one of the coolest events held all summer.  The Games combine athletes, art, and music, all in the beautiful mountain setting of Vail, Colorado.  This year’s event will kick off May 31 and conclude June 3, 2012.  So I’d like to let you know why the Teva Mountain Games are at the top of my summer hit list.

1) Swag!  Who doesn’t love free stuff?  At the Teva Mountain Games, free is pretty easy to come by.   Being a respected and well established event has its perks when it comes to attracting Sponsors. Whether is free stickers, socks, or Chipotle burritos, – there is swag to be had!  At Teva, the vendors’ line up tents throughout Vail Village, which is better known as “Gear Town”.  Gear Town attracts really cool companies who are there to educate and introduce their products to like-minded consumers.  In fact, I’ve discovered some really cool companies through Gear Town over the years!

2)  Free Music!
The Vail Valley Foundation never disappoints when it comes to booking amazing artists to perform for free during the event.  Last year at the Teva Mountain Games The Dirty Heads and Xavier Rudd both put on amazing shows!  Organizers haven’t released the line-up for this year’s event yet, but I’m confident that when they do, it will be something to look forward to.

3)   Amazing athletes
No matter what event you find yourself at during the Games, you’re going to have a good time.  Athletes come from around the globe to compete in kayaking, rock climbing, mountain biking, rafting, and much more during the Games.  There are even competitions for our little furry friends in Golden Peak.  Last year our office dog Aussie got a taste of the action in the Duck Dogs Competition.

4)      Participate!
You don’t have to be a professional athlete to engage in some friendly competition at the Teva Mountain Games.  There is a 10k, Vail Pass Marathon and Mud Run among other events that anyone can register for.  Last year me and a few girls I work with did the Mud Run and has a blast and half!

Lodging in Vail comes in a great price during the summer months.  I recommend calling one of our Destination Specialists today to learn more about the Teva Mountain Games and secure a place to stay!

Colorado is unofficially the most amazing state there is – one that is generally known for its epic winters.  With 26 ski and snowboard areas in the state it’s no wonder people flock here to vacation during the winter months.  The mountains are huge, temperatures are mild and not to mention, Colorado people are downright awesome. But, winter is not all that Colorado has to offer.

 

Ask a Colorado local about what it’s like here in the summer and you’ll likely get an earful.  This state comes alive!  From the natural beauty to the adventures to the landscape, you just can’t help but dedicate yourself to new hobbies and challenges; they just come with the terrain.   Up in the higher elevations,  the hills become crowded with mountain bikers, backpackers, fishers, rafters, hikers, campers, concerts and everything else that comes to mind when you think of the great outdoors.

 

In recent years, resort markets like Vail and Aspen have invested heavily in marketing their resort as a summer destination.  With that has spurred a lot of development in special events and infrastructure to support these destination drivers.  From participatory sporting events to those focused on culture and the arts, there is something here for everyone.  Check out some the signature events happening throughout Colorado ski towns in the summer of 2012!

Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival – June 25 – August 4^th 2012
Food and Wine Classic in Aspen – June 15-17, 2012
Telluride Bluegrass Festival – June 21-24, 2012
Teva Mountain Games Vail – May 31 – June 3, 2012
Breckenridge Kingdom Days – June 18-19, 2012
Warrior Dash at Copper Mountain – August 18 – 19, 2012
Check out this short teaser of Colorado in the summer, presented by Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals.

Really, I could go on for days about the amazing things possible during a Colorado summer. However, I think it best that you come experience what it’s like for yourself. Give one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals. at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals a call today to plan your summer vacation to Colorado!

The Gant is one of our favorite hotel style condo properties in Aspen.  Its secluded location offers privacy, but still puts you in walking distance to the heart of Aspen.  Every condo at The Gant is individually owned, giving each one its own unique style.  Additionally, all of the condos are rated as either standard, deluxe or premier, based on the interior décor and design of the condo, so you can get exactly what you are looking for.

The Standard units are described as comfortable and cozy condominiums at a reasonable price, while the Deluxe units offer a more luxurious feel due to the higher-end décor. Finally, the Premier units at The Gant boast fine furnishings and incomparable style.   The accommodations range from one to four bedrooms all of which include full kitchens, fireplaces, and private balconies.

One of my favorite things about The Gant is the outdoor heated pools and hot tubs.  They are set against the mountains so you can relax in an intimate, private setting.  Also at The Gant, guests can enjoy use of the fitness facility, saunas and tennis courts.

 

During your stay at The Gant you can choose to walk into the heart of Aspen, or hop on The Gant’s free shuttle that will take you into the center of town.  The customer service provided at the Gant is nothing short of exceptional and I invite to you come experience it for yourself.  Call one of our Destination Specialists today to reserve your stay at The Gant in beautiful Aspen, Colorado.

At Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, we work to find travelers to find the vacation rentals of their dreams in the mountains.  Some travelers want the best of the best, and that’s when we tell them about the amazing 917 Bachelor Ridge Road ski-in/ski-out access home in Bachelor Gulch of Beaver Creek.

This 7 bedroom, 7.5 bath ski-in/ski-out residence is stunning from the outside, but it’s the interior that will really blow you away.  Rich mahogany wood and stone archways are utilized throughout the home, giving it a modern feel with elegant taste.  In fact, “luxurious,” is the best way to sum up every detail of 917 Bachelor Ridge Road.  In the family room you’ll find a home theater opening up to the billiards room.  Here you can play a game, catch a flick, or mix up a cocktail at the wet bar.  Right outside the family room is a patio where you will find your private hot tub built into the rocks, offering a view of the Gore Range like no other.

The residence features 7 bedrooms, sleeping a total of 20 guests, making this the perfect home for a large group or family traveling together.  Guests can enjoy time together at the private outdoor swimming pool, or have a pizza party by utilizing the wood burning pizza oven.  For those who need to get some work done, they will appreciate the home office at the residence.

Upstairs, in the Great Room, you can find a place to relax on one of the many luxurious furnishings placed throughout the room.  Just outside, on the wrap-around patio, you can’t help but smile at the views of the Gore Range in front of you.    When it’s time to get out there and play, simply ski down to the Bachelor Gulch Chairlift!  From here you can spend the day exploring Beaver Creek, knowing that when you come home exhausted, the hot tub, steam room and sauna await you!

917 Bachelor Ridge Road is one of the most beautiful ski-in/ski-out access homes in Beaver Creek.  It will truly delight anyone who is fortunate enough to call it home for a few days. Call one of our Destination Specialists today to learn more and plan your vacation to Beaver Creek or any one of our other fun filled Destinations.

When it comes down to it, the location of the lodging property you select to spend your week long vacation in can either make or break your vacation experience. Personally, when I’m planning a ski vacation location is everything.  I want to be steps from the lifts (if not ski-in/ski-out), close to restaurants, shopping and of course the nightlife.  On my ideal vacation, nothing is too far away and your “home” is always just a quick walk away.  There is nothing I appreciate more than being able to ski my heart out and retreat effortlessly to my condo when I decide that my body needs a rest.  Once I’ve spent some time by the fire rejuvenating, in an instant I can be back on the lifts.  If this sounds like your kind of vacation, then look no further than Lionshead Centre Condominiums for your Vail lodging needs.

The Lionshead Centre Condominiums are located in the heart of Lionshead Village.  When I say the heart, I mean you are a mere 50 yards from the Eagle Bahn Gondola and Born Free Express Lift that will take you up Vail Mountain and you can be sure that Old Forge Pizza will be busy cooking up delicious pies beneath you.  Ski Rentals?  Done – Double Diamond Ski Shop is right there to take care of all of your rental equipment and gear needs.  Location! Location! Location!

Lionshead Centre offers two bedroom and three bedroom condos in Lionshead Village.  Step inside your condo and you’ll be delighted with the up close and personal views offered of Vail Mountain right outside your window.  You’ll also enjoy other amenities offered at Lionshead Centre such as a full kitchen, free wi-fi, a fireplace and ski-in/ski-out access.

From the warmth of your condo you have the luxury of watching skiers cascade down Vail Mountain, or you can step outside and relax in the year-round heated pool and sauna on the property. When it comes time to hit the town you are literally steps away from Vail’s free in-town shuttle that provides frequent service to Vail Village, Golden Peak and Lionshead Village.  But why leave Lionshead when there are plenty of restaurants, great shopping and fun bars, such as Garfinkel’s, to keep you entertained!?

The Lionshead Centre Condominiums are sure to leave a lasting impression on everyone traveling with you!   If you’re looking for something different, Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals offers  properties of all shapes and sizes in other great locations throughout Vail and the Colorado Rockies.   Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations ,and Call today! (877) 811-7713

 

Unique hardly describes the stunning Castlewood residence in Telluride.  Castlewood is Telluride’s finest private home marveling 17,300 square feet of indoor living space. And that’s just the beginning…

I challenge you to find anything quite like the estate, which includes

• Amazing hot springs that are built into the residence.  As the story goes, the hot springs were discovered many years ago and were enclosed within the guest house, left mostly in their “natural state” with exposed rock, waterfalls, and two tubs to soak in.
• Exterior hot tub outside of the 2-story master suite.
• History. Constructed to appear nearly 200 years old, you’ll find rich patina on every surface throughout the estate.
• A Murphy bed in the wine cellar tasting room!
• 3 twin beds in the observatory tower (yes there is an observatory tower)
• 4 washers and dryers
• 10 bedrooms, 10 full bathrooms, 6 steam showers and room to sleep 35 people!
• 3 interconnected but separate living quarters
• A theater – you have never seen a home theater like this!

Now imagine your perfect day of skiing…Got it? Castlewood is bound to offer all you can dream of and more. You will wake to sun rising over the San Juan mountain range outside your bedroom window, and be greeted soon after waking by a steam shower. Follow it up with a cup of Joe in the stunning gourmet kitchen (one of 3 full kitchens available to our guests).  Once you’re ready for the slopes, head over to the guest house to warm your boots and gloves prior to hopping on your skis and skiing down Double Cabins Ski Run. Ski. Ski. Ski.

Once you’ve exhausted your muscles covering all of Telluride’s diverse terrain, ski home for lunch, perhaps prepared by a private chef.  After your meal, why not opt for a private in-home massage in the guest house’s Spa room.  It already has massage tables set up, and even includes a incredible mechanical massage table for those impromptu massages! Then get out there and ski some more—you will have plenty of time to relax in luxury when you return home where the Castlewood Hot Springs await your return!

This magnificent room features a main hot spring pool and a separate hydro full-body massage tub, sauna and steam bath. While all of this is very tantalizing, what really tops off this room is the ice cold beer available from one of five taps in the room, filled with your favorite beer.

 

Once your body is rejuvenated, go ahead and challenge someone to a game of billiards in the game room or dance to your favorite tunes on the surround sound speaker system. After having some fun, there is nothing like a big meal in the Great Room where you’re surrounded by antique woods and fine furnishings.

With 23 beds at the property, it will be an adventure just deciding where you want to lay your head! Eight of the bedrooms have their own flat screen TV with access to the house media system.  This means that you can start your night watching a movie in the theater and then finish that same movie in your bedroom.  If you’re feeling in the mood for a good book, make your way to library for an expansive collection of classic reads.

 

The Castlewood estate is the perfect place for family reunions, wedding receptions, or any large group traveling to Telluride.  If you’re bringing a crew of people with you, look no further than the Castlewood estate to accommodate all of your group’s needs.  Call our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® today at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals to learn more about the Castlewood estate and book your dream vacation today.

If I were going through a check list of everything that I think it important when choosing lodging for a ski vacation, the Capitol Peak Lodge in Snowmass would fill the list with check marks.  Located in the new Base Village of Snowmass, Capitol Peak Lodge is a ski-in/ski-out condominium property, providing  immediate access to Snowmass Resort’s 3,132 acres of skiable terrain.  With that large of a mountain to cover in a day, it’s important for me to be right there on the slopes.  I’d rather pay a little bit more for a ski-in/ski-out location, because on my annual ski vacation things like figuring out bus schedules and lugging my skis around is not something that interests me.  Who wants to carry their skis to the slopes when you could be skiing on them right out the door? …Ski-in/ski-out is the way to go.

At the Capitol Peak Lodge everything in the studio, one, two, and three bedroom condos is state-of-the-art.  Each rental features an HD flat screen TV and DVD player, Ipod docking station, gas fireplace and full kitchen, featuring the latest modern appliances.   While at Capitol Peak Lodge I can ski a few runs until I’m tired, and then ski back to my condo to cook a hearty meal for lunch before I head back on the mountain. I actually start to feel sorry for those stuck in the lodge spending $12+ on a burger, drinking $6 PBRs, when I’m chilling on the couch in my room, sitting by the fireplace on my lunch break.  At the end of the day I’ll typically take advantage of Capitol Peak Guests’ complimentary access to the Snowmass Club, a 19,000 square foot state of the art athletic club.  Swimming laps or soaking in the hot tub does a sore body some good after a day on the mountain, and when I really feel like pulling out all the stops I’ll relax with one of their many services offered at the spa.

Other amenities I enjoy while staying at Capitol Peak Lodge are the valet, daily housekeeping service, underground parking and complimentary Aspen Airport transportation–they really take care of you here.  Next time you’re looking for lodging in Snowmass, Colorado, I highly recommend checking out the Capitol Peak Lodge.

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation to Snowmass or any of our fun-filled destinations.

Col•o•ra•do (kah-luh-RA-doe) – a state in the west central united states that serves as the ultimate year-round playground due to its undeniable beauty, natural terrain, and perfect seasons. Colorado natives see no reason to leave, and non-natives get here as fast as they can because some just want to play.

This past summer I was introduced to various events that come through Colorado like the Tough Mudder, Warrior Dash and Spartan Challenge.  All of these circuit events are obstacle adventure races that require participants to get down and dirty on a course that tests one’s endurance, strength, stamina, and mental grit. These people don’t mess around…

Footage from last years Warrior Dash

These events are gaining popularity each year as more and more events of this nature continue to spring up. I’m going to let you in on a little secret about THE next event in the world of obstacle adventure racing – The Innagural Mojo Man Adventure Race will take place in Vail, Colorado over the 2012 Memorial Day weekend. Produced by Highline Sports and Entertainment, Mojo Man will occur right before the Teva Mountain Games and give Vail a surge of visitors over Memorial Day Weekend.

Mojo Man will feature Vail Mountain as the backdrop for the event, with participants racing between Vail and Lionshead Villages. The races will be designed to cater to racers of different ages and athletic abilities.  This is perfect for me, because as much fun as something like the Tough Mudder looks, I could never compete amongst those athletes!  Also, Mojo Man could potentially get the summer season started a week early in Vail—who doesn’t like that?  I look forward to seeing how plans for the race will develop over the next few months, and I will be sure to update you along the way.

Mojo Man will be one of the many great events going on in Colorado this summer, so call our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® to start planning your vacation to Colorado today.

You could say I’m addicted to traveling. I’ve traveled to many places around the world, and can say that my most memorable travel experiences have been those either spent with a local or created due to a locals’ advice. Most will agree that planning a vacation to a new place can be overwhelming, especially when making decisions on where to stay, what activities to do and what companies to use. These important decisions are typically driven by guide books and the internet, leaving travelers wondering whether they made the right decisions or not.
That is why Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals fits so well into a unique niche in vacation planning. Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.® is not only our tagline, it’s exactly what people get when they call any of our offices in the Colorado Rockies. Whether you call Telluride, Aspen, Vail or Breckenridge, the person who answers the phone is local to the area they love to call home and takes pride in helping you plan your perfect mountain vacation.

Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals’ staff is a group of mountain enthusiasts who (in the winter) arrive to work early and stay late in order to catch fresh powder lines during the day. We can suggest a lodging property because we’ve seen it, recommend epic ski runs because we’ve skied them, and we will be here during your vacation to answer any questions you may have. No one else in the industry possesses the passion and product knowledge that we do and it clearly shows in our guests’ experiences.  We want people to leave with such an amazing feeling about their vacation that they are already thinking about coming back again.
It’s easy to find out what’s “touristy” in town.  However, it often takes time to search around for the best runs on the mountain or the best après ski cocktail in town. These things require local advice. Lucky for you, our destination specialists enjoy helping vacationers find out what to do and where to stay to better suit their vacation experience. We love where we live and take pride in the service we provide our guests. So plan your next ski vacation with one of our Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.® and you’ll never want to do it any other way.

 

Snowmass is a beautiful village located in the Brush Creek Valley in the Colorado Rockies. It is a small village, and while it lacks the vastness of other resorts it is consistently rated as one of the top family ski resorts in the United States. Upon your arrival to Snowmass you will immediately get a feeling of comfort and peace. Snowmass will meet your every need; they have casual and fine dining that will make your taste buds dance, excellent shopping and wonderful family entertainment. Also, Snowmass ski area is the largest of the four Aspen/Snowmass Mountains (the others are Ajax, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk). In fact, it is larger than the other three mountains combined, so you will always be able to find a variety of terrain creating challenges for all skill levels.  You will never get bored here, as the event and activity schedule for Snowmass is packed. Further, if you ever wanted to experience something else you are just minutes away from Aspen village, Aspen Mountain (Ajax), Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk Mountain.

Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals has a large inventory in Snowmass, all you need to do is browse our site or pick up the phone and give us a call. We will find the property that fulfills all your vacation needs while providing superb concierge services for all your favorite activities. Your dream property could, for instance, be one of the beautiful condominiums at the Hayden Lodge in heart of the new Base Village in Snowmass.

The Hayden Lodge is located slope-side with ski-in/ski-out access, providing quick and easy access to the Mountain throughout the day. They offer Studio, 1, 2 and 3 Bedroom condos, along with hotel rooms, giving you plenty of options for your lodging. All properties have a fully-equipped kitchen with Energy Star rated appliances, allowing you to cook for your whole party. If you are traveling with a loved one, you might even be lucky enough to get breakfast in bed!

In all of the rooms you will find soft Egyptian cotton sheets, washer/dryer units and a gas fireplace. You can also use the complimentary high-speed internet to upload all your magnificent vacation pictures and make everyone else jealous, wishing they were vacationing with you. On-site you will also find a recreational Jacuzzi, which is perfect for unwinding after a long day exploring Snowmass. Another amazing amenity at the Hayden Lodge is the daily housekeeping service. After all, it’s always great to return to a cleaned room after a day of skiing on your well deserved vacation. The Lodge also has a heated parking garage, so feel free to bring a car with you. However, there is a free shuttle to the Aspen Airport and a free shuttle within Snowmass Village.

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

The Teva Mountain Games is without a doubt one of my favorite events of the summer. The games ignite an undeniable energy in athletes and spectators, while showcasing the stunning natural terrain that makes Vail a great year-round playground for athletes.

Not to my surprise, when the Vail Valley Foundation announced that they would be introducing the Winter Teva Mountain Games from February 10-12, 2012, I was stoked. Just like the summer games, the Winter Teva Mountain Games will celebrate athletes, art, music, and mountains through three days of athletic competitions, photo competitions, free concerts, demos and expos.

The Winter Teva Mountain Games will attract professional and amateur athletes who will compete for the $60,000 cash purse over the three day of event. Presented by Eddie Bauer, there are various different competitions: mixed climbing, mountain, big air and dual slalom biking, Nordic and telemark skiing, ski mountaineering, snowshoe racing, and a one-day vertical challenge in Vail’s famous back bowls! To compliment the competitions, The Spazmatics and Theophilus London will perform free concerts in Vail Village on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Vail Valley Foundation expects the Teva Winter Games to grow to the size of the Teva Summer Games over the next five years. All I can say is bring it on!

Don’t miss the inaugural 2012 Winter Teva Mountain Games! Call Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals today to plan your customized vacation today!

The town of Telluride is surrounded by majestic mountains– and in these mountains you will find uncrowded lifts and wide open terrain. In Telluride there is skiing for skiers and snowboarders of every level because of the mixed terrain, making it the ideal vacation destination for the whole family. One of the favorite runs for experts is The Plunge; for intermediates, See Forever; and for  beginners the 4.7 mile Galloping Goose.

Telluride gets an annual average snowfall of 309 inches–789 centimeters, giving you plenty of opportunities to catch some of the most desired powder in Colorado and North America. There are a lot of on mountain activities throughout the year, and during the winter season you should be sure to attend one or several of the following activities:

Complimentary Mountain Tours

On this free daily tour, intermediate and above skiers and snowboarders will learn about Telluride’s history and the surrounding environment. The tour starts daily at 10 am from the top at Coonskins Lift.

 

NASTAR Racing

No matter what level you are, if you visit the NASTAR racing course you are sure to challenge yourself and get the adrenaline pumping. You will be nationally ranked against others of same gender and age with the opportunity to win bronze, silver and gold medals. It is open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the Butterfly ski run.

Terrain Parks

-Ute Park: For beginners, the park is located off the Ute Lift (number 11). It has mini snow-cross, basic small jumps and ride-on boxes.

-Misty Maiden Park: For intermediate to advanced riders, the park is located left of the lower part of Misty Maiden–there is a green entry gate. It has medium jumps, rails and boxes.

-Hoot Brown Park: The advanced Hoot Brown park is located on the left-hand side of Butterfly–there is a pillar entrance with orange Smart Style Signs. Even if you don’t feel comfortable riding in this park, it is worth swinging by to see all the amazing stunts that the more experienced skiers and snowboarders can perform. This park has large jumps, rails and boxes. 

 

TopAten Nordic and Snowshoe Area

At the top of Sunshine Express (lift 10) is the TopAten Nordic and Snowshoe Area. The area offers 10 km of groomed trails with a stunning views of Telluride and the surrounding mountains. Different tours are available at TopAten, such as guided snowshoe and cross-country tours. The guides are experts, and for two to three hours you will learn about the wildlife and world surrounding Telluride and Southwest Colorado. 

Snowbiking

Snowbiking is a fun activity for all levels, and here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals we love snowbiking because of the adrenaline rush and the fun times that result. A two hour certification class is required and tours are offered Tuesday and Fridays at 1:30 p.m.

 

Before leaving the mountain after a long day, visit one of the many restaurants located on the mountain or in the town. It is a unique experience to dine in a lodge located on a mountain side while taking in the stunning panoramic views. 

 

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations. 

 

Timing
Learn to love the “unpopular” months to ski!  You can save mucho dinero by traveling the weeks after New Years and before President’s Day Weekend while getting the same great snow. It’s known that with holidays come crowded runs, lengthy lift lines and tracked out snow conditions. Think ahead, or just follow the powder report and I promise you’ll be happy.

Plan Your Shred Scope
Colorado is ski resort heaven! It hardly makes sense to fly all the way out here and be limited to skiing at just one resort. Each resort offers completely unique features and terrain and the same goes for the towns that surround them. If you are an experienced, confident driver in the snow, then what’s stopping you from renting a car for a day or two? Only 4-wheel or all-wheel drives will do—don’t forget you’re going to need room to stash all your gear. Before you rent a car, check with your lodging property to see what kind of parking they offer. Otherwise you’re going to end up paying $25 a day for parking. If this is the case, it might be smarter to hire a shuttle or take Public Transit to get you from point A to point B.

Purchase Travel Insurance
I cannot recommend travel insurance enough if you’re planning on taking a ski vacation this winter. Flying into Denver or other regional airports in Colorado during the winter is never a guarantee. We’ve had guests end up missing their whole trip due to inclement weather. That’s thousands of dollars lost in booked lodging, life tickets, and transportation. Talk to our Destination Specialist about adding CSA Travel Insurance to protect your vacation and your pocketbook. If anything does go wrong, CSA acts as your personal travel agent to get you back on track.

HYDRATE!!
The most important tip for any traveler is HYDARATION. Altitude sickness is a quick way to ruin a vacation and an all too common occurrence for travelers in the high Rockies. Avoid it—drink more water than you think you should before you arrive and during your trip.  Camelbacks are a lifesaver on the ski hill! I should also mention that alcohol hits your blood stream much quicker and harder at high altitudes. You’ll likely feel tipsy after just one beer, hinting that you need to drink more water and possibly slow down your drinking; hangovers are a sure bet to keep you from getting first chair the next morning!

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^®can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

Located just 75 yards from the ski lift to one of the best ski resorts in America lies the Vail 21 condominiums. The property offers a location that can’t be beat along with stunning views of the Rocky Mountains. Choose from one, two or two plus loft bedroom condos, able to sleep from two to six people.

Staying at Vail 21, you are able to cook a tasty dinner for your whole group in the comfort of your own full size kitchen. Guests may kick back and relax in front of the fireplace in the spacious living room or recline and gaze out on incredible mountain views through the floor to ceiling windows. Or step outside and take a breath of fresh mountain air from your private balcony. If you feel like leaving the condo, there is plenty to do in the town of Vail.

You can ski or snowboard in the breathtaking mountains, go ski biking (which is always a blast), build a giant snowman, go ice skating or just take in the beautiful scenery. In the Village you can find everything from world-class shopping to souvenir t-shits, or from interior decor to outdoor sporting gear. Also during the winter there are a variety of wonderful events such as live music, sports competitions, baking competitions and Christmas celebrations. Getting around town is made easy by the Vail free bus, so don’t hesitate to make a full list of activities to do while you are visiting. When you are feeling hungry and don’t feel like cooking at home, be sure to visit one of the many delicious restaurants in Vail for a variety of dining options.

When you return to Vail 21 condos, unwind in the outdoor rooftop and sauna. Keep your family and friends updated about your wonderful experiences throughout your vacation through complimentary internet, or watch your favorite game or television show on the TV. There is also a laundry facility at Vail 21, making laundry while on your vacation a breeze. Finally, there is daily housekeeping at the condos, giving guests the comfort of a hotel.

And remember, when you book by December 15^th you can save 15% OFF your lodging!

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^® can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation in any of our fun-filled destinations.

In a destination where luxury accommodations are everywhere you look, lodging providers must do much more to make themselves stand out as THE desired place to spend one’s vacation.  Aspen, Colorado, perched high above sea level in the Colorado Rockies at 7,908 feet, is known world-wide for its ritzy, world-class appeal.  From the bar-none shopping & dining to the luxury lodging, Aspen spares no detail in ensuring it  provides nothing but the best. The Aspen Square Condominium Hotel in Downtown Aspen particularly stands out at one of the best lodging options in Aspen.

Perfectly placed in downtown Aspen just a short walk from the slopes, this luxury property is designed to reflect a modern spa-like atmosphere that combines the luxury of staying in a private condo  with the amenities of a hotel. The property features a courtyard area bursting with flora and fauna, private lounge areas, and unmatched serenity. The outdoor heated pool and hot tubs are met with infinity waterfalls, all enclosed in the private setting provided by the property.

One of the best rooms is the Fireplace Studio Suite. The suite features a full kitchen, wood-burning fireplace and private balcony, all while providing comfortable living space for two. The One and Two Bedroom Suites offer a separate living area, superior amenities, deluxe bedding and scenic views of Aspen. For those seeking a premier lodging experience, the premium one-of-a-kind condos have three bedrooms, three baths, two living areas, a private courtyard, and two balconies. Regardless of where you choose to stay at the Aspen Square, you can be sure that your stay will be met with modern elegance and magic that only Aspen can provide.

Find out more about how our team of Friendly. Knowledgeable. Locals.^®can help you plan your customized summer or winter vacation to the Aspen Square or any of our fun-filled destinations.

Head on over to Beaver Creek and rent some snowshoes this winter to participate in their annual Snowshoe Adventure Race! Experts and first-timers of all ages are encouraged to participate. The event includes a 5K, 10K and a children’s 1K for those 12 and under.

 

The Snowshoe Adventure Race in Beaver Creek happens in three rounds over the course of three months. On January 8th, February 12th and March 11th there will be free snowshoe demos and basic instruction before the races begin. Also expect food, a prize raffle and an awards ceremony after each event. The competition really heats up, so start training now!

 

If you’re excited about snowshoeing, but not about racing, Beaver Creek has over 32 kilometers of groomed and rustic Cross Country and Snowshoe trails. Hop on the Strawberry Park Express Lift and pay a visit to McCoy Park for breath-taking views of three glorious mountain ranges. McCoy Park’s varying degrees of terrain, means plenty of trails for all skill levels.

 

Don’t want to hit the trails alone? Take a full or half-day snowshoe tour and discover local plants and animals as you learn about local history. Free hour-and-a-half long family tours are available on Tuesdays! And check out Beaver Creek’s new Moonlight tour between 6:30 and 8:30 for a special nighttime treat under the stars.

 

Whether you are planning a leisurely vacation or looking for some competition this winter, take a trip over to Beaver Creek where you’ll find exactly what you’re in the mood for. Call one of our Friendly.Knowledgeable.Locals.®  today to get your plans in motion.

 

It’s officially closing weekend in Vail, and I am packing up all the loose files and items that have scattered my desk space for nearly a year. I remember my first week with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals pretty well – it was the end of summer, gorgeous, and somewhat quiet in the Valley. I was itching for the sensation of feeling small, and my immersion into mountains seemed to be an accurate solution to fill this fix.

On Monday, this small mountain village will again crawl into a time of low-key hibernation, just as our neighboring bears are being drawn to the sweet smell of our trash. It’s a time for towns like Vail to rest, evaluate progress, transition, welcome our shared land to the wildlife, and melt into warm beginnings.

It does feel appropriate that today is my last with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals. It has been quite the trip throughout this past Fall, Winter, and Spring, in which I have seen a lot of changes in the weather, industry trends, clothing ensembles, outdoor activities, and people.

When you become a local to the Valley, sometimes it seems like faces pass like the clouds that bring snow, rain, and clarity. The mountains certainly do attract individuals with unique stories – whether they are on vacation from another part of the globe,

whether they came with a 2 year plan that turned into 20 (which really never surprises me), or whether Vail had to at least be one place to stop at for a while along the road… All of these scenarios share a common ground – a thirst for adventure.

Throughout my time working with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals, I have made many new friends, been enlightened by every individual’s unique story, gained knowledge of media relations for a private company, and had the pleasure of highlighting our successes. I must say, however, one of my favorite assignments was managing content for the company bios, interviewing new hires, and simply getting to know everyone. Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals is comprised of people that are driven, a little bit quirky, and absolutely sincere. Each story is different.

The seasonal nature of this town is a bittersweet reminder of transition. As I embark on new beginnings with the start of summer trickling into the mountains, I will not lose sight of the many lessons that someone like Tommy Z. Hoffman himself has taught me. Never cut yourself too short when it comes to compromise, and never cut yourself too short in taking a chance.

In the first blog I published in August for the company, I concluded my thoughts with “We are a team of friendly, knowledgeable, locals, and are eager to assist those of you with that itch to venture out here too.” Take a chance in the Colorado Rockies, and please support my good friends when you book with Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals!

Breckenridge Colorado Live Music

Guess what!? This Sunday Ozomatli will be in Breckenridge playing for FREE! It’s spring time here in the valley and that means a lot of free concerts. We just finished a series of Bud Light concerts in Vail but wait it’s not completely over. Now the Bud Light concert series has moved on to Breck and they have a great line up: Wailers, Devotchka, and Ozomatli to name a few.


Being a huge Ozo fan I’m super excited about them performing here in Colorado and for FREE. This band is high energy all the time, I don’t remember ever going to one of their concerts (yes I’ve been to several) and not danced the whole time they’re on stage. People that get to see them for the first time get hooked and become Ozo fans instantly. At least that’s been my experience with the people I’ve taken to the concert with me.


A little about the band (some info from their website): Ozomatli is an LA-based group with a great live presence, brewing a vital concoction of Latin salsa, urban hip-hop, and jazz-funk. Notorious urban-Latino-and-beyond collision of hip hop and salsa, dancehall and cumbia, samba and funk, merengue and comparsa, East LA and New Orleans second line, Jamaican ragga and Indian raga— has long followed a key mantra: it will take you around the world by taking you around L.A. They were invited by the U.S. State Department to serve as official Cultural Ambassadors on a series of government-sponsored international tours to Asia, Africa, South America, and the Middle East, tours that linked Ozomatli to a tradition of cultural diplomacy that also includes the esteemed likes of Duke Ellington, Benny Goodman, and Louis Armstrong.


Ozomatli has spent 15 years working diligently to spread its message of peace, communication and understanding through music, with a long standing tradition of performing for children all over the world, from the schools of North St. Louis to the orphanages of Southeast Asia. 2011 has the band focused on “oZoKidZ”, a special family friendly set geared towards performing for children and adults alike. The band are currently in the studio with acclaimed producer Tony Berg, recording a children’s album for release in 2011, followed by a book, DVD and tour

Concert Info: Sunday, April 10 from 3 – 5pm
Where: Get to the base area at Peak

For more info on the concerts in the area click here: Concerts


There are tons of events and things to do here in the area. For more info on these events and all your lodging needs, contact one of the Friendly, Knowledegable, Locals here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals

For More Gigs in Breck visit the Breckenridge Colorado Events Calendar

Vail Colorado Vacation Activities

 

Yesterday a few of us had the opportunity to try out ski biking in Vail with Adventure Ridge. It was by far the coolest thing I’ve done here in Vail since I moved out here. The first run was fun, as we went through some greens, some blues and then we went through some moguls. Next run was even better because this time we got to go through trees…YEAH TREES…totally sick!!!! Not to mention that we had so much pow from all the snow we’ve been getting lately. I got some air on a few of the tree runs! You HAVE to try this out.

The second run was probably the best because all the way we just went through trees and it was dark so the head lamp came in handy. For those of you that haven’t tried this or are considering ski biking I say DO IT!!! Contact Adventure Ridge for details and have an awesome time.

Some tips:
-If you have ski boots bring those, the ski blade attachments won’t work on snowboard boots (if you don’t have ski boots Adventure Ridge has them)
-Bring a helmet (it’ll be easier to attach the head lamp then if you’re just wearing a beanie and also for safety and Adventure Ridge does not provide you with those)
- wear appropriate ski gear, it is a late afternoon/evening thing so it will be chilly
- Go through the trees…don’t miss out and definitely do the moguls.

For more tips and help with all your lodging needs when you’re in Vail contact one of our Friendly, Knowledgeable, Locals here at Rocky Mountain Vacation Rentals!