Boulder Resorts:
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Our favorite of the Boulder Resorts, this peaceful hideaway sits atop the Continental Divide near Ward, CO, within a short drive of Rocky Mountain National Park.
We spent two nights at this mountain retreat, staying in one of several private cabins on the grounds. Surrounded by snow-covered pine trees, and arriving on a foggy winter night, we felt an immediate sense of deep quiet.
The frozen lake on the property, the muted silence of the forest--if you're looking for quietude, you will find it here.
The interior of our cabin was cozy and warm, decorated with unique tile, paintings of aspens, and even a large Native American drum for a living room table.We had our own fireplace, and a massive bed with heavy, luxurious quilts and feather pillows.
We were surprised and happy to see a collection of Aveda shampoos as part of a welcoming gift bag, along with samples of other natural skin-care items and other holistic products.
Like many Boulder Resorts, Gold Lake's emphasis on living naturally carried over to their food as well, with a gourmet, organic menu comprised of locally-grown foods.
Our first night happened to be an exceptionally quiet one as we arrived on a Thursday, and most guests show up on Friday. So we were invited to eat in the lodge, and found we were the sole guests.
Our chef was friendly and unobtrusive, only coming out to deliver delicious gourmet meals with quick descriptions of what he'd created.
For dessert, he left us with a plate of cookies and two glasses of amaretto to take with us back to our cabin. Excellent attention to detail with everything here.
Our favorite activity was soaking in the lakeside hot pools.Wrapped in heavy robes, we walked through the snow, changed in the tipis, and dipped into one of several hot pools along the elevated shoreline.
One night we had a snowstorm, which offered a surreal experience between the blowing snow and the steam of the pools. The next night was clear skies, with endless views of the Continental Divide and the stars above. A great way to pass the time.
The staff is very aware of your privacy, and tend to stay away unless you call for them. Our second night we opted to eat-in, and a short while after our call, someone delivered another gourmet meal to our doorstep.
Breakfast is served in the lodge, and was comprised of home-made granola, organic eggs and coffee.
Gold Lake Mountain Resort and Spa is also known for--you guessed it--their spa. We didn't take advantage of the spa on this visit, but we'd love to return and try the Rocky Mountain clay bodywrap, or the stone massage.
One downfall at Gold Lake is that if you get bored quickly, you will be very unhappy. Unlike some Boulder resorts, the activity here is non-activity.
Although you can always jump in your car and drive to nearby Rocky Mountain National Park for hiking or snowshoeing. Bear Lake is a great trail with some breathtaking views.
This resort also offers day retreats, and escape packages. Technically not actually one of the “Boulder Resorts” (because it's located in Ward, Colorado) Gold Lake is only a 25 minute drive from the city of Boulder, and it's a gorgeous drive.
Hope you get a chance to visit soon!
Gold Lake Mountain Resort & Spa
3371 Gold Lake Road
Ward, CO 80481
303-459-3544
www.goldlake.com
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