Flying high above the alpine scenery, the Breckenridge Connect Gondola is by far the most elegant way of traveling to and from my accommodations at the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 in Breckenridge, Colorado. Moose graze in the wetlands below and a variety of Colorado wildlife can be seen from this airborne vantage point. Steps from the Lodge or downtown area, the gondola is one of the many luxurious appointments this property has to offer.
Starting at check-in, guests know the hotel will be a different experience. One-on-one service and property familiarization with private concierges starts the stay on the right foot. In lieu of room keys, chipped rubber bracelets are given to guests allowing access to the underground garage, pool area, fitness facility and rooms. The number for the shuttle is also printed on the bracelet, making lost or de-magnetized keys a thing of the past.
Located in the mountain town of Breckenridge, the Grand Lodge on Peak 7 is a unique property as it is both a timeshare and nightly experience in the mountains. The developers spared no expense in the high-end finishes and the views are some of the best in the region. The property offers guests a family-friendly atmosphere, their own chairlift directly onto the mountain and elegant condo accommodations.
The two five-story buildings are home to 114 two-bedroom units that can be reconfigured to studios and one- to four-bedroom units. Large kitchens and living spaces can be found in the suites as well as private balconies to take in the fresh mountain air. The ski-in, ski-out location has direct access to the Independence SuperChair for expedited entry to the slopes.
Another notable aspect to the resort is the waterpark, home to four outdoor hot tubs, one indoor hot tub and an indoor/outdoor swimming pool at the Interior Aquatics Center. Children truly enjoy the splash zone and variety of water fun, while adults can relax in the 21+ hot tub and adult-only grotto located in the spa.
From Vichy shower treatments to facials and massages, Soothe Day Spa incorporates locally-sourced spa products. Somewhat of a spa snob, I thoroughly enjoyed a deep-tissue massage that was the perfect ending to a day of hiking and mountain activities. The co-ed grotto is relaxing and integrates a water-feature soaking pool, stream room and sauna into its space. The modest spa packs a punch with superior service and talented therapists.
Views at the property cannot be overlooked in any area; from the valley to mountainside, there are beautiful vistas all around. A new outdoor grilling area and putt-putt course overlook the valley and Bald Mountain while the slopes on the mountainside are beautiful year round with plenty of hiking and biking trails during the summer and beginner to expert trails for skiing and snowboarding during the winter.
Another unique feature of the Grand Lodge are the private movie theaters which can be enjoyed by reservation. With an expansive movie selection, these cozy theaters are perfect for a romantic evening or a family night with the children. Surround sound, leather couches and a star-filled LED sky made me consider where I might have space at my home to install these ultimate movie-viewing experiences. Dual 11-seat theaters in the South Building were so popular that two additional seven-seat theaters were recently completed in the North building. From Blu-ray to 3D movies, the collection of over 300 titles will be sure to please even the biggest movie aficionados.
Whether enjoying a stroll downtown or taking the gondola ride up the mountain, the grandeur of Peak 7 can be appreciated while on property or from afar. A complimentary Mercedes shuttle is also on-call for guests and a prime option after gondola operating hours. Sevens Restaurant serves lunch and dinner daily, while a small sundries shop has several Colorado-proud products including breakfast burritos. Primed for a luxury vacation, Grand Lodge on Peak 7 is a delightful luxury stay while in Colorado.