Insider, local knowledge is key if you’re looking to tick off all the must-do activities, see all the highlights and have an authentic experience on your next ski trip. Locals are chock full of ideas and inspiration to make your ski trip unforgettable, so who better to tap for insider guidance, than the locals who work in lodging and hospitality? That’s why we’ve created a new Ski.com Blog series: Concierge Conversations, where you can glean great destination-based tips and recommendations and learn a bit more about some of the area’s top lodging options.
We tapped Director of Sales and Marketing Neil Hastings, who’s been at the Mountain Lodge at Telluride for 13 years, to answer a couple questions about his favorite aspects of where he works and plays.
A few of Neils’s favorite things
Ski.com: What drew you to Telluride originally and what has kept you there?
NH: Mountains; I love mountains, and Telluride, in my humble opinion, is the penultimate mountain community with the grandest of the Colorado Rocky Mountains.
Ski.com: What are your three favorite things to do in Telluride in the winter?
NH: Ski, snowshoe and photography.
Ski.com: In your opinion, what are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about Telluride that visitors should know?
NH: Telluride had the first electric lights in any city in in the world. Nicola Tesla invented AC electric power in Telluride, and Butch Cassidy robbed his first bank in Telluride.
Ski.com: What are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about the Mountain Lodge at Telluride?
NH: First, longevity and professionalism of the management team. There are more than 100 years combined hotel experience among the top hotel executives, some of whom have been at this property in excess of 10 years. Second, our après-ski special—we have the best burger in town and it’s just $5! Third, all units have private balconies and gas fireplaces along with fully equipped kitchens.
Ski.com: If you could only ski or ride one run at Telluride for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
NH: The Plunge. It is steep, exciting and groomed.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for the local’s scoop on après-ski/dining/nightlife what do you recommend and why?
NH: Downtown Telluride is where the action is for dining and nightlife. For après ski, The View at the Mountain Lodge. Located on the mountain, The View is easy to access and is the spot where you can enjoy our famed [aforementioned] burgers. Oh yes, the views are magnificent.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for family experiences what’s your go-to itinerary and don’t-miss spots/restaurants and why?
NH: Brown-Dog Pizza in Tellluride. It’s great for families, a locals’ favorite and the best sports bar in town.
Ski.com: When guests ask you for recommendations for upscale experiences what’s your go-to itinerary and don’t-miss spots/restaurants and why?
NH: Allreds on the mountain; it has the best on-mountain food and overall experience, and great views. The Chop House at the New Sheridan is the best steak house in Telluride.
Ski.com: What winter event or time of ski season do you look forward to most and why?
NH: Spring skiing. The snow is usually the best and days are sunny and warm.
Ski.com: What do you think makes the Mountain Lodge at Telluride popular?
NH: Our ski in ski out location on the mountain is incredibly convenient, and guests love the rustic, Western log-cabin architecture. All of our units are suites, condos or luxury cabins with the service and amenities of a full-service resort property.
Ready to book your stay at the Mountain Lodge at Telluride in Telluride, CO? Our 70 Mountain Travel Experts are standing by for your call at 800-610-8911. You can also get started by filling out a form for a free custom quote.
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