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 local lodging concierges? 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 the Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa at Beaver Creek’s Leisure Sales Manager, Leanne Durham, who’s lived in Beaver Creek/Avon for five years, to answer a couple questions about her favorite aspects of her homebase and place of work.
Some of Leanne’s favorite things
Ski.com: What drew you to Beaver Creek originally and what has kept you there?
LD: As the local saying goes, come for a winter and stay for the summer and here I am 5 years later. The unique community feel and stunning mountain backdrops never gets old. I enjoy the outdoor lifestyle and how everyone is always excited to do something outside either winter or summer!
Ski.com: What are your three favorite things to do at Beaver Creek in the winter?
LD: I love to snowshoe, ski and snowmobiling.
Ski.com: In your opinion, what are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about Beaver Creek that visitors should know?
LD: There is always something to do! The town of Avon offers nightlife, as well as day time fun. There are affordable options, too, if you know where to look. Also, everything is in walking distance so you never have to worry about driving or parking fees.
Ski.com: What are some secrets or lesser known facts/attributes about the Westin Riverfront?
LD: We offer an activity every night of the week during winter season ranging from cookie decorating sessions to learning how to make guacamole. We also offer a space to work out like a champion, as we host two Resident Athletes, one is an Olympic Gold Medalist and the other is an Xterra World Champion. Our third secret is we are very environmentally friendly and offer a program to “Make A Green Choice” to skip on housekeeping services on specified days in return for points or food and beverage credits.
Ski.com: If you could only ski or ride one run at Beaver Creek for the rest of your life, what would it be and why?
LD: Larkspur offers a bowl type environment and always hosts the most powder and snow!
Ski.com: When guests ask you for the local’s scoop on après-ski/dining/nightlife what do you recommend and why?
LD: Maya! We know how to après with complimentary hot coco and chocolate chip cookies as well as drink specials, so it’s a win-win for the entire family!
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?
LD: I would start by riding The Westin’s Gondola to Bachelor Gulch and do a few runs to warm up and then make my way over to Arrowhead which always has less traffic and lift lines. I would break at the Broken Arrow and enjoy the Valley’s best Bloody Mary and listen to the live music. After skiing, I would ski down to The Westin’s Gondola and hop off to hand my gear to the ski valet for tomorrow. Once inside the Westin again, I would snuggle up on the lobby’s over-sized couches and enjoy the live music and cocktail specials. I would then make my way down to the infinity hot tubs and relax while my muscles recuperated after a long day of skiing.
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?
LD: I would suggest our award-winning and Chef Richard Sandoval’s signature restaurant, Maya. My best suggestion is to begin with table side guacamole!
Ski.com: What winter event or time of ski season do you look forward to most and why?
LD: I look forward to Birds of Prey ski series, as it’s a chance to watch the professionals rock our Beaver Creek Mountain!
Ski.com: What do you think makes the Westin Riverfront popular?
LD: Our upscale, modern mountain luxury vibe plus the infinity hot tubs overlooking the Eagle River. Plus, we truly have it all! The most central location with everything you need. A shuttle with hourly routes to and from Vail and Beaver Creek Village, as well as an on site Market and Starbucks, full service ski valet, and a Beaver Creek Sports to rent all of your gear! Not to mention live entertainment every night of the week!
Ready to book your stay at the Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek? Our 70+ Mountain Travel Experts are standing by 800-610-8911 to help you get everything sorted.
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