| Utah: Deer Valley Resort Dec 12th 2013, 20:30 As a snowboarder, I arrived at Deer Valley—a skiers-only resort—a skeptic. That suspicion began to melt away as soon as I was greeted by the ubiquitous, and very friendly, ski valets. Upon meeting you curbside, they grab your gear and relieve you of all schlepping, which until now, I assumed was an integral part of the family ski vacation. That sense of luxury, which can come only from authentic hospitality, extends throughout the resort. From the complimentary Cadillac service between the condos and lifts to the state-licensed day care center that keeps little non-skiers well taken care of to the complimentary mountain host tours, which give skiers the lay of the land as well as a bit of history about the resort, they've got you covered. Before clicking into your skis, fuel up at the expansive breakfast buffet at the Snow Park lodge, which put my assumptions about rubbery egg sandwiches and oversized M&M cookies as standard lodge fare squarely to rest. Bite by gooey-delicious bite, I polished off a house-made sticky bun from the bakery section as I waited for my made-to-order omelet. When it was time to hit the (beginner) slopes, I couldn't have asked for a better instructor than 23-year Deer Valley veteran, Rex. He maintained that perfect balance of calm assurance of my abilities and good-natured nudging, which allowed me to feel safe but challenged. In addition to the fun and professional ski school, impeccable grooming and stunning views—even from the bunny slopes—ensure we beginners have as much fun as the experts hot-doggin' it down bumps on the mogul trails. We stayed in the Bristlecone condominiums, less than a mile from the base of the mountain and within the Park City transit route, where you can catch a skier shuttle, or one of those complimentary Cadillacs to and from the resort. These townhouses boast an embarrassment of amenities to rejuvenate you after a day of hitting the slopes—a steam shower, overstuffed couches, private outdoor hot tub, and stone fireplace, to name a few. And if leaving these creature comforts for dinner seems like too much, each unit has a fully-equipped, spacious, modern kitchen and dining area. Eager to try the food, I left the comfort of my lodgings for Fireside Dining, where Swiss raclette was the perfect way to warm up: nutty cheese melting onto slices of fresh baguette in an open hearth, with house-made accoutrements like strawberry-tarragon jam, zippy pickled onions, and whole grain mustard. Served in the traditional alpine style, with cured meats and steamed potatoes, raclette is just one of five fireplace cook stations; whole glistening lamb legs turn on a spit in front of the fire, veal stew simmers in a cauldron, and a combination of fondues sit ready for dipping strawberries, cinnamon-spiced pound cake, and airy meringues. Before heading back to your inevitably luxe accommodations, whether a slopeside condominium, a private rental home, or one of the many lodges managed by Deer Valley, ask cowboy Josh for a quick sleigh ride from the Fireside restaurant. Sure, I was sad to leave my snowboard behind, but whether you are an avid skier or just playing ski bunny for a day, there's no better place than Deer Valley to do it in style. —Catherine Smart In the Area: - High West Distillery: A 1914 2-story Victorian home, and an old livery stable (turned car garage) were painstakingly renovated to house Utah's first modern, legal distillery. Also home to a saloon, the space is a beautiful blend of old and new, with cozy spaces, and soaring ceilings. A glass corridor between the buildings reveals a beautiful brass distilling kettle, which turns out some award winning whiskeys, perfect for drinking neat, or mixing into inventive cocktails. The saloon serves up bites like spiced Marcona almonds, bacon bourbon popcorn and local charcuterie, as well as substantial Western style entrée like Idaho Elk with Chantarelle mushrooms, and 20oz. Bison steaks. Round out the meal with one of their dessert pairings, High West Whiskey matched with local artisan chocolates. 703 Park Avenue; 435/649-8300
- Ski & Mountain Bike School: Whether you are an absolute beginner or a seasoned skier, Deer Valley adult ski school has half and full day private lessons, as well as small-group lessons, specialty clinics, and mini-ski camps to help you get the most out of your time on the slopes. In the summer, lifts start spinning to take mountain bikers to the top, where instructors will help you stay safe and learn techniques for a thrilling ride down the mountain. 2250 Deer Valley Drive South; 888/754-8477
- Explore old-town park city: Park city's historic center boasts Western charm from its days as a silver mining town in the late 1880's. Walking the quaint, winding streets you'll find boutiques selling beautifully handcrafted leather bags, cowboy boots and jewelry. More than 20 fine art galleries showcase paintings, sculpture and photography. If you are lucky enough to be visiting on the last Friday of the month, check out the main street gallery stroll from 6-9p.m. Main Street, Park City; www.visitparkcity.com
       |  |
No comments:
Post a Comment