1st Time "Out West" Ski Trip Planning help
May 28th, 2007, 08:58 AM
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1st Time "Out West" Ski Trip Planning help
Hi there .. husband & I (early 40's) have decided we must do a snowboard trip out west for the 1st time. We are both in the intermediate board range (used to skiing in the East, VT, NY, etc). I'm pretty sure CO would be the best choice & am thinking of Vail or perhaps Breckenridge. We'd like to stay in a village sort of an area, where we can walk to slopes, etc & not need to rent a car (fly to Denver & arrange for transportation to a mountain?) I know Vail is expensive, but this may be our 1 big out West trip - so, we'll consider it. Does Breck also have a village near the base? My biggest question - if we want 1st or 2nd wk in Feb '08, is it already too late (wait for '09, we'd be willing to do so if it's worthwhile?) I've done a basic search of lodging on the Vail site & have come up w/a few condo options in Vail village (@ $300/nt). Is condo a good way to go? I've looked at some hotels, inns in Vail village as well but either they're all booked up or not taking reservs that far in advance? Any advice would be appreciated!
May 28th, 2007, 10:48 AM
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Both Vail and Breckenridge are good choices, but be warned that both are very big areas, especially Vail. This means is that your condo may not be within walking distance of the slopes. Be sure and check this out when booking.
Yes, there is excellent transportation form DIA to all mountain resorts.
Yes, there is excellent transportation form DIA to all mountain resorts.
May 28th, 2007, 12:50 PM
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We've stayed in both Vail and Breckenridge, and I prefer the village of Breckenridge, although the variety of terrain at Vail can't be beat.
We've had good luck renting a condo (we get a studio size when it's just the two of us) at www.vrbo.com
Both areas have shuttle service if your condo isn't slopeside.
We've had good luck renting a condo (we get a studio size when it's just the two of us) at www.vrbo.com
Both areas have shuttle service if your condo isn't slopeside.
May 28th, 2007, 01:17 PM
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I'll just add that all the major ski areas in Colorado have good shuttle service to the slopes. I got the impression you wanted to stay where you could easily walk to slopes, restaurants, shops etc. The availability of a shuttle service (if that's an option for you) can open up more opportunities in regard to rentals.
May 29th, 2007, 12:57 PM
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So, we have decided on Breck for sure. Now my only big questions revolve around where to stay; price does come into play but we're willing to pay more for something nice. We'd like to be close to lifts but also be able to walk to town & not rely on the shuttle for dinner, etc. Some places I'm looking at = Great Divide Lodge (this was my 1st choice but now I'm reading it's not so walkable to town?), The Village at Breck Resort, Grand Timber Lodge & Main Street Station (a Hyatt property). Any recs are greatly appreciated! No timeshare presentations wanted!
