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Avalanche Awareness and Prevention

Written on March 23, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge

Snow packed trails are what we live for in Breckenridge, Colorado. When the entire town is blanketed in a glistening white fresh layer of snow, locals and visitors alike grow anxious to get out and leave their prints in the powder. Like any managed ski resort, precautions are taken at Breckenridge to ensure the trails are safe for skiers and boarders. You can hear the loud booming of avalanche blasting, which causes potential avalanche sites to slide under controlled conditions, thus ensuring skiers and riders who stay in bounds are not exposed to areas that are likely to slide.

Backcountry Skiing in Breckenridge

Still, any time you are in the backcountry and out of bounds of the ski resort’s property, avalanches can become a concern. While the weather and wind patterns can cause snow to collapse, the most common type of avalanches are caused by skiers themselves. So, while Breckenridge is certainly the place to come to let your adventuresome side have some fun on the trails, keep safety as your first priority and you’ll be on your way to a fun day in a winter wonderland!

Tune in Early: Check the local information on weather and avalanche danger on the television, radio, by phone, or through the web. Chances are you can get most of the pertinent information you need regarding areas to avoid before you even set out. Obviously, trails in Breckenridge that are labeled with severe avalanche danger will be closed, but take extra precaution on those that are even of little risk. And remember, weather conditions can always change throughout the day, so be sure to keep your eyes and ears out for avalanche information as it becomes available.

Look for Signs: It’s not uncommon for avalanches to occur in the same place twice. If you know that an area was affected by an avalanche, it’s probably a good indication to avoid this spot. Additionally, avoid any areas underneath an avalanche. The condition of the snow is also an important factor. If the snow feels hollow, makes loud or creaking noises, or is thawing at an extreme rate (if you can squeeze water from a snowball), you’re in a potentially dangerous area. Finally, avalanches are more common after a major snowfall. While more snow often makes for better skiing, it also makes for higher risks of avalanches. Pay attention to these signs, get information from employees and other skiers, and plan your day accordingly.

Steer Clear of Slopes Between 30 and 45 degrees: While this is the grade of steepness in which avalanches are most common, they can still occur on more gentle slopes or unstable areas. While skiers should be sure to steer clear of these steep slopes, other precautions should certainly be taken into consideration. Avalanches occur most often on east-facing slopes that are heavily loaded with snow from the wind. Also keep your eyes out for cornices, which are overhanging wave-like formations of snow that could potentially give way and cause snow to pile up.

Equip Yourself: If you plan on traveling out of bounds and in avalanche terrain, it’s a good idea to carry an avalanche beacon. In the event that someone in your party would end up in a potentially dangerous situation, this device will allow others to set their beacons to locate the buried victim’s direction and distance (older models will beep as a rescuer gets closer to the victim). Additionally, for those traveling in extreme conditions in the backcountry, a stout shovel is a good component to pack in the event of retrieving a buried victim in the critical moments just after an avalanche occurs.

If you’re planning to hit the slopes in Breckenridge, avalanche danger certainly isn’t your focus. Experienced crew members are consistently checking conditions of all slopes as they relate to wind, snow fall, and avalanche danger. Still, if you find yourself out of bounds of the resort’s property lines and in the backcountry or feel uneasy with your surroundings, look for signs, stay calm, and avoid potentially dangerous situations.

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Breckenridge Microbrews Make the Trip Complete

Written on March 21, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge, breckenridge dining

Beer drinkers beware! If you’re planning a trip to Colorado, you’re going to have to make time to sample the local brews that are handcrafted in Breckenridge and its surrounding areas. In fact, Summit County, home to Breckenridge and many other popular mountain towns, is proud to brew one of the highest amounts of beer per capita in the U.S. Colorado’s handcrafted ales are such a part of the culture that you’re sure to find a wide selection of microbrews on any tap at any local restaurant. So, be prepared, because you won’t get far without one of the many local beers staring your taste buds right in the mouth!

Breckenridge Brewery was founded by a local Breckenridge ski bum whose dream was to ski all day and drink beer all night (sound familiar?). Colorado hasn’t always had the beer selection that it boasts today, so the founder began brewing his own. Needless to say, his handcrafted flavors were such a hit that the home-based brewery expanded into the original Breckenridge Brewery & Pub, which has now expanded from the mountains of Breckenridge, Colorado all the way to the city streets of Denver and even farther west in Grand Junction. The original brewery is still serving up pints in the historic mountain town of Breckenridge, where locals and visitors alike relax and throw back a few beers amidst the spectacular mountain views.

Breckenridge Condo

The Breckenridge Brewery’s fine-crafted flavors include Agave Wheat, Oatmeal Stout, Avalanche Ale, Trademark Porter, and Vanilla Porter. Additionally, seasonal brews add variety to the lineup with Pandora’s Bock, Summerbright, Autumn Ale, and Christmas Ale. As if this isn’t enough of a selection, the Breckenridge Brewery also serves up the 471 small batch series including the 471 Small Batch IPA and 471-ESB – Extra Special Bitter.

Just down the road in Frisco, Colorado, the Backcountry Brewery is a proud neighbor of the Breckenridge Brewery, sharing its tradition of serving handcrafted ales to locals and visitors who need a reward for the hard work or playtime spent in the mountains. A visit to the Backcountry Brewery is a must if you’re spending time in Summit County as its beer has not only been awarded medals from the Great American Beer Festival, but it’s so select that you can only find this brand in Summit County and a few select liquor stores in Denver and Vail Valley. From thirty years of brewing experience, Backcountry Brewery offers its Telemark IPA (2000 Gold Medal Winner), Peak One Porter, Switchback Amber, Ptarmigan Pilsner (2004 Silver Medal Winner), Wheeler Wheat, in addition to two seasonal brews, Extra Special Bitter, and “Broken Spoke” Saison.

Yet another brewery that you don’t want to miss on your Colorado beer tour is the Dillon Dam Brewery. Another award-winning brewery, the Dillon Dam is also one of the largest brewpubs in the nation (31^st out of 1,000, to be exact). Brewing about 2,000 barrels of beer a year, you are going to be in the company of good beer drinkers when stopping in at the Dam. Dam beers include Dam Lyte, Wildernest Wheat (2002 Bronze Medal, Great American Beer Festival), Hefe Weizen, Paradise Pilsner, Dam Straight Lager (2001 Silver Medal Winner), Extra Pale Ale (2004 Bronze Medal Winner), Sweet George’s Brown (2002 Gold Medal, World Beer Cup), McLuhr’s Irish Stout (2004 Gold Medal, North America Beer Awards), and Yo Han Bock. Named due to its location by the Lake Dillon Dam, visitors can also tour the brewery and even catch live music on specified nights.

Any trip is only complete once you’ve taken advantage of the local specialties. For Breckenridge and its surrounding Summit County mountain towns, the specialty is not only the mountains, but the microbreweries that help you celebrate along the way. So, be sure to fit some time in to relax and enjoy the view with a cold beer in hand. Be warned, however, that the high altitude causes alcohol to take effect much faster than at sea level. So take it easy the first couple to days and leave your car at your Breckenridge condo. There are plenty of bars, restaurants and shops within walking distance.

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A Guide to Breckenridge Out of the Snow

Written on March 19, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, Breckenridge spas, breckenridge dining, breckenridge restaurants

You’ve likely heard that Breckenridge is a town that’s serious about its snow. While this certainly is no rumor, one of the greatest things about Breckenridge is that it’s not just a ski or snowboard town. Not only do you not have to be a skier or boarder, but you don’t even have to like the outdoors to enjoy Breckenridge. In fact, if you’re planning a trip to Breckenridge, you can fill countless days without either setting foot on the mountain or breaking a sweat. So, if boarding or skiing isn’t quite your cup of tea, consider some of the more relaxing ways you can spend your time.

Relax Indoors! While some of your travel companions might want to spend their days buried in Breckenridge’s deep powder, there’s certainly no shame in opting to stay indoors. In fact, Breckenridge is a great town to plan a relaxing getaway. Plenty of lodging options offer Breckenridge condos or other vacation homes that simply entice you to stay indoors. Sleep in, curl up with a book by the fire, or relax in the hot tub. Your options are as endless as they are relaxing.
Hit the Spa. If you do feel the need for a change of scenery from your Breckenridge rental but are still in relaxation mode, you might visit one of the many premier spas in Breckenridge. Choose from specialty facials, massages, body treatments, manicures, pedicures, and alternative forms of therapy. You’ll be in good hands with the spa professionals in Breckenridge who take your need to relax seriously.

Shop ‘till you Drop. Breckenridge’s Main Street is lined with unique boutiques and art galleries. Plus, quaint coffee shops, bakeries, delis, and restaurants make it easy to take a break from shopping for a quick (or extended) break. So, whether you’re shopping for Rocky Mountain souvenirs, art, jewelry, or designer clothes, you won’t have a problem finding what you’re looking for in Breckenridge. And, remember, a free shuttle transports locals and visitors around Breckenridge free of charge. So, let the snow pile on your car and leave the driving to someone else.
Sample the Cuisine. All that shopping and sightseeing is bound to work up your appetite, so delight your tastebuds with some of the best restaurants in Summit County. If you time it right, you can find great happy hour prices at South Ridge Seafood Grille, Bubba Gump’s, Rita’s, or a number of other popular eateries.

Breckenridge Condos and Restaurants

Capture History. If endless days of relaxing sound like they could get old, you might plan a day of exploring Breckenridge’s historic roots. Just off Main Street, the Edwin Carter Museum is located in a historic 1875 building. A Breckenridge pioneer known as a “famous log cabin naturalist,” Carter was concerned about Breckenridge’s mining town influence on the local wildlife. He devoted his life to collecting and documenting this wildlife, which can now be seen at his workshop and home, recently restored for tours. Another museum, the Barney Ford House, will give you a deeper look at the home of a black civil rights pioneer and entrepreneur. An escaped slave, Ford was the first black businessman in Breckenridge when he opened Ford’s Restaurant and Chop House in 1880. His home, like many others in Breckenridge, showcases the amazing architecture that has been rooted in the town’s character and charm since the 1800s.

Depending on the time of year that you plan your visit to Breckenridge, you’ll likely have plenty of other options to choose from. Summertime fills with music festivals and farmers’ markets. The fall brings Breckenridge’s famous Oktoberfest celebration. Look out for concerts and movie premiers in the winter. Spring makes for the perfect time to hunt for wildflowers around town. And, if you’re serious about relaxing, be sure to check into Breckenridge accommodations that will allow you the comfort of a vacation home that maximizes your down time. So, put your feet up, slow down, and maximize your time to unwind in Breckenridge.

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Cutting Vacation Expenses with Creative Planning

Written on March 17, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge

Let’s face it. Vacations can be hard. Even though the whole point of getting away and seeing new sights is to take a break, relax, and have fun, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed just at the thought of planning a vacation. And, perhaps the factor that is more concerning than all others is the cost. Vacations are expensive. So, do we have no choice? Must we either give in blindly, throwing our savings account and hard-earned income to the wind, or do we ask our credit cards to take the hit, only to come back to us down the road as interest and never-ending monthly statements? Or, do we give up entirely and cancel this year’s vacation, crossing our fingers that next year will bring more likelihood that vacation will be possible?

Rather than automatically assuming you can’t afford a vacation, why not just approach it with a different outlook? A trip to Breckenridge, Colorado, can become much more feasible if you just get a little creative.

Eat in. While some people may equate vacations with a chance to eat every meal out, this is not only an expensive choice, but also one that is as boring as it is unhealthy. Vacation actually gives you more time to try that new recipe or get the whole family involved in preparing a five-course meal. Rather than renting a hotel room for a week, choosing a Breckenridge condo or other lodging option will allow your family access to a full kitchen, meaning you can save the money you’d normally spend eating out by staying in and sharing in the fun of creating a culinary masterpiece together. Here’s a site of reviews of Colorado resorts.
Invite friends. Staying in a hotel during your vacation doesn’t give you much space. In fact, hotels can begin to feel so cramped that your family will need to take a vacation from the vacation. A condo, townhome, or vacation home, on the other hand, gives your family the space to enjoy vacation together or at a distance, and even offers extra space for others. If you normally choose hotels because they are cheaper, consider inviting other friends or families to come along and share a condo or townhome. When two families share the bills, your vacation costs will suddenly seem much more feasible.

Breckenridge Condo

Keep the car parked. Breckenridge caters to visitors by providing free transportation to, from, and around the ski area. Rather than spending an entire paycheck fueling up the car for trips through town, rely on Breckenridge’s public transportation to get you where you need to go.
Plan activities ahead. One of the reasons that Breckenridge is such a popular vacation spot is that it offers so many activities for all ages to enjoy. Before you get to town, figure out the costs of those activities and make your choices accordingly. It’s easy to fill the day with activities that don’t cost a cent, regardless of the season. Wildflower hikes are popular spring and summer activities. Similarly, aspen hikes are free and fun in the fall. If skiing is too expensive for a winter activity, try snowshoeing instead as a way to play in the snow without the hefty rental fee and lift ticket price. And, rather than including a lunch out in your daily plans, bring a picnic and enjoy it as a rewarding break from your day’s outing.

Vacations are hard-earned and well-deserved. Don’t slight yourself by canceling plans once you start to crunch numbers. Instead, reconsider your priorities and plan differently. Breckenridge offers a refreshing break that doesn’t have to take a toll on your wallet.

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Alpine Skiing at its Peak in Breckenridge, Colorado

Written on March 13, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Ski Resort, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge

There are certainly many approaches to take when planning a Colorado ski vacation. The obvious place to start is by choosing among the many ski resorts, which can be an overwhelming task to anyone unfamiliar with Colorado. While options are plentiful, however, the choice is clear: Breckenridge is the place to visit for alpine skiers wanting to make the most of their time on, and off, the mountain.

Alpine Skiing

Breckenridge IS Alpine Skiing:

The facts speak for themselves. The four massive and interconnected peaks that are the Breckenridge Ski Resort translate into 2,350 acres of skiable terrain. Not only is this good news for expert alpine skiers, but it’s also good news for skiers of all levels. While Peak 7’s high alpine bowl might be the place to show off your technical edge, there’s ample terrain for beginners as well. And, let’s face it, we were all beginners at one point, so giving the new guys a little space is no sweat, especially in Breckenridge when there’s plenty of terrain to go around. Within Breck’s four peaks, the variety extends to five terrain parks, four half pipes, and 150 acres of expert terrain above the tree line. And, with credit to the Imperial Express Superchair that lifts skiers as high as 12,840 feet, 400 acres that were previously only accessed by hiking are now easily skiable right from the lift.

Making Time for an Improvement Plan:

Even the most expert among us can learn a thing or two with each new ski season. Breckenridge’s Ski School operates under this pretense by offering so much more than just beginner lessons. Whether expert alpine skiers sign up for personal lessons to improve technical skills or beginners enroll in a beginner group class, the Ski and Ride School makes each lesson educational, insightful, and fun. Additionally, specific seminars are offered throughout the season that work directly with individual groups such as women skiers, seniors, and pipe enthusiasts.

Life Off the Mountain:

While the Breckenridge Ski Resort has other Colorado ski resorts beat by a number of obvious factors, the town itself is yet another reason to choose Breck as the premier vacation destination. Averaging 300 inches of snow a year, combined with more than 300 days of annual sunshine, Breckenridge is the place for happy and laid-back thrill seekers. Unlike other Colorado ski towns that offer little in terms of entertainment, Breckenridge takes the cake for showing its visitors a good time. Planned events and festivals are marked on each month of the year’s calendar, ranging from the International Snow Sculpture Competition to a mountain Mardi Gras party. Plus, Breckenridge is a part of Colorado’s historic roots, evident in attractions from the Country Boy Mine to the Gold Pan Saloon. Speaking of saloons, Breckenridge’s Main Street is amply supplied with a variety of bars, restaurants, and shopping as well.

Staying Over Brings Options:

Affluent Colorado towns such as Vail and Aspen hit visitors with a hefty sticker price when it comes to lodging. Breckenridge likes to take a different approach. Breckenridge discount lodging is just as prevalent as its high-end options. With a range of ski-in, ski-out condos, large vacation homes, or other townhomes right off Main Street, there’s something for everyone in Breckenridge.

The bottom line is that if you are an alpine skier and you have yet to speed down any of the 2,340 pristine acres of the Breckenridge Ski Resort, then you’ve certainly been missing out. Don’t let this sad fact go another season. As you plan your next Colorado ski vacation, do yourself a favor and put Breckenridge on the top of your list.

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Breckenridge off the Beaten Path

Written on March 11, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge, breckenridge dining, breckenridge events

It’s a well-known fact that Breckenridge is a town for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The world-class skiing, biking, and hiking provide reason enough to plan a vacation to this Victorian wonderland, nestled right in the heart of the Rocky Mountains. However, there’s a side to Breckenridge that you might not know. On your next trip, you might consider hanging up the skis for a day and checking out some of the opportunities that lie under the radar in Breckenridge.

Let your Artistic Side Show. The Arts District of Breckenridge hosts several workshops throughout the year that are specifically designed to get your creative juices flowing. While it might seem that your busy schedule keeps you from experimenting in creative projects throughout the year, a vacation leaves no better time to let your artistic talents loose. If you’re planning a trip in the winter, you’ll enjoy the holiday-themed workshops that let you create your own Christmas cards or ornaments. Or, you might prefer a lesson that’s relevant any time of the year, such as printmaking, Batik, or Tie-Dying. Workshops are open to all skill level and ages. Similarly, Breckenridge’s “Ready, Paint, Fire” is a local paint-it-yourself pottery shop that is also popular with both locals and visitors. Here you’ll have the chance to paint your own bowls, plates, and mugs, guaranteeing that you’ll take a one-of-a-kind souvenir home as a reminder of your visit.

Power up with a Yoga Class. The Breckenridge Recreation Center, in addition to several spas around town, offers public yoga classes for locals and visitors. Not only can yoga help you unwind those tense muscles, but it will help your mind relax as well. And, since unwinding and relaxing are key components to any vacation, you’re more than covered in Breckenridge. Check Carter Park for class types and times. Drop in students are always welcome.

Breckenridge Lodging Deals

Take an Adventure Far Below. Founded in 1887, the Country Boy Mine is known for the gold and silver it produced during World War I and II. As a way of preserving the past and keeping Breckenridge’s deep mining history alive, the County Boy Mine leads tours that travel more than 1,000 feet into an authentic gold mine. Additionally, you might try your luck panning for gold at the Mine once your tour is over.

Go Backstage. Don’t neglect your cultural side on your next trip to Breckenridge. Instead, reserve an evening for a stop at the Backstage Theatre, where the tradition of award-winning, live theater has been going strong for thirty-five years. The Backstage Theatre hosts a variety of performances, ranging in genres for all ages, but you should reserve seats early as this popular attraction sells out quickly. And, if you prefer to be the center of attention, check out the workshops that the Backstage Theatre hosts.

Appeal to your Culinary Powers. A vacation is never quite complete without a taste of the local cuisine. A wide variety of restaurants line Main Street, allowing you to choose the culinary treat that will delight your taste buds. Better yet, why not take over the role of chef on your own? If you’re visiting Breckenridge in the warmer months, be sure to plan a trip to the Farmers’ Market. Pick up some local food and create your own masterpiece from the comfort of your Breckenridge vacation home.

Breckenridge really is a town for everyone. And, even if hitting the slopes is your first priority, it’s never a bad idea to take a day off. Let your body relax and treat your creative side to a day of fun. Breckenridge is just the place to do it all.

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Combine Romance with Adventure in Breckenridge

Written on March 10, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Arts, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge, breckenridge dining

How do you describe romance? Is it a quiet dinner by candlelight followed by a ride in a horse-drawn carriage? Or, is it a strenuous bike ride that leads to a picnic lunch and a breathtaking view? Regardless of your own personal definition of romance, one thing is certain: the town of Breckenridge is filled with love in the air. And that’s why this Rocky Mountain town is the perfect place to plan a romantic getaway. Need convincing? Here are just a few of the many reasons to celebrate your love in Breckenridge:

Activity for Two. Even if you’re one of those people who prefer individual sports, you’ve got to admit that outdoor activity is more fun with your partner by your side. While the sporting options are endless in Breckenridge, here are just a few of the activities that are ideal for two:

Rent mountain bikes and check out Breckenridge’s forty miles of paved bike trails. Ride to the backdrop of the Ten Mile Range and enjoy a picnic lunch amid an aspen grove.
Join a whitewater rafting group and paddle down the Arkansas River for an unforgettable experience with your loved one.
Strap on snowshoes and make your way through fresh powder. Remember, a walk through the woods is a perfect opportunity to engage in a premier snowball fight.
Check-in with a local fly fishing guide and grab a couple’s lesson in hooking a rainbow trout.
Take a ski or snowboard lesson with your partner and the folks at the Breckenridge Ski and Ride School. Or, if you’re already a pro, challenge your partner to a race down one of Breckenridge’s premier trails.

Activities for two

Twice the Entertainment. After a strenuous day playing on the mountain, you can hang up your boots and trade them in for some comfy walking shoes. Set out for an evening on foot, and be sure to check out some of the locals’ favorite activities:

Grab a pie at Fatty’s Pizzeria, Breckenridge’s oldest pizza joint. Then, head over to the Gold Pan Inn to grab a beer and get a glimpse of what the town must have looked like during its mining heyday.
Hold hands and stroll down Main Street where window shopping is a sport in itself. Treat your sweetie to a fresh baked good or homemade chocolate. If you’ve got a wild hair, you might even take an ice cream cone on a horse-drawn carriage ride around the town.
Head to the Backstage Theatre for local performances that span many genres.
Check Breckenridge’s local events calendar and take advantage of town celebrations such as the Spring Massive, Mardi Gras Celebration, or Oktoberfest. Look out for outdoor concerts in the summer and check out local venues for live acts throughout the year.

Relax in Style. One of the reasons couples flock so readily to Breckenridge is because of its lodging options. Rather than booking the usual hotel room, spice up your romantic getaway with a Breckenridge condo or vacation home. Since you might opt to spend much of your time indoors, consider some of the many benefits condos or townhomes offer:

Get cozy with a bottle of wine in front of your own fireplace in a Breckenridge condo.
Practice your culinary skills by creating your own masterpiece with your partner in your fully-equipped kitchen.
Enjoy more privacy as you soak in the hot tub and avoid the screaming kids at the local hotel.

One thing is certain: Breckenridge is the place for couples to getaway, relax, and enjoy some time alone. While every day with your sweetie might be a good one, exploring Breckenridge as a couple is sure to redefine your relationship.

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Breckenridge Home Rentals: A Christmas Tradition

Written on January 23, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Activities, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge Main Street, Breckenridge condos, breckenridge

Traveling during the holidays is inevitable for many of us. And, with so many families spread out from one end of the country to the other, it often takes a great deal of planning and preparation to get everyone together in one central location. Why not mix it up this year? Rather than travel home for the holidays, why not have the family all meet together in Breckenridge, the one place that really knows the meaning of Christmas spirit.

Home away from home: It’s hard work fitting the whole family comfortably under one roof in any location. Unfortunately, when the family all comes back to its home base, this often means that some members are left sleeping on the couch or settling for that old futon in the basement. There’s never enough room in the bathroom, and privacy is simply nonexistent. But, traveling with the entire family can often bring just as many drawbacks, as hotel rooms provide even less privacy and almost no comfort. Well, Breckenridge just might have the solution to this problem. Breckenridge home rentals offer all of the comforts of home, but with even more benefits. By renting a home, you can select the number of bedrooms to fit your party. And, since these homes are designed for vacationers, extra bathrooms and large living areas are usually standard in the floor plan. Plus, large, fully equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and mountain views are all standard bonus features that make a Christmas in Breckenridge warm and inviting.

Home away from home

Town charm: There is perhaps no place that is more charming during the holidays than Victorian-inspired Main Street in Breckenridge. The whole town comes together for seasonal events that start off with the lighting of the town Christmas tree. A caroling procession begins on Main Street and travels to the Blue River Plaza, where the tree is lit amongst a backdrop of snowcapped mountains. Of course, Santa joins the procession, which is also complimented with storytelling, holiday crafts workshops, and, of course, hot cocoa and cookies.

Unlimited activities: We all know that the very best way to spend the Christmas holiday is surrounded by family and friends. Sometimes, just staying in to play games, catch up, exchange gifts, or retell stories is the perfect way to spend the holiday. However, if your group is looking for some outdoor activity, Breckenridge offers no shortage of opportunities. Do a little sightseeing by taking the family on a dog sledding tour or a snow mobiling adventure. Or, bundle up and go for a snowshoeing hike or cross-country ski through snowy landscapes. Of course, spending a day or two at the Breckenridge Ski Resort is a must. Regardless of the skill level of the members of your family, Breckenridge offers terrain to match any skier or boarder. And, for beginners or those seeking improvement, the Breckenridge Ski and Ride school offers half- and full-day lessons.

Local flavor: Any holiday trip to Breckenridge must be accompanied by a visit to the Breckenridge Brewery for a pint or two of the seasonal Christmas Ale. Colorado is known for its microbrews, and the Breckenridge Brewery is one of the state’s best. After your stop in the brewery, however, why not continue the feast by bundling up and taking the family on a dinner sleigh ride? You’ll climb aboard a majestic sleigh to be transported by beautiful horses through some of the most beautiful mountain landscape in the world. Finally, the horse-drawn carriage ends at a premier Breckenridge restaurant where you’ll be wined and dined.

You’re guaranteed a holiday season like no other in Breckenridge. And, you just never know…Christmas in Breckenridge just might become a holiday tradition.

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Lodging in Breckenridge Completes Perfect Mountain Vacation

Written on January 19, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lake Dillon, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge condos

When it comes to planning a Colorado mountain vacation, location means everything. You want to find the town that offers great skiing, variety in lodging, and a town culture that offers shopping, dining, and nightlife. Still, you want that tucked away mountain charm, but you need to have easy access to the airport or other services close the interstate. Meeting all of these criteria, Breckenridge is Colorado’s premier mountain destination. While Breckenridge’s Main Street is about a ten-minute drive from I-70, you’d never know it. The small, Victorian-inspired town has a remote feel that gives visitors and locals easy access to the Denver International Airport, Grand Junction, or other points in between. And, those points in between are certainly worth exploring.

The Vail Valley: There is no doubt about it: Vail is a beautiful ski town. However, when it comes to choosing the town where you’ll spend the majority of your time, Breckenridge is the obvious choice. First, lodging in Breckenridge beats Vail in terms of price and value. Because Vail tailors to a more upscale clientele, vacationers find that the price tag for accommodations is almost always higher than that in Breck. Plus, Breckenridge is closer to DIA for those travelers relying on flights. However, because Breckenridge is next door to Vail, vacationers can still experience both towns. Stay in Breck and plan in a day trip to Vail to experience the best of both worlds.

Silverthorne/Dillon: Many visitors choose to ski at Breckenridge, but stay in one of Summit County towns right off the interstate. Unfortunately, they do this for the wrong reasons. While Silverthorne and Dillon might be located right off the exit of I-70, the downfalls of this are much greater than the upsides. First, winter traffic is often congested in these towns due to the amount of shopping, dining, and convenience stores that fill the town. But, aside from shopping, these towns lack much of the charm that Breckenridge offers. By taking away Silverthorne’s outlet stores and Dillon’s fast-food restaurants, Breckenridge is able to promote independent shops and restaurants to make it unique and less crowded. Additionally, Breckenridge offers just as many lodging deals as Silverthorne and Dillon, but chances are you’ll find those deals in Breckenridge condos or townhomes rather than Silverthorne and Dillon motels. Of course, you’ll also find the best of both worlds by making Breckenridge your home base. Those who can’t resist a day of outlet shopping will still be in close bargain-hunting proximity.

Keystone: Many skiers love vacationing in Breckenridge because of the Breckenridge Ski Resort. With terrain for all skill levels and extra bonus features such as terrain parks and half pipes, there’s no better mountain to spend your days. Still, many skiers live for the thrill of mountain hopping, and a Breckenridge location makes this easy. Not only is Breck close to the Vail Ski Resort, but it’s even closer to the Keystone Ski Resort. While Keystone has a lot to offer on the slopes, it can’t come close to offering the town amenities and accommodations variety that Breckenridge does. So, while you might head to Keystone for a few runs, Breckenridge offers much more off the slopes.

Breckenridge Ski Resort

Denver: Breckenridge is one of the top ski resorts visited by Denver locals for good reason. Those who have just a day or two to visit know that Breckenridge provides the entire experience. Not only is the skiing world-class, but Main Street provides a perfect mix of dining, shopping, and nightlife for out-of-towners. Plus, lodging in Breckenridge gives visitors both affordability and value.

Sure, you have a lot of options when it comes to choosing the one location that will serve as your mountain vacation home base. However, don’t make it so hard on yourself. Come to the one place where you truly can have it all: Breckenridge.

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Breckenridge Ski In Ski Out for More Reasons than One

Written on January 17, 2010 by Ski Bum in Breckenridge Accommodations, Breckenridge Lodging, Breckenridge condos, Ski, breckenridge

Winter sports enthusiasts love Breckenridge, Colorado, and it’s not all that hard to see why. It’s no secret that the Breckenridge Ski Resort and surrounding Ten Mile Range offer world-class skiing, snow mobiling, and snowshoeing. But, it’s the access that Breckenridge provides that puts it miles above other Colorado ski towns. That’s because Breckenridge ski in ski out condos and townhomes position visitors where the action is: right at the base of the Ski Resort. But just what does a Breckenridge ski in ski out accommodation grant you? Much more than just location.

Breckenridge ski in ski out accomodation

Freedom: Have you ever experienced the feeling of being the very first in line to open the mountain for the day? Imagine the freedom of glancing behind you to notice all the skiers and boarders who will be following your trails down the mountain since you’re positioned as leader of the pack. Fresh powder is a guarantee for that first run of the morning, as only the groomers have made it there before you. A Breckenridge ski in ski out condo makes this possible. By using your own skis as your transportation to the lift line, you not only cut out ski traffic, but you start your day concentrating on the sport you love.

Adventure: Visiting Breckenridge should be focused on the goal of seeking out new adventures and exploring new terrain. Because you’re granted so much more time on the mountain in Breck, your options open up quite a bit. Four peaks make the Breckenridge Ski Resort, and you’ll have time to attack each of them since you’re cutting out travel time to and from the mountain. Plus, Breckenridge’s five terrain parks and two half-pipes certainly are nothing to scoff at. Find the adventure there early before the crowds arrive, and you’re sure to have that half-pipe all to yourself.

Enlightenment: It’s apparent that Breckenridge offers a lot on the slopes. But the excitement doesn’t stop there. Head to town and you’ll quickly find that Breckenridge is a town in constant celebration. Town events fill the calendar. For example, January’s International Snow Sculpture Championship brings worldwide talent to town. Groups of competitors craft massive ice sculptures while the town cheers and anxiously awaits the judge’s results. And, while this championship is more of a spectator sport, Breckenridge hosts plenty of competitions throughout the year that calls for participation from visitors and locals. Check Breck’s entertainment calendar for a list of updated activities and events.

Enthusiasm: There’s a reason visitors come back to Breckenridge year after year. It keeps them young and enthusiastic. Simply put, the athlete inside of you will find that a yearly trip to Breckenridge is a must. That’s because there’s always a new way to push yourself in Breckenridge. Whether it entails a one-on-one session with one of the pros at the Ski and Ride School or a backcountry adventure snowshoe, your body will be pushed to new limits each visit to Breckenridge, and it will not let you down. You’ll be surprised what new landscape and new activity can do for your soul.

Anything is possible in Breckenridge, and a ski in ski out condo puts you right where the adventure begins. Simply head out your front door and you’ll find unlimited terrain and a backcountry playground that invites you to explore for days. Why not give yourself the freedom to seek new adventures and enlighten your soul? Breckenridge ski in ski out accommodations certainly position you to do just that.

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