With the ski season and the school year done, the off-season offers the perfect opportunity to relax before summer begins. The Rockies provide an idyllic setting for such retreats, a chance to get away from the busyness of everyday life. Contrary to what one might think, many ski areas are very active during the warmer months. In fact, you can save a ton of cash in-between seasons because resorts offer great deals as they prep their areas for summer visitors. My friend Sonia recently took a break at Bear Creek Mountain near Avon, Colorado. I’ll let Sonia tell you about her trip.

A stressful week called for an amazing weekend and armed with my book and sunglasses, I was on the hunt for the perfect spot to relax. I found a chaise with an amazing view of the river, so close I could hear the water as it bubbled and rushed past me. This wasn’t any ordinary chaise, however. My chosen spot was made of Colorado boulders.

When I happened upon this unique seat, I was on the picturesque bike and walking path near the Westin Riverfront Resort and Spa at Beaver Creek Mountain, my chosen escape for the weekend. The ‘chaise’ had two side tables, an elevated back and an ottoman. Although a chaise made of stone might sound uncomfortable, I settled down with my book and sunglasses and let the sound of the water lull me into tranquility.

Jogging up and down the path was my exercise for the weekend, since the pool and fitness room at the resort were undergoing a remodel. The staff eventually offered to waive the resort tax as a consolation for being without a hot tub and pool to enjoy on our sunny May weekend. The well-kept paths offered plenty of relaxing spots and boulders for me to sun and enjoy the mountain scenery.

That afternoon, during happy hour at Maya, I enjoyed the brisket nachos and a chat with Damien, the restaurant manager. We tried the tamales, but fell in love with the brisket nachos. The meat was tender and flavorful, lightly drizzled with sour cream and the portion perfect in price and presentation. A glass of house sangria provided a refreshing burst of fruity coolness and the staff was prompt and friendly. When I returned with my friend later, insisting the nachos were a must, the restaurant was packed with locals and service much harder to get; however, the staff was apologetic and accommodating.

A walk through Avon was one of the best free sculpture opportunities I’ve had to date; there were sculptures paying homage to everyone from Native Americans, to working women and the families of our military servicemen. An abundance of restaurants and shops surrounded the resort and the town itself seemed to imbue a peaceful and relaxed way of life post-ski season.
I returned down the mountain renewed of mind and spirit, reminding myself how fortunate I am to live so close to a mountain refuge.

A transplant from the Midwest, Sonia Ayanna Stovall is a contributor to The Denver Post‘s “Idea Log,” an adjunct professor AND a senior examiner for the federal government by day. By night, Sonia is an explorer of all things Colorado who is all about traveling, writing and great food.