Saddleridge

Saddle Ridge gave our group a great experience. The food was good, and the place had that old-school mountain feel. Vail resorts certainly knows how to get value out of a property, which is the one caveat.

The peaceful setting, beautiful townhome, comfortable beds, roomy layout, well-equipped kitchen, and spectacular pool made for a nice weekend. We've been coming to Beaver Creek for almost 25 years, but after this first stay at Saddle Ridge, I wouldn't choose it again. The stairs were the big problem. Getting to the three-story townhome meant climbing a very long flight from the parking area, then carrying groceries and gear up to the kitchen. With mobility issues, that was torture. A few times I stayed in the main bedroom on the first floor instead of joining everyone in the kitchen because I couldn't face the stairs again. The person dealing with chronic illness will need several days to recover from them. Parking was another hassle. Each townhome has a tiny two-car garage, but it couldn't fit our full-size SUV with a rocket box on top or our friend's extended-cab truck, so both vehicles sat outside all weekend. We also got no instructions for wifi, if there was any, or for reaching someone with questions after hours or on the weekend. We eventually found an emergency option by calling the regular number, but most rentals give you this information at check-in or leave it somewhere obvious in a binder. We were comfortable and had a nice weekend, but those issues mean we wouldn't return.

The wine selection is really nice, and there's a sommelier in the restaurant to help pick something you'll like. Dinner was good, though the chef's menu choices felt mediocre and could use a little more work. Still, it's a decent spot.

The staff were excellent and the location is great, though the units feel dated. Avoid the snowmobile shuttle, it left my back hurting so badly I could barely stand and couldn't ski the next day. Use Dial a Ride!