We test-drove local spas to find the top facilities, treatments and amenities. Our bodies were exfoliated, massaged, hydrated and polished, so that we could bring you our guide to the city’s top spas. It was a tough job, but somebody had to do it.

The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Denver
1111 14th St., Denver, CO 80202
303.389.3000 | fourseasons.com/denver/spa

At more than 9,000-square-feet, The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Denver is one of the largest around. It is also one of the most extensive spas, with 10 treatment rooms including two couples suites; one with an oversized rain shower, and another with a SANIJET Pipeless Spa Bath. Entering the spa removed me from my busy mindset and placed me in a calm, zen-like state. I took the elevator to the spa level and walked past guests enjoying the fitness center and sundeck. The entrance to the spa greeted me with a gorgeous Sierra Gold Peruvian travertine floor and a welcoming staff member. She brought me to the relaxation lounge, and I was impressed by the expansive and soothing whirlpool and steam room area ornamented with aqua, silver and gold glass mosaic tiles. This is the kind of place where just touring the facilities has a calming effect. There are bowls of fresh fruit for the taking, chilled towels for cooling off and fruit-infused ice water available throughout the lounge. With cool tones and natural accents, this lounge relaxed me within minutes, but I enjoyed another 20. I changed into my robe and spent some quiet time in the eucalyptus-scented steam room, then I was led to the Quartz room for my treatment. Each of the 10 treatment rooms is named after a gemstone that can be mined in Colorado. Going along with the gemstone theme, I prepared myself for a 90-minute Balancing Gemstone massage and body treatment. My therapist utilized organic aromas to

take me on a scent journey. A succession of four different herb-infused oils—each with its own ability to calm and rejuvenate—gave me a full-body, energy-balancing massage that naturally oxygenated muscle tissue. One of the scents was earthy and natural; another was lightly floral. I found this to be the most scent-filled treatment that I experienced while testing these spas, and I definitely understand why it’s one of the best that The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Denver offers. Ninety minutes is a beautifully long time for a massage, and I appreciated the warm, scented, fabric mask that was placed over my eyes so I could fully enjoy the treatment. The Balancing Gemstone massage concluded with warmed gemstones being massaged over different parts of my body to soothingly ground me. The scents weren’t too overpowering throughout the treatment, and I left feeling extremely relaxed yet energized. One thing I appreciated about The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel Denver is the extensive amenities that helped me face the real world again after my treatment. In the lounge area, there was everything I needed to get my hair, makeup and clothes back in working order. I appreciated that I was able to leave the spa feeling completely relaxed yet fully presentable.

~ APR

The Spa at The Inverness
200 Inverness Dr. West
Englewood, CO 80112
303.397.7808 | invernessspa.com

While many guests of The Inverness Hotel in Englewood may be there for work-related conferences, we locals know the secret work escape that exists below the bustling hotel lobby. The 4,500-square-foot Spa at The Inverness invites visitors to step out of the business world of the Denver Tech Center and into a calming oasis of rich colors, natural light and ample stonework inspired by the nearby Rocky Mountains. Having experienced a wonderful facial on my last visit (the Seawater Facial), I decided my feet and hands needed a little  pampering this time around with a Spa Deluxe Manicure and Spa Deluxe Pedicure. My therapist, Penny, began by offering me a sniff of six different aromas from which to choose from for my “scent”-sory journey. The Spa recently began working with Denver-based ZENTS and incorporates many of their aromatherapy products into services. Much like the effect that various aromatic teas have on the body, the six aromas all offer a distinct purpose—Earth (strengthening and grounding); Fresh (soothing and cleansing); Mandarin (warming and invigorating); Oolong (balancing and energizing); Sun (comforting and calming) and Ore (euphoric and stimulating). Feeling a little low on energy, I chose the Ore aroma—a lovely blend of clove, bay laurel, orris, violet and jasmine. When you’re busy running around every day (who isn’t?), it’s easy to forget that something as simple as a hot foot soak can be so relaxing. As my weary feet soaked into suppleness, Penny applied an Ore-scented lotion to my arms so that I could breathe in its aroma. Penny also informed me that The Spa at The Inverness is the only spa in South Denver to provide pipeless pedicure foot basins—a system that protects guests from exposure to dangerous black mold and other bacteria that can build up in pedi-basin pipes—a nasty visual, but certainly good information to be aware of. Next, my feet and legs were exfoliated, dried and pampered with lotion and a leg and foot massage. My feet were placed into heated paraffin wax booties which left my skin soft and silky. To finish, my toes were topped with a summery pink shade. While the polish dried, the manicure began with an invigorating exfoliation scrub followed by lotion application and massage—it always amazes me how much tension can build up in one’s hands and Penny wasn’t shy about working out the knots—it felt amazing! Again, my hands relished resting in Paraffin wax mitts before a fingernail polish application of a soft, ballet-slipper pink color. My time at The Spa at The Inverness concluded with 30 wonderfully quiet minutes in the Relaxation Suite with a cup of herbal tea and the sound of a trickling water fountain. Adjacent to the suite is a delightful outdoor patio equipped with a hot tub and stone fireplace—an inviting natural environment for continued peace and relaxation. Additionally guests are welcome to enjoy the spa’s indoor pool, hot tub, steam room and fitness center. Since many of the region’s most popular spas are concentrated downtown, it may be easy to overlook this south Denver resort and the gem of a spa that awaits inside. Don’t make that mistake; book your next spa escape here, and you’ll see why it makes our list of favorites.

~ KNM

The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Denver
1881 Curtis St.
Denver, CO 80202
303.312.3830 | ritzcarlton.com/denver

In a hurried state, I pulled my vehicle up to the Ritz-Carlton, Denver and was swiftly greeted by a pleasant valet attendant. My frenzied approach probably made it quite obvious that I was arriving at the posh downtown hotel for one purpose and one purpose only—a much needed spa visit. Another friendly attendant kindly ushered me into the hotel and up the elevator to the 3rd floor Spa Level, where I would ultimately find my solace. The Ritz-Carlton Spa is indeed a serene environment—a calming 6,800-square-foot escape from the bustling traffic below. Upon checking in for my appointment, which was scheduled to be a 75-minute Mile High Malt Scrub & Microbrew Massage, I informed the staff that I was roughly 12 weeks pregnant, which I assumed might require some slight adjustments in positioning during my treatment. As it turns out, some adjustments were certainly needed and not just slight. My therapist, Jessica, greeted me in the ladies lounge area and explained that the treatment I was originally scheduled for would not be the most ideal for an expecting mother. This was because, unbeknownst to me, the treatment incorporates a beer tasting as well as a hops-infused exfoliating scrub, which will get absorbed into the skin. In light of this, we decided to switch my treatment to a prenatal massage instead. While this last-minute switch-up might have sent some spas scrambling (or left them annoyed), the professional Ritz-Carlton Spa staff’s ability to quickly adjust and easily adapt to my needs was impressive. The prenatal massage began with me lying face down on a pillow with a cut-out area to accommodate a growing belly. Lying on the pillow, enveloped in warmed sheets, was relaxing as the positioning took all pressure off of my lower back. I’ve had prenatal massages in the past and have often left feeling disappointed by the lack of pressure I received during the massage. Knowing that certain precautions must be taken when working on a pregnant woman, I realize that some pressure points need to be avoided, but with knotted shoulders and tightness in my back, I was really hoping Jessica would spare me an overly ginger touch and really work the tension out. I communicated this desire and I am glad that I did. Ratherthan a soft sweeping massage, the treatment turned out to be 80 minutes of heavenly bliss with all the right spots being expertly kneaded and un-knotted.

Following my massage, I spent some gloriously undisturbed time unwinding further in the spa’s relaxation lounge. Curled up on a soft chaise lounge in a comfortable robe, under a cozy chenille blanket, I tuned everything out of my mind except for the trance-like new age music filling the room. Additionally, spa-goers may also choose to relax in the whirlpool or steam room—separate men’s and ladies’ lounges are equipped with both. What a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Next time (most likely six months from now) I’ll plan on making an entire day of it and will be sure to book the Malt Scrub as it is one of the Spa’s signature treatments and sounds truly unique.

~ KNM

The Spa at The Brown Palace
321 17th St., Denver, CO 80202
303.312.8940 | brownpalacespa.com

A national treasure in downtown Denver, The Brown Palace is synonymous with time-honored elegance. On this particular day, I was seeking a unique, historic spa experience, and I knew this was the place to find it. As I walked through the atrium lobby—where The Brown Palace holds their renowned afternoon teas—I saw the 5,200-square-foot, two-story spa entrance to the left. The Spa at The Brown Palace sits in what was formerly the 100-year-old grand fireplace. I felt like royalty as I walked through this original one-story tall mantle made entirely of white onyx. The facility features six massage and skin treatment rooms, including a couples VIP suite, aromatherapy steam rooms, men’s and women’s relaxation areas and a separate hair and nail salon. Don’t expect your typical contemporary spa; The Spa at The Brown Palace is richly decorated with plush furnishings, intricate stonework and gold and burgundy draping. One thing I appreciate is the way the spa has incorporated some of the unusual aspects of the hotel. The hotel’s original artesian well is located 720 feet beneath the lobby floor and still provides its healing water for all the spa treatments, not to mention every faucet in the hotel. The Brown Palace also utilizes the honeybee hives located on their rooftop. The resident beekeeper collects the honey, which The Brown Palace uses at its restaurants and in their specialized spa treatments and products. The honey is delicious to consume, but also has antioxidant properties that hydrate and benefit skin. As I walked through the spa lobby, I admired the best-selling honey lavender soap and glass jars of organic Brown Palace honey available for purchase. I had been told to arrive 20 to 30 minutes early so I could fully enjoy the relaxation lounge and steam room, and I am glad I did! Just relaxing in the lounge was deeply calming. There was soft music playing; healthy snacks and beverages to enjoy; and the steam room was a peaceful refuge from the dry Colorado climate.

In accordance with The Brown Palace’s unique amenities, I was scheduled to experience the Queen Bee Honey Scrub, which involves a full-body scrub with The Spa’s organic honey and house-made brown sugar, then a massage with natural oils. I hadn’t experienced a scrub before, so I was curious about the level of relaxation it would provide compared to a massage. With dim lights and calm music softly playing, it was easy to relax in the elegantly tiled treatment room. The scrub was invigorating and the mixture of honey and brown sugar smelled divine. The therapist didn’t scrub too roughly, and washing it off made my skin feel smooth and rejuvenated. The reatment would not have been complete without the oil application after the scrub. The therapist massaged oils into my skin to hydrate and promote cell renewal. I left feeling nourished, hydrated and as relaxed as I would have felt after a typical massage. My skin retained the oils and I felt significantly softer and smoother long after my time at The Spa at The Brown Palace came to an end. If you want a well-balanced combination of light massage and body scrub, this is it! The Spa at The Brown Palace is a great place to steep your senses in history and relaxation. The Queen Bee Honey Scrub I experienced is a spa favorite. Other treatments that are regularly requested are the Artesian Plunge, Detoxifying Soak and Relaxing Plunge; they utilize the natural spring water drawn from the artesian well. These are specialties and, like most other Brown Palace amenities, you won’t find them anywhere else.

~ APR

The Oxford Club Spa & Salon
1616 17th St., Denver, CO 80202
303.628.5435 | oxfordclubspa.com

If you’re searching for a “boutique” spa experience, look no further than The Oxford Club Spa & Salon, conveniently attached to The Oxford Hotel in downtown Denver. Located steps from Union Station, this historic Victorian building has housed The Oxford Club Spa & Salon for more than 22 years. This was the first spa and salon to open in Denver, so I was curious to see how this was reflected in the décor, treatments and amenities. After my day at The Oxford Club Spa & Salon I was pleased to find that it is neither old-fashioned nor outdated. When I stepped through the doors of the spa, I was greeted by the lovely aroma of scented candles and a friendly staff member who acquainted me with the spa and locker room facilities. The spa is connected to the fitness center, which includes a weight room, cardio area and daily fitness classes. Guests of the spa can enjoy these complimentary amenities, as well as the locker rooms’ steam rooms and post-spa amenities. As light streamed through the windows into the historic brick and wood fitness center, I considered sticking around for a yoga class after my treatment, just to extend my stay. My mood lifted as I entered the spa and salon area. All of their treatment rooms are decorated according to specific moods. There is a treatment room that promotes energy through the wall treatments, candles, artwork and furnishings. There are other treatment rooms that promote other much-needed states of mind, such as peace and inner calm. The lounge area, situated between the spa and salon, offers a quiet place to sip tea and listen to soothing music before or after a treatment. The most-requested signature treatment at The Oxford Club Spa & Salon is the Almond Joy Experience. This is 70 minutes of sweetness and relaxation, so I naturally opted for it. First I was given a full-body coconut scrub, which sloughed off dead skin cells, opened pores and rejuvenated the healthier layers of skin underneath. The scent transported me to a tropical island and I was disappointed to return for my chocolate mousse masque wrap, until the therapist started applying it. Chocolate generates endorphins and draws impurities from skin, and I deeply enjoyed the uplifting yet soothing time I spent quietly wrapped in chocolate and a thermal blanket. After a steamy shower, I returned to my treatment room for the final stage of the Almond Joy Experience. My therapist gave me a warm almond oil massage that nourished my skin and eased any tension I had left in my muscles. I left the room feeling sweetly smooth and rejuvenated, without suffering the normal sugar-overload that a chocolate binge would’ve caused. If you don’t have a sweet tooth, try the Signature Stone Massage Experience or the Signature Luxury Facial; both involve a rose petal bath in one of the gorgeous claw-foot tubs. One thing that is unique to The Oxford Club Spa & Salon is its rich history. Ask a staff member about some of the ghostly” stories that have occurred, and you’ll look at the spa in a whole new light!

~ APR

Mainstreet Massage
If you’re craving a classy spa with a small-town feel, check out Ciao Bella Day Spa. Located in the historic Lilly building in downtown Littleton, they offer a simple menu of classic favorites along with fun wraps and facials like the Ultimate Clarity Facial that takes your skin on a five-step cleansing journey.
ciaobellaspalittleton.com
Live in South Denver? Plan a visit to Copperfalls—a full-service spa and salon located in Castle Rock’s charming downtown district. In addition to offering a nice variety of customized massages, body treatments and salon services utilizing Aveda products, this peaceful spa also offers some fabulous multiple-hour spa packages. For head-to-toe indulgence, try the three-and-a-half hour Balance Package featuring an Elemental Nature Facial, an Elemental Nature Massage, a Foot Relieving Pedicure and spa lunch. Talk about an ideal way to spend a day!
copperfalls.com

New to the Spa
If you haven’t “spa-ed” before, the unexpected things you encounter may become roadblocks to relaxation. Here are some basic guidelines so you’ll know what to expect:
Be on time or early! Spas may have difficulty pushing your appointment back if you’re running late. Most facilities have steam rooms, hydrotherapy tubs and showers available for use before treatments. So make use of the amenities and arrive at a good time.
Turn your cell phones off. Many spas prohibit the use of cell phones in their facilities. Speak quietly and silence your phone so everyone can relax to the fullest.
Speak up about your preferences. Spas should be willing to try to accommodate your request for either a male or female therapist. If you’re sensitive about spa-ing sans clothes, therapists should understand your choice to wear undergarments or a swimsuit, and they’ll do their best to work around it.
Tip 15 to 20 percent. A tip should be left at the reception desk, and they’ll be able to pass it along to your therapist. Many spas only allow cash tips; check before you go.
Leave your pets and valuables at home. Having either at the spa is distracting and risky.

Specialized Service
If massages are your thing, look no further. Both of these businesses specialize in massage services and feature fun and relaxing add-ons.
Located in Lodo, Elixir is a place where you can walk in, day or night, and get the massage fix you’re craving. They offer a variety of memberships because they believe that regular massages greatly enhance the mind, body and spirit. You can add special touches like dry brushing, body scrubs and reflexology. elixirinlodo.com
With a variety of locations around Denver, Massage Envy has a menu of signature massages that never grow old. You can choose add-ons such as aromatherapy and deep muscle therapy. They also offer the membership option, so you can plan regular visits to satisfy your massage addiction. massageenvy.com

Venture Out
Heading out of town? There’s a spa for that! Here are three more never-fail spas not to be missed.
South: The Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Spa at The Broadmoor has 35 treatment rooms, four wet rooms, an indoor pool, outdoor lap pool, whirlpool, salon, aromatherapy room, steam room, fitness center and fireplace lounges. Try their signature Wine Down package, which includes a chardonnay sugar scrub, massage with wine therapy oil, a spa manicure and signature pedicure. broadmoor.com
North: The Spa at St Julien, in Boulder, is a 10,000-square-foot facility that has signature treatments based on Colorado’s native plants and elements. This spa is as pleasing to the eye as it is to the body. The décor is natural and earth-toned, just like the nearby Foothills. Try the Mountain Mojito service. They’ll use fresh mint from St Julien’s garden and organic sugar to give you a full-body scrub, followed by an aromatherapy massage using mint essential oils. Then you can relax in the lounge and enjoy a complimentary mojito. stjulien.com/spa
Foothills: Nestled in a mountain meadow just 45 minutes from Denver, Tallgrass Aveda Spa & Salon has a complete menu of spa services along with a gorgeous indoor/outdoor environment and a commitment to “green” products and services. One of their most popular services is “The Quencher,” which is the perfect blend of hydrating and moisturizing services including an antioxidant facial, mocha body scrub, damage remedy hair and scalp renewal and a paraffin hand dip. tallgrassspa.com

When Susan Schmitz began thinking about a major remodel of her Greenwood Village home, it was what she calls a “pie-in-the-sky” plan. But it wasn’t long before she and her husband Rick committed to turning their decent home into their dream home. “We have our three kids plus 10 others here at any given time,” Susan says. To accommodate that many teenagers, the family needed more space.

The couple knew to get the space they longed for would require a major feat: digging out the basement to create greater ceiling height for the lower level. And they would need a large addition. They turned to architect Michelle Wilson with CLC Residential to develop the design. “Michelle really helped us maintain the integrity of the home’s architecture,” Susan says. As the project grew, the Schmitz’s needed professional advice for maintaining the integrity of the interior as well.

Mary Wright, of Designwright Studios, helped the homeowners develop a cohesive style that would flow from the original parts of the home into the new spaces. “When I met with Susan, she had a three-inch-thick idea binder,” Wright says. In the binder she saw Old World influences, antiques and a flair for rustic, country style. Keeping all of those ideas in mind, Wright devised a plan.

Wooden ceiling beams in the original part of the home were carried through to the new addition. A fresh coat of paint added to the consistency of the home design. The family hired Danny Vuletich—whom they had a longstanding relationship with—to create cabinetry that would match, in style and quality, other pieces of furniture in the home.

Cabinets and granite countertops from the original kitchen were reused in the basement bar area. A huge stone fireplace and wooden accents tie the space to the rest of the design. Comfortable seating and excess space for entertaining was exactly what the family longed for and exactly what they achieved with the remodel. “We’re very relaxed people,” Susan says. “We wanted a comfy, lived-in home.” The finished project is better than they ever imagined it would be.

For more photos of the Schmitz’s home, pick up a copy of Denver Life Magazine at Barnes & Noble, The Tattered Cover or select newsstands around Denver.

Colorado’s mountain towns are popular winter playgrounds for visitors from all over the world, but Denverites know just how fabulous our state’s alpine areas are in the summer too. No matter your objective, you’ll find plenty to explore: a variety of accommodations, dining, outdoor adventures and upbeat festivals. Here’s our list of favorite Colorado towns and events to experience this summer!

Vail/Beaver Creek

While it may face I-70, Vail Valley offers plenty of opportunities to explore off the beaten path. Hike to a waterfall, such as Booth Falls with its 60-foot cascade. For an easier trek with amazing mountain views, take Vail’s Eagle Bahn Gondola up the ski hill; dine at The 10th, Vail’s new fine dining restaurant overlooking the Gore Range; and walk (or bike) down the mountain. Horseback riding and kayaking are also popular summertime activities in Vail Valley.

Stay: Consider overnighting at upscale The Arrabelle at Vail Square, supremely classy Four Seasons Resort Vail or Vail Cascade Resort and Spa. Try the Sonnenalp Resort of Vail, with its European vibe and delicious brunch at their on-site restaurant, Ludwig’s. Not to be overlooked, Vail Mountain Lodge & Spa has The Vitality Center, a spa with medically based guidance, body work and expert programming. For more on accommodations in Vail see Mountain Escapes. If you prefer Beaver Creek, try The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch, a classic favorite with a partnership with Red Sky Golf Club and nightly marshmallow roasting at their fire pit. Another option is The Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek Mountain. They offer on-site bike rentals so you can explore Beaver Creek Village and nearby cities like Avon and Edwards.

Eat: In Vail, “Top Chef” Kelly Liken focuses on farm-fresh produce at her whimsically designed bistro aptly titled restaurant Kelly Liken. (Try the potato-crusted trout.) Bowl a frame and dine at bōl with its modern design and menu featuring shared plates and gourmet pizzas. Other summer-friendly restaurants include Terra Bistro at Vail Mountain Lodge & Spa and Up the Creek on the banks of Gore Creek. In Beaver Creek, do not miss Spago by Wolfgang Puck.

Don’t Miss: If you’re visiting Vail on a Sunday, take time for the bountiful farmers’ market. Vail Valley also embraces the arts with ongoing performances. Check out the offerings from Bravo! Vail Valley Music Festival (June 25 to August 4), Vail International Dance Festival (July 29 to August 11) or the Vail Jazz Festival (June 24 to September 3). Tuesday nights at the Gerald R. Ford Amphitheater feature the Bud Light Hot Summer Nights free concert series (June 12 to August 21). The Beaver Creek Rodeo takes place every Thursday (June 18th to August 20th).

Aspen

This historic mining town may be filled with shops such as Prada, Ralph Lauren and Gucci, but if you’d like to learn more about its early years, peruse the vintage photos at the 120-year-old Hotel Jerome or walk through the abandoned Ashcroft ghost town. For outdoor pursuits, consider joining the legions of locals hiking up the steep Ute Trail or more leisurely Smuggler Trail. Golf at the Aspen Golf Course, hot air balloon through the Rockies or whitewater raft down the Roaring Fork River.

Stay: Located at the base of Aspen Mountain, St. Regis Aspen Resort recently underwent a $40 million renovation, so you can experience the best rooms and facilities. Other DLM favorites include The Gant, with gorgeous luxury condos, full kitchens and summery balconies, and Sky Hotel, with contemporary décor and a stunning pool deck. The Little Nell does not exclude pets. If you’re traveling with your pup, The Little Nell will pamper him or her with food and water bowls, dog beds, dog walkers and sitters, gourmet dog biscuits and a personalized brass ID tag.

Eat: At Justice Snow’s Restaurant & Bar, a new gastro-pub in the historic Wheeler Opera House, you can find one of the best all-natural burgers in town. Their Devilish Eggs are delish too. Evenings bring a clever mixologist to the bar. Other restaurant favorites: Il Mulino and Gisella for upscale Italian; Su Casa for Mexican; and Takah Sushi, Matsuhisa and Kenichi for Japanese delights.

Don’t Miss: Tickets for the coveted Aspen Musical Festival & School performances are well worth it (June 28 to August 19). Concertgoers also flock to the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival (August 31 to September 2), where heavy-hitters like the Zac Brown Band, Black Eyed Peas and Harry Connick Jr. have been known to perform. The Food & Wine Classic (June 15-17) draws people from all over the globe for tastings under festive white tents. Seasonal events at neighboring Snowmass include the weekly Snowmass Rodeo (June 13 to August 15), Chili Pepper & Brew Fest (June 8-9) and the much-anticipated Snowmass Balloon Festival (September 14-16).

Durango

This southwest Colorado town retains its railway roots with its scenic train ride to Silverton. The narrow-gauge train carries passengers behind its steam locomotive for a true Old West experience. Durango is also a great home base for exploring nearby Mesa Verde National Park’s cliff dwellings. Mountain bikers flock to Durango for its hundreds of miles of trails in and around the San Juan National Forest.

Stay: Downtown’s Strater Hotel celebrates its 125th anniversary this year with special celebratory rates; it’s certainly filled with history and charm, not to mention dozens of authentic antiques. General Palmer Hotel is a Victorian style hotel, in downtown historic Durango, with complimentary WiFi, turn-down service and continental breakfast.

Eat: For a casual meal, check out Steamworks Brewing Company, with its filling pub food and great craft beer. The Ore House, just a block from the train depot, features hand-cut steaks, sustainable seafood, organic poultry and homemade desserts.

Don’t Miss: True West Railfest (August 16-19) attracts international train enthusiasts. Fiesta Days (July 21-29) celebrates the region’s Spanish history and cowboy heritage with rodeos and a parade. Music in the Mountains (July 8-29) brings classical music concerts to Durango.

Steamboat Springs

Steamboat Springs bills itself as “Ski Town USA,” but in the summer months “Bike Town USA” is equally appropriate. They have paved paths, lift-served terrain and even a BMX course, all accessible from downtown. Soak sore muscles in Old Town Hot Springs or the more remote Strawberry Park Hot Springs. Downtown’s false-front buildings and the F.M. Light & Sons western wear store, which dates back to 1905, also recall the Old West.

Stay: The full service Sheraton Steamboat Resort is a stone’s throw from the gondola for scenic rides up Mt. Werner. The downtown Hotel Bristol, established in 1948, has a great Western feel with genuine hospitality to match. Sweet Mariposa Lodge Bed and Breakfast has four cozy rooms; get a group of friends or family together and rent out the entire house.

Eat: Esteemed ski jumper Carl Howelsen was the inspiration for Carl’s Tavern, with Colorado beers on tap and a made-from-scratch menu. For breakfast, hit the new Milk Run Donut Café, with such eclectic offerings as maple bacon and Lucky Charms donuts. Bloody Marys at the Paramount Café—with farm-fresh breakfast and lunch menus—is also highly recommended.

Don’t Miss: The most colorful weekend in Steamboat Springs is July 7-8, when the Hot Air Balloon Rodeo comes to town and dozens of pilots rise in the air for a spectacular photo opportunity. It’s also Art in the Park, with more than 140 artists, live entertainment and food booths.

Telluride

Telluride’s downtown is filled with Victorian-era homes, cute boutiques and art galleries. Mountain Village sits at 9,500 feet and provides easy access to the outdoor playground that is Uncompahgre National Forest. The two areas are linked by a free, scenic 13-minute gondola ride. Powered by the wind, the gondola is just one example of Telluride’s green initiatives; look for local growers on menus, green building practices; and recycling receptacles aplenty.

Stay: For a luxury experience, consider the expansive Peaks Resort, with the largest spa in the state. Lumière Telluride has only 29 rooms and offers the personalized service you’d expect from an upscale, intimate boutique property. The New Sheridan Hotel has a marvelous history dating back to 1895. Even if you don’t stay at the New Sheridan, drop in for a drink and check out the restored dark wood bar.

Eat: La Cocina de Luz serves up locally grown Mexican and Southwestern dishes with great patio dining. New restaurants include Flavor Telluride, which focuses on seasonally inspired comfort foods, and The Butcher and Baker Café, with an ever-changing menu of fresh baked goods, sandwiches and salads.

Don’t Miss: Telluride is the quintessential festival mountain town with many annual celebrations that draw huge crowds. Mountain Film (May 25-28) and Telluride Film Festival (August 31 to September 3) are the festivals where movie lovers rub elbows with celebrities and cinematographers. Telluride Bluegrass Festival (June 21-24) is four days of open-air concerts, and there’s also Telluride Blues & Brews (September 14-16). Up for more fests? Consider the Telluride Balloon Festival (June 1-3), Wild West Festival (June 4-9), Telluride Wine Festival (June 27 to July 1), Telluride Yoga Festival (July 12-15) and Telluride Mushroom Festival (August 16-19).

Crested Butte

Crested Butte is the Wildflower Capital of Colorado; especially in July, meadows host a kaleidoscope of colorful petals. The town of Crested Butte is also a designated National Historic District, which has helped maintain the charm of Colorado’s “last great ski town.” With Crested Butte as your home base, Gunnison County provides endless opportunities to mountain bike, fly fish, kayak and river raft.

Stay: Crested Butte’s The Grand Lodge Hotel is the perfect getaway for families, with the best indoor/outdoor pool in the area. The Ruby of Crested Butte, a luxury bed and breakfast, loans cherry-colored cruisers so visitors can cycle around town.

Eat: For upscale French cuisine, book one of two seatings nightly at Soupçon, considered the best restaurant in Crested Butte. Secret Stash serves excellent gourmet pizza. Brick Oven has a great deck and outdoor bar that’s an excellent place to people-watch.

Don’t Miss: The Crested Butte Wildflower Festival (July 9-15) features dozens of hikes to see fields in bloom, plus yoga classes in alpine meadows and photography classes. No need to book a hotel room for Bluegrass in Paradise music festival (July 14-15), as campers can pitch a tent just five minutes from the concert venue, with free transportation back and forth.

Breckenridge

The largest gold nugget ever found in Colorado was uncovered in Breckenridge, weighing in at 13.5 lbs! Learn more at the Breckenridge Welcome Center, where exhibits trace the town’s history from gold-mining to the world-class ski resort it is today. Mountain biking is the sport of choice in Breck, but boating on Lake Dillon, golfing on the world’s only Jack Nicklaus-designed 27-hole municipal golf course and fly-fishing on the Blue River are other popular pursuits.

Stay: One Ski Hill Place is great for families because of its multi-bedroom condos and Peak 8 Summer Fun Park, with an alpine slide, mini golf and bungee. Or you can eat, shop and play on downtown’s Main Street, then walk home to a quiet bed and breakfast, such as Abbett Placer Inn.

Eat: Relish is renowned for its innovative twists on Colorado favorites. Giampietro Pasta & Pizzeria is teeny tiny—and no reservations are taken—but if you can stand the wait, you’ll be rewarded with some of the best Italian dishes around. Warming Hut is housed in a historic cottage on Main Street. It’s totally renovated for welcoming guests with its “heart and soul food” sourced from Colorado meats, produce and dairy.

Don’t Miss: Breck Bike Week (July 5-8) introduces visitors to the trails. Celebrate all things cycling with group rides, bike-in movie nights, trail building, kids’ races and festive daily Tour de France viewing parties. Labor Day Weekend (September 1-3) hosts the Great Divide Art Festival, Breckenridge Wine Festival and huge downtown sidewalk sales.

Standing at the base of Beaver Creek Resort, with just one obstacle left to complete my first Tough Mudder event, my stomach turned. At that point, my quads had been cramping for over an hour and I’d been frozen, bloodied and almost left for dead multiple times. However, there I was, just 50 yards away from the finish line.

I never agreed to compete in this 10-mile obstacle course. My brother, Scott, and a group of friends signed up and jokingly I threw my hat in the ring thinking (hoping) they’d forget that I joined. They didn’t. So, when it was time for the race to start, I stood in line with the group, getting marked with my race number across my forehead in Sharpie. “That way we know who you are if you pass out,” my inscriber said in response to the puzzled, perhaps scared, lookon my face.

Few others seemed confused. The crowd was festive and many of them were in costume. I began to think, “Hey, if a guy in a full gorilla suit can do this…I must be ready.” My confidence grew stronger, despite the fact that Scott had worked out with It Burns Joe Fitness (see sidebar below) at Red Rocks for three hours at a time, three times a week. I had managed to find my way to the gym only sparingly in the months leading up to the race.

That foolish confidence didn’t last long. After a downhill, adrenaline-filled sprint, we were immediately pointed straight up the mountain. It would be well after my legs slowed down and my lungs sped up that I saw the backs of my teammates again. During the first five miles we bled as we crawled over rocks and under barbed wire; we pulled ourselves through tubes I wouldn’t have ventured into as a kid half my size; and we clawed and crawled our way over a series of 12-foot-high walls. None of that prepared us for the water we soon faced.

At 36 degrees, the two water obstacles roughly marked the course’s halfway point. The first pond was filled with submersed boulders. One rock split the knee of a teammate straight to the cap, relieving him of the rest of the race. I can’t say that I was envious, but then again, we all knew he’d be warm, dry and relaxing in our room at the Westin Riverfront before the rest of us got off the mountain.

Scott and the rest of our team, on the other hand, were soon all smiles. We plunged through arctic waters, dissolving all feeling in my extremities and, for the first time that day, introducing the fear of leg cramps. And yet, there was our team, hollering and bouncing to the next obstacle. The first smile crossed my face since we left the base.

After crossing the river via a suspended cargo net, we trudged uphill. The course planners had filled this second uphill run with snow, fire hoses and, of course, more mud. At the top, my quads clocked out. I ungracefully limped, hobbled and walked down the path as I struggled to reach the next obstacle.

Yet, I still couldn’t stop smiling. As the rest of the team landed on their bellies and butts as they raced down a giant, freezing Slip n’ Slide, it hit me that this felt like a dream. As a kid, I dreamt of playing in the mud every time it rained. The hill in front of our house ensured I would ruin my clothes and possibly get hurt. Realizing a younger me would have been satisfied with my decision to run the Tough Mudder was enough for me to forget the pain in my legs as we covered the last few miles.

Of course, my upturned stomach and I still had that last obstacle to deal with. Our team reached a field of live electric wires. Inside the modest 15-yard-long frame in front of us were hundreds of low-hanging, live wires; some with a 10,000-volt shock. So, in an act of final, total commitment with my teammates, we locked arms, ensuring each of us felt the sting of every wire we touched.

We didn’t make it through gracefully. The wires knocked some of us to our knees; others couldn’t see our knees when the snap of the current shut our eyelids and we relied on our muscle memory to move us forward.

Looking back on it, it seems as childish and foolish as it did before; maybe even more so. And that is the exact reason why I would do it again.

GET READY

Tough Mudder | June 9-10, 2012
It will take roughly three hours to cover the 10-plus miles and 4,250 feet in elevation change, but the type of childlike euphoria you’ve long forgotten will last much, much longer. toughmudder.com

Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa at Beaver Creek Mountain
When walking through the lobby of the Westin Riverfront after completing the Tough Mudder, don’t be surprised to get a high-five and a smile from everyone inside. It’s the kind of place that appreciates life. westinriverfrontbeavercreek.com

It Burns Joe Fitness
The best workout in Denver happens every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday at Red Rocks, and it’s free. It Burns Joe Fitness will put you through three hours of intense, rewarding training each day, making the Tough Mudder just another jog in the hills. itburnsjoefitness.com

TIPS FOR TRAINING

Getting Tougher… By Scott Kerkmans

How the hardest workout in Colorado will change your life.

With the Annual Tough Mudder event coming up this June in Beaver Creek and the above article that has probably gotten you excited for (and afraid of) that same event, we decided you probably needed to have a good starting point for all of that running, jumping and electroshock therapy you have committed to being in. Either that or you just want to start getting in shape this summer and know that you need some motivation.

Enter Joe Hendricks and his It-Burns-Joe-Fitness (IBJF) bootcamp. I already know what you are thinking. Not another bootcamp, I already have a gym membership I don’t use enough, do I really have to pay more for someone to make me feel bad for not working out hard enough? Alright, maybe it wasn’t exactly that, but it was probably close right? Luckily for Denverites, there are a couple things wrong with thinking like that about the IBJF workout. First and foremost, it’s free. Thats right, it doesn’t cost anything to show up three or four times a week to get in shape. Perhaps more importantly though, is that Joe doesn’t make you feel bad if you’re a bit (ok a lot) behind some of the hard core IBJFers that come to his workout.  In fact, one of the most common things I hear when I am there is to “go at your own pace and do what you can”.

So, now that I have you thinking it is going to be relatively easy to get into shape this summer, let me bring you back down to reality. The workout is three hours long with hardly any breaks. While that can seem daunting to first timers, if you make it a handful of times, it turns out you’ll be hooked. I have been making two sessions per week for more than a year now and I am no longer scared of the three-hour workouts, the soreness in my legs the next day, the fact that I am not in the best shape of everyone there or even the crazy pace that Joe can keep us at. No, the only thing I am in awe of is the fact that there aren’t more people each week (IBJF averages around 100 people per workout) and that Joe has only missed three days in the last five years due to injury.

I sat down with Joe recently to talk about the workout and what you can do to get going this summer and finally work off all that late night wine and feel better than you ever have in just 3-12 hours a week.

DLM: How did you get started with leading this bootcamp?

IBJF: I started eight years ago on my own. Then about six years ago some friends joined me at Red Rocks and for the last four it has been in the format it is in now.

DLM: Would you recommend people coming right away to your workout or building up to it? After all, not everyone is at your level.

IBJF: Come right away. Everyone in the workout is at a different level, so you really can set your own pace. I just try to keep you motivated to do what you can.

DLM: How do you stay motivated and how does the crowd stay motivated for a full three hours?

IBJF: I’m just excited about working out. Getting that many people together is also extremely motivating in itself. I do what I can to help get them excited, but anyone who commits to coming is usually pretty glad to be there.

DLM:  How do you respond to people being intimidated the first time they come to one of your workouts?

IBJF: People usually hear about us through friends, so they often hear that it made someone sore. But being sore is a good thing. Plus, so many of our workouts are accessible. We have lots of activities that every single person (regardless of age or weight)can do. The hardest thing we do is crawling backward up the bleachers from the stage to the top (at Red Rocks Amphitheater) but a lot of the time we are focusing on plyometrics on the stage or even abs.

DLM: How many people come back for a second workout?

IBJF: Only about one out of 20 first timers come back week after week. We have anywhere from 50 to 200 people at each workout and most of them have been there before. Once you come a few times, I have found that you get addicted.

DLM: What is the hardest part of the workout for you?

IBJF: Corralling 200 people can be tough, but if you are talking about an individual move then it changes every week. I spend a lot of my free time creating new moves and perfecting them. It is tough to get me sore, so I do what I can to change that.

DLM: For someone just starting out, what core areas do you recommend they focus on?

IBJF: Cardio is #1 for your health in general in my opinion. Another big focus for us is core strength and flexibility. All of that is more important that huge muscles. Plus in every single IBJF workout we get around to every major muscle group. There are plenty of people that don’t go to the gym at all and just come to IBJF because it works all of their muscles.

DLM: Any last tips for people hoping to get in shape for the Tough Mudder or just in general?

IBJF: Just get started. Get over your nervousness and show up for a bootcamp and you’ll get in shape.

What You’ll Need to Know Before You Go

• Check out the current schedule for the week (as it randomly changes) at http://www.itburnsjoefitness.com/
• Barring any changes, the workout is generally every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8:30 to 11 a.m.
• There is also a Wednesday night workout at 6 to 9 p.m.
• Right now, Saturday and Sunday are free and start at the Red Rocks Amphitheater Stage.
• Wednesday night is at Club Form Fitness (Downtown Denver on Larimer and 17th) and there is a $5 drop-in fee if you aren’t a club member. As the days grow longer however, Wednesday night workouts will move to Red Rocks as well. At that time you’ll need to bring a headlamp as well so you can see for the last 30 minutes.
• Even though the workout is free thanks to IBJF sponsor Complete Nutrition, it never hurts to bring a couple bucks every once in a while to donate to the resistance band fund. Resistance bands are provided, and they break randomly, so please feel free to help out.
• Joe just added a regular two-hour Monday night workout starting at 6 p.m. at Red Rocks. Were not sure this is much easier as it is a bit more intense, but it is a lot of fun. Check out his facebook page for more info on this workout.  www.facebook.com/ItBurnsJoeFitness

What You Need to Bring

• Bring a yoga mat or a gardening knee pad to do abs on.
• You’ll also want a full gallon of water and a light snack, three hours is a long time.
• Just as importantly, bring some simple workout gloves. Cutoff fingers and some padding (like weightlifting gloves) are the best as you’ll be doing plenty of pushups.
• Don’t forget decent shoes. There is also plenty of jogging.
• Lastly, bring your desire and drive, you’ll need it when you are 2.5 hours in.

“Your wish is my command” should be the motto of Solaris Residences, the newest high-end getaway in Vail Village. Since opening in 2011, Solaris has quickly set a new standard in all things luxury. Providing a one-stop spot for Vail Village, it houses 79 residences available for nightly rental or whole ownership. Whether you prefer a two-bedroom residence for a couple’s getaway or a four-bedroom pad for a family reunion, you will not be disappointed by the spacious accommodations and ability to entertain.

As you enter Vail Village, you can’t miss Solaris. Its beautiful wood and stone exterior has created a new focal point and town center. With gorgeous balconies and heated stone patios overlooking the mountains, nothing is obstructed from your view.

Solaris covers all its bases in each residence. For the techie, there are Wii consoles, iPod docking stations and high definition flat screen TVs; for the foodie, a gourmet kitchen and climate-controlled wine storage; and for the romantic, a stone fireplace, floor-to-ceiling mountain views and luxury bed linens and towels. Residences that are available for nightly rental have been furnished and decorated by Room & Board, creating a perfect mix of contemporary and comfort.

With the state-of-the-art home automation control system in each residence, you can look up the weather, check nearby road conditions or see what’s happening on Vail Mountain’s peaks by camera. Kids (and adults) can’t resist spying on the comings and goings of skiers and travelers through the video cameras Solaris has access to.

Guests can enjoy Solaris’s private spa, heated indoor pool and hot tub, state-of-the-art fitness center and complimentary valet parking. You may find yourself adding a couple days to your trip once you visit the Shops at Solaris, located directly beneath the residences. At Cinébistro, Vail’s only movie theater, you can take the dinner-and-a-movie date literally with their dining and cocktail service. Relax with a coffee and gourmet pastry at Yeti’s Grind or—if you visit during the winter months—skate on Solaris’s 6,000-square-foot ice rink.

If you’re looking for a casual-chic dinner option, head to bōl, a full-service restaurant and bowling alley. The modern menu and extensive bar selections have something for everyone. On any given night you will see an array of people,from families to night-on-the-town singles, enjoying the alley. With plush seating, personal servers and hand sanitizer at every lane, even the most germaphobic person can relax and have fun at bōl.

Other shops in the Solaris property include The North Face, Betteridge Jewelers, Fly Fishing Outfitters, Luca Bruno and Carrie Fell Gallery.

Not to be overlooked: Matsuhisa inhabits the center property at The Shops at Solaris. Accessible from the lobby of Solaris, this is one of three Matsuhisa’s in the U.S. Renowned chef, Nobu Matsuhisa, created the entire menu, and the black cod with miso and beef new style sashimi must be included on your to-do list.

After exploring The Shops at Solaris, relaxing in your luxe residence and enjoying the spa and fitness amenities, you’ll know that Solaris is an all-encompassing experience. The summer months in Vail involve incredible hiking, biking, rafting, fishing and more. (See our feature story: Get Out Colorado) You’ll inevitably want to come back during the winter months. In that case, Solaris has complimentary ski valet service, which provides slope-side pickup and drop-off in their resident Cadillacs. They also have fully stocked private ski lockers at the base of the Vista Bahn gondola. The facility has complimentary snacks, granola bars, Arbonne bath supplies and latte machines.

While all these services and amenities fulfill many desires of guests and residents, what sets Solaris apart is their element of personal assistants. From making dinner reservations to stocking the refrigerator, they are available to take care of anything a guest needs. Bill Marshall, the general manager of Solaris Residences, says it best: “Whatever a guest may wish for, our personal assistants are here to make those wishes come true. If a guest would like their children to see Santa’s reindeer,our personal assistants will find a way to bring reindeer to Solaris. If a mother would like her daughter to have an ice skating lesson with a princess, we will make it happen. Our personal assistants are here to create memories for our guests that will last a lifetime.”

Whether you fall in love with the food, the service or amenities, one thing is for certain: As the sun sets over Solaris’s beautiful property, you will get the feeling that wishes really do  come true.

Solace at the Solaris
The private Spa at Solaris includes three spacious and inviting treatment rooms. Each room offers a soaking tub, shower and couch to encourage ease and relaxation. The Spa at Solaris features Swedish Massages and Deep Tissues Massages with your choice of 50, 75 or 100-minute sessions. Solaris partners with the Vail Vitality Center to provide a full spa menu including facials and body scrubs. If you want one of these treatments, you will be chauffeured to the Vail Vitality Center in the complimentary Solaris shuttle. If you prefer a private massage in your residence, your Solaris personal assistant will schedule a massage therapist to accommodate your request.

Solaris Residences
141 E. Meadow Dr., Vail, CO 81657
970.479.7132 | solarisvail.com

When I visited Bittersweet, heavy snow still filled the planter boxes that brim with garden-to-table ingredients in the summer. The patio was barren. Still I hoped that Chef Olav Peterson would help me forget about winter. Inside, the restaurant’s simple design revealed Peterson’s days as an apprentice in Scandinavia. From my experience, simple décor means the chef has an eye for detail.

The menu was as simple as the decorating. Instead of pages of items and a lengthy drink list, the choices were manageable. A housemade seasonal cocktail called a Conley—grapefruit-infused vodka with St. Germain, grapefruit juice and Himalayan pink salt—won the night’s award for beauty and taste.

For starters, I hoped for an infamous bowl of the clam chowder that has caused many food writers to melt on the spot. Sadly, it wasn’t on the menu that night. The Gravlox was, however, and it was a favorite among the group, with dill-cured arctic char, pickled cucumber, fresh apple salad, cream cheese mousse, cured yolk caper berries and bagel chips. A roasted venison carpaccio with beets, smoked blue cheese and black pepper vinaigrette was another perfect winter first course. The third appetizer, basil gnocchi with tomato sauce from last summer’s garden (sigh) was filling and rich.

For the main course, the top entrée was duck. My dining partners have family from Germany, and this dish spoke their language. The duck came with a sweet potato knöpfle—literal translation: a button späetzle—with braised greens, Satsuma oranges and blood orange gastrique. Chef Olav’s rearranged Duck ala orange was flawless and tender. Another notable entrée was grouper with caramelized cipollini and smoked mussel sauce with a cauliflower salad. The warm pool of mussel sauce gave the dish just a hint of smolder.

We finished off the meal with a pumpkin spice cake and an apple tart. Both were simply prepared and a perfect finish. After this great meal, I look forward to sitting on the Bittersweet patio this summer and watching the lettuce grow.

Bittersweet
500 E. Alameda Ave. |Denver, CO 80209
303.942.0320 | bittersweetdenver.com

When I first heard about the bincho charcoal at Charcoal, I was intrigued. In another lifetime, I frequented yakitori bars in Osaka, Japan that used the prized charcoal, called Binchotan, which burns clean and hot. This method sears the food quickly, caramelizes the sugar and gives the food a thick, crusty layer. I looked forward to seeing how a Swedish chef, Patrik Landberg, uses this ancient Japanese cooking method.

At the bar, I tried the sourdough onion rings with Dijon horseradish aioli. The onions were soft and sweet, and the batter was tart; almost lemony. I loved them.

At the table, we sat next to the kitchen, which gave us a view of the activity. I asked our server to explain the cooking method and he included the words prehistoric and petrified wood. I hoped the food wouldn’t get lost in translation.

The starter: bacon-wrapped dates with concord grape sauce was a nice change from harissa sauces that other menus feature. The Aquavit gravlox with dill sauce and greens was beautifully prepared. Grilled bread smeared with Greek feta mousse, served from a tiny jar, was salty and light. So far, no language barriers.

Our group opted for entrees that showcased the bincho charcoal, like the New York strip steak with roasted fingerlings, greens and a black trumpet demi-glace. The bincho grilling was showcased through a thicker sear and a layer of caramelized protein. With such a thick sear, someone commented, a little more sauce might help.

A grilled Berkshire pork loin came with well-partnered sides—bacon-date biscuit, apple, Swiss chard and pearl onion jus. A grilled Colorado lamb T-bone was thickly cut, bedded on a layer of Italian-inspired ingredients, cannellini beans and Tuscan kale. Bello.

The grilled Alamosa-striped bass had a crusty exterior, but the fish was moist and sweet. Under the fish was a sweet potato tortilla española, a thick slab of a Spanish favorite, surrounded by manila clams. It worked, but the garnish—grilled Serrano ham with American sturgeon caviar—didn’t add much to the dish.

For dessert, the group shared lingonberry cheesecake and elderflower semifreddo, which were nicely presented and prepared.

The service involved a few rough moments, especially when we were given only one drink and wine menu for six people. We fumbled as we shared the single page, until someone brought us one more. Despite a few small hiccups, I think Charcoal is on its way to making a mark in the Golden Triangle neighborhood.

Charcoal Restaurant
43 W. Ninth Ave. | Denver, CO 80204
303.454.0000 | charcoaldining.com

If you think summer beer is just for Rockies games and backyard barbeques, think again. Craft beer pairing has reached new gastronomic heights. “I used to think of beer as something I drank after mowing the lawn,” says Executive Sous Chef Todd Bemis, at Vail Cascade Resort. An unlikely source changed his mind about craft beer and food pairing. Laura Lodge, a back-of-the-house staffer at Vail Cascade Resort who is closely involved with the Big Beers, Belgians and Barley Wine festival in Vail (January 10-13, 2013), convinced Chef Bemis that beer was more than a backyard beverage. They, along with Steven Belie, chef de cuisine, matched beer wits and food palates, and created a monthly Creative Cuisine series of food and beer tastings.

The elegant pairings will surprise even the most ardent beer drinker. For instance, Mama’s Little Yellow Pils from Oskar Blues paired magically well with Albacore Tuna Tataki with lemon ginger pearls, sea beans and watermelon radish. Dale’s Pale Ale’s malty and honey goodness was a good fit for a goat cheese tamale and mango orchid salsa. Fish baked in parchment with chimichurri was a great pairing for Deviant Ale, a limited-release ale. And Bemis revealed his Southern upbringing with chicken and sweet potato waffles with a black garlic sauce. Oskar Blues Brewmaster, Dave Chichura, served Old Chub Scotch Ale with the ubiquitous Southern dish to bring out the maple and smoked flavors in the ale and the food.

I was prepared for savory food and beer, so when Lodge presented the beer and dessert menu, I did a double take. I was more than pleasantly surprised to taste how well beer paired with sweets. For instance, the shale-like sugar on crème-brûlée was made for New Belgium’s caramel 1554. The champagne-like Belgian Trippel married well to a white chocolate cheesecake with toasted coconut and raspberry coulis.

Through the end of the year, participants can meet, drink and eat with brewmasters from nano-breweries like Bonfire Brewing and Crazy Mountain Brewing Co. (in June) to big name craft brewers like Avery Brewing Co. and Odell Brewing Co. (in August and September). Go to vailcascade.com for information.

Once you’ve grown past the handmade Mother’s Day card, make Mom smile on her special day with an Italian Prosecco. This sometimes-underrated bubbly is a great sparking wine for summer dinners and special occasions. Denver-based wine expert, Benjamin Weinberg, aka Chief Wine Sherpa, recommends Zardetto, Bellenda and Adriano Adami. For the best quality Prosecco, his advice is to stick with brands that are monitored by Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG), which is a measure of control that guarantees the wine’s region of origin.

If your Mom prefers cocktails, try an authentic Peach Bellini. Show her that not just any cocktail mixer will suffice on Mother’s Day with Peach Bellini cocktail mixer by Powell & Mahoney Ltd. Real peaches and cane sugar (no high-fructose corn syrup) will make Mom feel as if she is sitting at Harry’s Bar in Venice, where the Bellini was made famous in 1948 and named after the 15th century painter, Giovanni Bellini.

While you could use any sparkling wine for a Bellini, I recommend sticking to the tried and true Prosecco. Weinberg’s Prosecco recommendations don’t need Bellini embellishments, so use your judgment as to what makes Mom most happy. For more on Weinberg’s wine travels and musings, go to Wine On The Road at wineontheroad.com

The loss of a daughter, Dani Stell, to Ewing Sarcoma was the driving force behind Michelle Ashby’s decision to create Dani’s Foundation, a non-profit organization that aids survivors and the families of those who are affected by childhood cancer, especially Ewing Sarcoma.

“I knew this was my mission in life,” says Ashby, founder of Dani’s Foundation. “We were picked for a reason.” Dani’s Foundation celebrates the spirit of her beloved daughter. Stell was diagnosed with Ewing Sarcoma after a lump was found in her waist. After five misdiagnoses within six months, Stell was prescribed brutal chemotherapy but eventually lost her battle in April 1999.

Dani’s Foundation links survivors with communities and resources that will help them gain scholarships, grants, financial aid, patient services and current information on cancer research. Martha Simmons, the executive director of Dani’s Foundation, and Ashby have helped survivors worldwide, as they operate 365 days a year to raise funds and provide hope for those who have childhood cancer.

“Before Dani’s Foundation, our only source for support was our doctor,” says Ashby. “Most people won’t see this type of cancer in a year or even 30 years of practice. We are now one of the places where people find resources.”

Through the foundation’s Sarcoma Patient Registry, people around the world can connect with the most up-to-date clinical trials and cancer findings. The registry is a place to store, interpret and analyze data on those who have been affected by pediatric sarcomas, and it provides a list of patients around the nation who have gone through it.

Dani’s Foundation has 150 volunteers in the Colorado region and 300 members worldwide. Patient testimonies from across the United States and as far as Milan, Italy, testify that Dani’s Foundation is their source for community and assistance, such as financial aid to pay for treatments and living expenses.

“Something had to happen for the cancer to be discovered. But Dani had a lump that was undetected, and we all thought it was growing pains,” says Ashby. The Ewing Sarcoma that caused Stell’s death went undetected and metastasized to her brain with malignancy beyond the control any treatment could curb.

“The Ewing Sarcoma protocol for Dani was the same for children 20 years ago. The children now have the same treatment as Dani,” says Ashby. Having to witness her own daughter deteriorate drives Ashby to work for a softer protocol with less side effects. “Long term effects for these kids to survive are severe, including infertility, and at times losing some brain function,” says Ashby.

Currently, Dr. Jeffrey Toretsky, at the Lombardi Comprehensive Cancer Center at Georgetown University, is the spearhead researcher for Dani’s Foundation. He is working on a compound that will work on the molecular level. This treatment will be more intense at a localized cellular level with possibly no side effects.

Having the goal to cure a disease is a worthy and noble gesture, and with such a prolific team as Ashby and Simmons, it comes with style. Annually, Dani’s Foundation holds the Mad Hatter’s Ball, which is an Alice in Wonderland themed festive costume event with dancing and hat competitions benefiting pediatric sarcoma research.

“Besides the Mad Hatter’s Ball, we are most proud of our Community Education Breakfast. It is a breakfast where we have the opportunity to have our story told by patients, family members and researchers. We raised over $85,000 in pledges for the Foundation and generated many, many volunteers for our organization,” says Simmons. “Dr. Toretsky also speaks at the event, to educate patients and everyone about pediatric sarcoma.”

Along with those events, an upcoming PET PALS, for translational research of veterinary medicine to cancer research, is in progress. This collaboration with veterinary oncologists, medical oncologists, the pharmaceutical industry and academic research is crucial for new discoveries concerning pediatric sarcoma. The most recent donation by Dani’s Foundation was given to Colorado State University’s Animal Cancer Center in order to find comparative oncology studies on sarcomas.

With these efforts from a small but powerful team, the world is much closer to finding a cure to pediatric sarcoma. Dani’s Foundation is an exceptional example for everyone; they provide hope for the future.

MORE INFORMATION

Ewing Sarcoma is a bone or soft tissue malignant tumor most commonly found in the pelvis, femur, humerus, ribs and clavicle areas of the body. It is listed as one of the least occurring bone tumors for childhood cancers by the Center for Disease Control and it is categorized in the same familial strain of cancer as Osteosarcoma.

If you would like to join the Sarcoma Patient Registry, please send an email to sfa@registrypartners.com with your contact information and the most convenient time and method to contact you, or you can call 866.501.6780.

To donate, volunteer or get more information about upcoming fundraisers, visit danisfoundation.org