Discover the Magic of The Estes Park Resort in Colorado

I’ve been to Estes Park several times, and each time I pass drive by Lake Estes into the downtown area, I look across the water at the view of Estes Park Resort, imagining how incredible it must be to stay there. And, during my last visit, my wish came true. It’s better than I imagined, and I need to give you the scoop.

Rustic luxury, epic lake views, breathtaking sunset and sunrise views over the mountains from your deck, with large rooms, delicious food and a heavenly spa set in a literal snow globe… Estes Park is a dreamy winter destination and The Estes Park Resort rounds out the fairy tale.

The Location and Atmosphere

Coming from Denver, you’ll drive HWY 36 into the town. Off this road, just before you reach downtown, you’ll find the resort sitting on the backside of the lake. You’ll know it when you see it – it’s the ONLY hotel right on the lake.

You’re about 2 miles/5 minutes from downtown. It’s an easy drive, but it’s also a fun walk into town along the paved Lake Estes Trail. From the walk and from your room you can see Twin Sisters and Longs Peak.

The resort was just renovated but the owner kept the original charm of a quaint log cabin feel. You just feel at home the moment you walk in. If you’re anything like me, you won’t want to leave!

Rooms & Suites: Your Home Away from Home

The rooms’ renovations will blow you away! I spent three nights in one of the corner suites – and before you roll your eyes at the splurge you should know that they are very affordable. I have stayed in a generic “big box” hotel room in Denver for more than the cost of this luxurious suite!

The huge space included a wet bar with Keurig, microwave and mini fridge, a table for four, a large and cozy leather sofa in front of a gas fireplace, a comfy king bed, a large dresser and closet, two balconies facing the lake and mountains, and a bathroom with a rain shower, and windows galore!

From the fluffy pillows on the sofa to the impeccable art on the walls to the faux fur blanket on the bed, every inch felt warm and welcoming… exactly what you’d hope for when overnighting in a postcard.

I loved waking up early in the mornings to enjoy a cup of tea, watch the sunrise, and then settle into the sofa in front of the fireplace for a bit before heading out. When you’re warming by the fire in your jammies with snowy mountain views out your glass doors, it feels like all is right with the world.

The Food Experience

Not only did the rooms get an update, but the restaurant did as well. The aesthetic and the cuisine! I highly recommend dinner at the resort, whether or not you decide to overnight here.

Ember Restaurant & Bar offers breakfast and lunch, as well as a casual but upscale dinner menu. The draw for lunch is the view of the lake and mountains through the floor-to-ceiling windows – or on the deck in warmer months. And in the evenings when night overtakes the view, the soft warm lighting and rich tones of the restaurant feel intimate without being stuffy.

Let’s get down to the nitty gritty – the food. I enjoyed dinner here, and based on my own meal (as well as the nibbles I indulged on from the friend’s plates) there is not one single dish here that is less than amazing.

To begin, grab the house-made burrata with grilled veggies and the ahi wontons. Both were hard to “share” with the rest of the table. Ha!

For the main course I selected the steak frites. It was a perfectly cooked filet with brown butter and candied bacon, along side the best garlic-parmesan fries I’ve ever eaten. It was so much food that I couldn’t even think of dessert – even though the carrot cake was calling my name. Next time.

My friends selected lobster bisque, duck breast with cherry gastrique, scallops with risotto, and sea bass with polenta and bok choy. They were all impressive, beautifully presented, and quite delicious.

Amenities & Experiences You Won’t Want to Miss

The onsite Qi Lounge Wellness Spa offers an array of services. If you just want a taste of the spa, book theUltimate Check-In Package Add-On. It includes 15 minutes in a zero gravity massage chair, use of the dry sauna, a warm foot soak and shoulder wrap, and a glass of prosecco. All that for just $60!

There is also a fitness center, fire pits, and s’mores kits. In the warm months you can enjoy lawn games or rent paddleboards to take on the lake.

You’ll also find accessible rooms, ample free parking, and wedding/meeting options.

All in all, Estes Park Resort is the ideal place to stay during your visit. I can’t imagine staying anywhere else.