Tag Archives: ski resorts

Mountain Munchies: The Best (and Worst) Ski Resort Food I’ve Ever Had

Oh, darling, let me tell you, when it comes to skiing, there are two things that can either make or break your day on the slopes: the snow conditions and the food. Yes, you heard me right. Ski resort food can either be a delightful surprise or a cringe-worthy catastrophe. And since I’ve sampled it all, from the gourmet to the grotesque, it’s high time we dished about it.

You see, skiing isn’t just about the thrill of the ride down the mountain or the après-ski cocktails. It’s about refueling and recharging between runs. And let me tell you, ski resorts have a knack for offering up a diverse menu of culinary experiences. So, grab your ski poles, or better yet, a fork and knife, and let’s dive into the world of mountain munchies.

The Lodge Luxuries

Let’s start with the good stuff, shall we? The gourmet delights that make you forget you’re even wearing ski boots.

1. Alpine Indulgence: Fondue Fit for Royalty

When you think of ski resort cuisine, what’s the first thing that comes to mind? If it’s not a bubbling pot of cheese fondue, then you’re missing out. I had the pleasure of indulging in this alpine classic at a Swiss-inspired lodge in the Rockies, and it was pure decadence. Picture yourself dipping cubes of crusty bread into a velvety blend of Gruyère and Emmental cheese, with a hint of white wine and garlic. It’s like a warm, cheesy hug for your taste buds.

2. Slope-side Sushi: Freshness at Altitude

Now, you might not expect to find sushi in the mountains, but let me tell you, some ski resorts go all out. I stumbled upon a sushi bar at a high-end lodge in Aspen, and I was skeptical, to say the least. But one bite of the perfectly crafted rolls, featuring fresh fish flown in daily, and I was a believer. There’s something about the contrast between the cold, delicate fish and the crisp mountain air that’s simply magical.

3. Mountainside Mimosas: Brunch with a View

If you’re not a morning person (and who is, really, when you’re on vacation?), then you’ll appreciate a good brunch spot on the mountain. I found one with panoramic views of the ski slopes and a menu that featured everything from classic eggs Benedict to build-your-own bloody marys. And, of course, mimosas that flowed like water. Nothing says “vacation mode” like sipping champagne while wearing ski gear.

The Hits and Misses

Now, let’s talk about the ski resort food that left me scratching my head, and not in a good way.

1. Taco Truck Troubles: The Mystery Meat Experience

Picture this: you’ve just finished an epic morning of skiing, and you’re starving. You spot a food truck at the base of the mountain, and the smell is intoxicating. Tacos it is! Or so I thought. What arrived on my plate was a sad excuse for Mexican cuisine. The mystery meat could have been anything from beef to cardboard. Lesson learned: always check the online reviews before you commit to the ski resort taco truck.

2. Chili Conundrum: Soup or Gravel?

Skiing in the cold demands a warm bowl of comfort food, and chili seems like the obvious choice, right? Wrong. At one ski resort, I ordered a bowl of chili that could only be described as a crime against chili itself. It was more like a bowl of lukewarm gravel with a few beans thrown in for good measure. I took one spoonful and promptly abandoned my lunch.

3. Sloppy Slopes: The Sloppiest Sloppy Joes

I’ll admit, I have a soft spot for a good ol’ Sloppy Joe. So when I saw it on the menu at a rustic lodge, I thought I’d struck gold. But what I got was more like a landslide on a bun. The Sloppy Joe mix was so watery that it oozed out of the bun with every bite, creating a culinary disaster that required multiple napkins and a change of clothes.

The Unexpected Delights

Sometimes, ski resort food surprises you in the best possible way.

1. The Heavenly Hot Chocolate: A Sweet Surprise

Now, I know hot chocolate is a ski resort staple, but this one was something special. Imagine a steaming mug of velvety hot chocolate topped with a cloud of whipped cream and a drizzle of caramel. But the real kicker? A splash of peppermint schnapps to warm your insides and make the cold seem miles away. It’s like a liquid hug in a snowstorm.

2. Fireside S’mores: Toasted Marshmallow Magic

After a long day on the mountain, there’s nothing quite like gathering around a roaring firepit with friends, toasting marshmallows, and crafting the perfect s’more. It’s a simple pleasure that never gets old, and it’s a sweet way to end a day of adventure.

Conclusion

So, there you have it, my culinary adventures in the world of ski resort food. From the sublime to the ridiculous, ski resort dining is an experience like no other. Whether you’re savoring the finest fondue or puzzling over a plate of mystery meat tacos, one thing’s for sure: the memories you make at the table are just as unforgettable as those on the slopes.

So, my fellow ski enthusiasts, next time you hit the mountain, keep your taste buds ready for anything. After all, it’s not just about the skiing; it’s about the mountain munchies that make the journey all the more delicious.

Ski Resorts: The Good, the Bad, and the Boujee

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Oh, sweethearts, let’s talk ski resorts, shall we? Now, before you start picturing me swishing down the slopes like a pro (let’s be real, I’m more of a “fall gracefully and laugh it off” kind of gal), let me tell you about my experiences. I’ve been to ski resorts that felt like they were ripped right out of a luxury travel magazine, and others that left me scratching my head and asking, “Is this a resort or a bad reality TV set?” So, buckle up, my snow bunnies, because we’re going on a ski resort rollercoaster ride.

The Boujee Ones

First things first, let’s talk about the boujee resorts. You know the type – the ones where the air smells like cashmere, and the hot tubs are practically overflowing with champagne. If you’ve got the budget for it, these places can make you feel like you’re the star of your own ski-themed rom-com.

1. Aspen, Colorado

Ah, Aspen. The name itself practically oozes wealth. This place is like the Beverly Hills of ski resorts. The slopes are groomed to perfection, and the après-ski scene is, well, let’s just say it’s more “who’s who” than “ski bum.” The accommodations range from cozy chalets to mega-mansions, and you’ll find some of the best fine dining on the mountain. Just be prepared to drop some serious cash.

2. Courchevel, France

Now, if you want to take your boujee ski experience international, hop on a plane to Courchevel in the French Alps. This place is where the European elite come to play. The ski-in, ski-out chalets are like something out of a James Bond movie, and the on-mountain restaurants serve up Michelin-starred cuisine. It’s all très chic, darling.

3. Deer Valley, Utah

If you prefer your ski experience with a side of exclusivity, Deer Valley is the place to be. They cap the number of lift tickets sold each day, so you won’t have to deal with crowded slopes. Plus, they don’t allow snowboarders, so you can carve in peace. The lodges here are pure mountain luxury, complete with ski valets to carry your gear.

The Good Ones

Okay, not all of us are rolling in dough, and that’s perfectly fine. There are plenty of ski resorts that offer a fantastic experience without the hefty price tag.

1. Breckenridge, Colorado

Breckenridge is like that reliable friend who’s always down for a good time but won’t make you file for bankruptcy. The town is charming, and the mountain is massive. You’ll find terrain for all skill levels, and there’s a laid-back vibe that’s hard to beat. Plus, the après-ski scene is all about craft beer and comfort food.

2. Whitefish, Montana

Montana may not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of ski resorts, but Whitefish is a hidden gem. The prices are reasonable, the powder is abundant, and the town is downright adorable. Don’t miss the chance to explore Glacier National Park while you’re here.

3. Taos, New Mexico

Taos is where you go when you want a ski experience with a side of culture. The ski resort is known for its challenging terrain, and the town itself is steeped in history and art. Plus, the food scene is a delightful mix of Southwestern flavors.

The Bad Ones

Now, let’s get to the juicy part – the ski resorts that left me scratching my head and wondering if I’d accidentally stumbled into a low-budget movie set.

1. That One Resort I Won’t Name

Look, I’m not one to name names, but there was this one resort where I swear the chairlifts were older than my grandmother. And don’t get me started on the lodge—it looked like it hadn’t been updated since the ’80s. The only thing worse than the accommodations was the ski instructors who seemed more interested in flirting than teaching.

2. The “Budget” Resort

You know the type—the ones that market themselves as “affordable” and “family-friendly.” Well, I visited one of these, and let me tell you, it was an experience. The slopes were overcrowded, the rental equipment was practically falling apart, and the cafeteria served up mystery meat that I’m pretty sure was leftover from the ’90s.

3. The “Hollywood” Resort

This one’s a bit of a head-scratcher. It’s located just a few hours from Los Angeles, so it attracts its fair share of Hollywood types. But instead of feeling glamorous, it felt more like a scene from a reality TV show. I half-expected to see cameras following people around, capturing all the drama on and off the slopes.

The Verdict

So, there you have it, my darlings—the good, the bad, and the boujee of ski resorts. Whether you’re sipping champagne in Aspen, savoring craft beer in Breckenridge, or scratching your head at a budget resort, one thing’s for sure: every ski trip is an adventure.

Remember, it’s not just about the destination; it’s about the memories you make along the way. So, whether you’re carving like a pro or tumbling like a toddler, embrace the ski resort experience, boujee or not.

Now, I’m off to plan my next ski adventure, and I promise to spill all the juicy details in my next post. Until then, stay fabulous, my snow-loving friends!

Why I Almost Threw My Ski Poles at a Snowboarder (And Other Mountain Misadventures)

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Oh, mountains. They’re majestic, they’re serene, and they’re the perfect setting for some downright ridiculous stories. If you’ve ever been skiing or snowboarding, you’ll know that the slopes are a melting pot of chaos just waiting to happen. And boy, have I had my share of mountain misadventures.

The Snowboarder Incident

Let’s start with the juicy bit. Why on earth would I want to throw my ski poles at a snowboarder? Well, dear reader, it wasn’t because of some age-old skier vs. snowboarder feud. No, it was much pettier than that.

I was cruising down a blue run, enjoying the crisp air and the sound of snow crunching beneath my skis. Life was good. That was until Mr. Snowboarder came along, sliding sideways across the slope and creating a massive snow cloud in his wake. You know the kind, where you’re temporarily blinded and choking on snowflakes. Not fun.

Now, I could’ve brushed it off. But then, as fate would have it, he decided to stop right in front of me. And by “stop,” I mean he sat down. Right in the middle of the slope. No warning, no looking back, just plopped his behind down as if he was settling in for a picnic.

I swerved, narrowly avoiding a collision, but my ski tips dove into the powder and sent me tumbling. As I picked myself up, ski poles in hand, the thought did cross my mind: “I could totally chuck these at him.” But, being the mature adult that I am (most of the time), I chose to shoot him a death glare instead. It’s the little victories, right?

The Lift Line Fiasco

If you’ve never had an awkward encounter in a ski lift line, are you even a skier? These places are a breeding ground for uncomfortable moments.

One time, I was waiting my turn, minding my business, when a guy skied up behind me and… stepped on my ski. Now, if you’ve never experienced this, it’s a bit like having your shoe stepped on, but about ten times more annoying because you’re strapped in. I wobbled, flailed, and yes, fell flat on my face.

But wait, it gets better. As I was trying to gracefully recover (as gracefully as one can with skis attached to their feet), another skier managed to get tangled in my poles. It was a mess. A tangled, snowy, embarrassing mess. All I could do was laugh. Because really, what are the odds?

The Mysterious Case of the Missing Ski

It was a perfect day. Fresh powder, blue skies, and not a care in the world. I was riding high, quite literally, on one of the resort’s tallest peaks. After a particularly exhilarating run, I decided to take a break and soak in the views.

I planted my skis in the snow and sat down for a snack. When it was time to head back down, I noticed something horrifying: one of my skis was missing. Vanished. Gone without a trace.

I looked around, hoping it had just slid away a bit, but nope. It was nowhere to be seen. Did a ski thief roam these mountains? Did a mischievous squirrel drag it away? I had no answers.

Resigned to my fate, I had to make the trek down the mountain with one ski. Let me tell you, it’s not an experience I’d recommend.

The mystery was finally solved when I reached the base. A very apologetic skier approached me, holding my missing ski. Turns out, he’d mistaken it for his own and only realized his error halfway down. I was just relieved to be reunited with my trusty ski.

The Epic Snowball Fight

You might think that snowball fights are for kids. Well, I’m here to tell you that they’re also for adults who’ve had a little too much après-ski mulled wine.

It started innocently enough. A snowball tossed between friends. But then, other skiers and snowboarders joined in, and before we knew it, it was an all-out war.

Snowballs whizzed through the air. Fortresses were built. Alliances were formed and broken. It was epic. By the end, we were all soaked, cold, and laughing our heads off. It was one of those spontaneous moments that make ski trips so memorable.

In Conclusion

The mountains are full of surprises. Some days, you’ll have the run of your life. Other days, you’ll find yourself contemplating ski pole-related violence. But that’s all part of the fun, isn’t it?

So, next time you’re on the slopes and things don’t go quite as planned, just remember: it’s all part of the adventure. And hey, at least you’ll have a good story to tell.

The Slopes and Sips: My Top 5 Après-Ski Drinks and Where to Get Them

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Ah, skiing. The exhilarating rush as you zip down the mountainside, the feel of the crisp air on your face, the… wait, who am I kidding? As much as I adore skiing (and trust me, I do), there’s one other aspect of the sport I might love just a smidge more: the après-ski. Because, let’s be honest, after a day of conquering the mountains (or at least trying to), there’s nothing quite like warming up with a delicious drink in hand.

So, in the spirit of sharing (and because I’ve had one too many après-ski beverages in my day), I’ve decided to spill the beans on my top 5 favorite après-ski drinks. And, because I’m feeling extra generous, I’ll even let you in on where to find the best versions of these delightful concoctions. Ready? Let’s dive in.

1. Mulled Wine: The Classic

What it is: Red wine, heated and spiced with cinnamon, cloves, star anise, and orange.

Why I love it: There’s something undeniably comforting about sipping on a warm, aromatic glass of mulled wine. It’s like a cozy blanket for your insides.

Where to get it: Head over to the chalets in Switzerland, specifically Chalet Cozy in Zermatt. They serve a mulled wine that’s so good it might just make you consider staying off the slopes for the day. (But don’t. Because then you’d miss out on more après-ski.)

2. Hot Toddy: The Cure-All

What it is: A mix of whiskey, honey, lemon, and hot water.

Why I love it: Not only is the hot toddy a delicious way to warm up, but it’s also been known to work wonders on sore muscles and sniffles. Think of it as the après-ski version of chicken soup.

Where to get it: The Frosty Mug in Aspen, Colorado. Their version of the hot toddy uses locally sourced honey and a bourbon that has a hint of caramel undertones. It’s the kind of drink that’ll make you go, “Cold? What cold?”

3. Spiked Hot Chocolate: The Indulgent Treat

What it is: Rich hot chocolate with a shot (or two, no judgment here) of your favorite spirit.

Why I love it: Sometimes, after a day of tumbles and turns, you just need a little liquid dessert. And when that dessert also has a kick? Even better.

Where to get it: Cocoa Haven in Whistler, Canada. This place is known for its decadent hot chocolates, and when you add in their premium dark rum, it’s a match made in après-ski heaven.

4. Schnapps: The Bold Choice

What it is: A strong alcoholic drink distilled from fruit or grain.

Why I love it: It’s not for the faint of heart, but there’s something about a shot of schnapps that just hits the spot after a day on the slopes. Maybe it’s the instant warmth it brings, or maybe it’s the liquid courage for tomorrow’s ski adventures.

Where to get it: Any self-respecting bar in the Austrian Alps, but if I had to pick one, it’d be Schnappy Hour in St. Anton. They have a dizzying array of schnapps flavors, from classic apple to more adventurous options like elderflower.

5. Irish Coffee: The Best of Both Worlds

What it is: Hot coffee, Irish whiskey, sugar, and topped with cream.

Why I love it: It combines two of my favorite things: caffeine and booze. Plus, it’s the perfect pick-me-up when you’re feeling a little sluggish after lunch.

Where to get it: Bean and Booze in Park City, Utah. They use freshly brewed artisanal coffee and a smooth Irish whiskey that makes for a harmonious blend. The whipped cream on top is just the cherry (or should I say, cream?) on the cake.

Now, before I wrap this up, a little PSA: remember to drink responsibly. The mountains are gorgeous, but they’re also unpredictable. Always make sure you’re in a good state to navigate your way back to your lodgings (or better yet, have a designated non-drinker in your group). And hey, if all else fails, there’s no shame in ordering a plain old hot cocoa. After all, it’s the company and the memories that make the après-ski so special.

So, the next time you’re on a ski trip, give one (or all) of these drinks a try. And if you discover a new favorite that I haven’t mentioned, do let me know. After all, there’s always room for one more beverage in my après-ski repertoire. Cheers! 🍷🎿🍸

A Sketch of a Ski Mountain, courtesy of Yonderoo – How to draw a Mountain

Liked this article? Share it with your fellow ski bunnies and make sure to tag me. Until next time, keep those ski tips up and your glasses full!

Some Popular Ski Resorts for This Season

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Ski Season is here! There are many popular ski resorts around the world, but some of the most well-known ones include:

Whistler Blackcomb, British Columbia, Canada
Aspen Snowmass, Colorado, United States
Vail, Colorado, United States
Courchevel, France
Zermatt, Switzerland
Banff Sunshine, Alberta, Canada
Jackson Hole Mountain Resort, Wyoming, United States
Mammoth Mountain, California, United States
Niseko United, Hokkaido, Japan
Mt. Hutt, Canterbury, New Zealand

This is just a small sample, and there are many other fantastic ski resorts to choose from depending on your location and preferences.

Whistler Blackcomb

Hey y’all! So I just spent a weekend at the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort in British Columbia, Canada, and let me tell you – it was absolutely friggin’ amazing.

First of all, the mountain itself is massive. There are over 200 marked trails, so there’s plenty of terrain for skiers and snowboarders of all levels. The views from the top are also unbeatable. You can see for miles and miles in every direction, and it’s just this incredible, otherworldly landscape.

But the best part? The après ski scene. Holy cow. There are so many amazing restaurants and bars to choose from, and everyone is just so friendly and welcoming. I had some of the best meals of my life at Whistler, and the nightlife was off the hook. I can’t even begin to tell you how much fun we had.

All in all, I would highly recommend the Whistler Blackcomb ski resort to anyone. It’s the complete package – great skiing, stunning scenery, and an amazing après ski scene. I can’t wait to go back!

Aspen Snowmass

I spent a week at the Aspen Snowmass ski resort in Colorado, and let me tell you – the ski conditions were absolutely friggin’ perfect.

The mountain itself is a skier’s paradise. There are over 5,300 acres of skiable terrain, and the snow was just so soft and powdery. I’ve never had such a good time skiing in my life. The runs were also really well-groomed, which made for a smooth and enjoyable experience.

The ski patrol and lift operators were all so friendly and helpful. They were always there to give us a hand or answer any questions we had. It really made a difference and added to the overall enjoyment of the trip.

All in all, I would highly recommend the Aspen Snowmass ski resort to anyone. The ski conditions are top-notch, and the staff really goes above and beyond to make sure you have a great time. I can’t wait to go back!