When was the last time you felt and experienced a “Retreat”? I’m not talking about a withdrawal from enemy forces but more simply an overnight escape to a place of beauty, inspiration and rest. On one hand, it is totally a withdrawal from the everyday routine that is truly needed. From home responsibilities to work, a retreat can give you permission to hit the pause button on the fullness of everyday life.

Over time I have learned, that if I don’t replenish my own internal source my ability to give to others diminishes greatly and the ease that I prefer to design and problem solve becomes less intuitive. I’ve found that this is easily accomplished through body work, walks in nature, conversation with friends or a nurturing meal with the ones that you love. Other times, an overnight resort escape can feel like a week away when you allow your curiosity and awe to take over.

Recently, I found myself craving just such an adventure. With a good friend by my side we made our way west on I-70 anticipating our long booked overnight stay at Devils Thumb Resort in Tabernash, Colorado. After a slow, snowy drive over Berthoud Pass we made our way down past Winter Park getting closer to where the magic of the resort would quickly unfold.

Located on 6,500 acres of Rocky Mountain Wilderness, the valley to the resort opens up as you make your way down a small windy road. The snow covered valley is lined with views of the forest, horses welcome you in the distance while the promise of winter adventure is right around the corner.

Arriving shortly after noon we couldn’t wait to get our snow shoes on and explore the land around us.The sun was glistening off the snow packed trails while cross country skiers moved in the distance. The chill of the mountain air has a way of expanding your breath to a deeper place within you that the city never really touches.

THE SNOW CREATES A BEAUTIFUL SILENCE THAT GOES FOR MILES. IT LEAVES YOU WITH THE SOUNDS OF NATURE, THE RHYTHM OF YOUR HEART AND THE CONVERSATIONS AT HAND. IT’S QUICK TO REMIND YOU OF YOUR OWN PRESENCE WHILE EVERYTHING ELSE RECEDES INTO THE BACKGROUND.

With our heart rates up and the thoughts of the day to day quickly fading, it was time to visit the spa. From the moment we entered we were instantly transformed into the Colorado Ranch Spa experience. The design intent is a true ranch vibe. Barn wood anchors the ceiling and walls, while wrought iron chandeliers sparkle light from above. The sound of fire crackles in the waiting room as you make your way to the locker rooms beyond. Copper tubs, river rock lined showers and brass fixtures all delight the senses as the space takes you quickly beyond the home you left behind. Everything here is layered with the comfort of warm patterned rugs, dark leather upholstery and the softest spa robes ever.

We both opted for their signature 80 min Antara CBD Massage. Laced with the aromatherapy of our choosing, we both left our session completely relaxed and pain free. Being in such a dry climate, my skin was instantly quenched by the rich combination of arnica oil and citrus.

Walking into Heck’s Tavern for dinner you are instantly greeted by an oversized fireplace that fills the center of the two story volume. The craftsmanship that has gone into the wood columns, custom chandeliers and decorative metal work fills you with that otherworldly ranch type of place that only travel can show you some times. All of the Wagyu served at the ranch is raised on the surrounding land, the fish locally caught and the beets were an absolute delight. The care that goes into every detail leaves you feeling the romance of the Colorado experience all around you.

Back in our rooms the beds brought much needed rest to our restorative day. Aesthetically, they were like the spa on a much smaller scale. We woke up the next morning and took advantage of the yoga class that’s included. As the snow fell out the windows that surrounded us, the warmth of the space was only magnified through the teaching of our instructor, Stacy. The practice was nurturing, well paced and perfect for my first time back on the mat since having foot surgery last fall. Before we left, she teased us with the anticipation and promise of participating in her new practice of Mindful Equine Yoga that would await us if we returned in the summer.

After a leisurely breakfast and a late check out we extended the magic just a little bit longer going back and forth between the hot tub and pool. There are so many places to cozy up to read, write and reflect in the main lodge that it felt hard to leave. Voices carried with laughter filled the room around us and families explored the trails outside.

NEIL YOUNG’S HEART OF GOLD PLAYED IN THE DISTANCE AND I INSTANTLY FELT LIKE I WAS HOME AND IT WAS TIME TO GO HOME

Although more days would have been a delight, the intensity, relaxation, and gratitude that came in 24 hours was enough to fill me up. I found myself refreshed, inspired and nurtured, eager to share what I’ve learned and ready to create from a new place of being.

You know when you need an intentional break and the good news is that freedom, nature and comfort can help you restore your own inner balance so that you can give from a place of abundance. I hope you find spaciousness in your life and a way to add more peace to your experience. – sara