The Broadmoor, set against the majesty of the Rocky Mountains, is the Grand Dame of Colorado hotels. The luxury property has held the Forbes (formerly Mobil) Five Star and AAA Five Diamond designation longer than any other hotel in the country (Stars since 1960 and Diamonds since 1976).
This Colorado Springs destination property wasn’t always so grand. It began life as The Broadmoor Casino in 1891, a boom time for gold and silver mining in Colorado. A hotel was added in 1896 and there was nothing particularly grand about it. That is until Spencer Penrose bought it in 1916. He created an elegant, European-style hotel, something he and his wife felt was lacking in the U.S. The Broadmoor opened in 1918 with a telling slogan: “European elegance meets western hospitality.” The place was a wonder and still is to this day.
From the moment you check in at the gatehouse and are greeted by the doorman and valet stationed in front of the original building you know you’re in for a taste of luxury. The lobby, with its rich wood paneling and Maxfield Parish mural behind reception, echoes another era. You feel for a moment like you’ve been transported back in time. But today at The Broadmoor, the elegance of a bygone era meets state-of-the-art modernity and the combination is a winner.
The elegant resort has grown to 744 rooms and suites, yet still retains its original European feel. Our fifth floor Superior Room had an exquisite view of Cheyenne Lake and the mountains beyond. The quaint Juliet balcony with wrought iron railing and lushly blooming window box, evoked thoughts of a mountain chalet somewhere in the Alps. Rooms are elegantly furnished and offer many amenities guests will love. My favorite: the large marble soaking tub in the marble bath, perfect for a bath lover like me.
Today, the resort is like a compact well-run city, offering guests a wide variety of activities over its vast 3,000 acres, where an efficient shuttle easily whisks you around. There are three golf courses, six tennis courts (two enclosed), a huge outdoor infinity pool, an indoor pool and lap pool, a world class spa, nine restaurants (plus cafes and lounges), upscale retail shops and more. You can stay for a week or longer and be busy enough to never leave the grounds. And while you’re there, you’ll be pampered by the attentive, well-trained staff. The place runs like a well-oiled Swiss train and certainly deserves those stars and diamonds.
Start the day with breakfast in either the Charles Court or the Lakeside Dining Room where you can enjoy a sumptuous buffet or order a la carte. If you’re feeling lazy, then opt for room service. There’s something deliciously decadent about a room service breakfast cart draped in linen. Our server set the table near the window where we could enjoy the fresh air and glorious views.
When you’re ready to start your day, you can choose from the many activities the resort offers or relax poolside in a private cabana. The kids will especially love the water slides. Later, take in a round of golf or tennis then finish the day with a fabulous spa treatment. In the evening, dine at the Five Diamond Penrose Room, the Four Star Charles Court fronting Cheyenne Lake or at the trendy Summit across Lake Circle from the hotel. It’s an easy walk but if you’re feeling lazy the shuttle will take you. If you prefer something a bit more casual, then head to the Golden Bee for excellent pub fare. A leisurely stroll around the lake is a great way to walk off The Bee’s famous Fish & Chips.
When it’s time to hit the sack comfort practically envelops you as The Broadmoor’s beds are custom-made for the hotel. Shades close at the touch of a bedside switch and if you aren’t checking out in the morning, you can sleep-in and have another glorious day tomorrow.
*If your trip is a working one, The Broadmoor has two business centers for your convenience and rooms in the South Tower have the added convenience of in-room printer/faxes.