Park City, it’s not just for winter anymore!
I scored a gold medal by bringing my friends to Utah.
I ran into my friend Brian at a party a few months ago. “Where are you going next?” he asked, knowing that travel is my favorite pastime. When I told him I was going to Park City, Utah, he immediately informed me that Park City is one of his favorite destinations. After all, it’s the location of the largest ski resort in the country with huge snowfall and acres and acres of powder, moguls and all levels of runs. When he heard I was going in August he looked at me like I had lost my mind and questioned why anyone would visit this former Winter Olympic venue when there was no snow on the ground. I proceeded to explain that nothing good could come of Larry hurtling down a mountain with skis attached to his feet. The only question would be what part of my anatomy would be broken when I reached the bottom of the mountain. I told him I was a warm-weather kind of guy and there was plenty to do in Utah during the summer months.
As it turned out, I was right! Last week 7 friends and I headed to the Chateau Residences in Park City through THIRDHOME to spend a week exploring Utah. This was our 2ndAnnual Birthday Bash as 3 of us have birthdays within the same week. None of us had ever set foot in Utah, but getting out of hot and muggy Virginia and visiting the Rockies in August seemed like an admirable plan. We had a memorable vacation experience and easily could have spent an additional week or 2 exploring Utah.
Here are my top 10 reasons to plan a summer trip to visit Park City:
- Within a four-hour drive from Park City are several really cool National Parks to explore including Zion, Bryce Canyon
and Arches. - The weather in summer is perfect to hike, dine outside and bike around town. Sunny and 80 degrees during the day and 55 degrees at night with no humidity, no bugs
and no icy roads. - Live music everywhere! The music scene has something for everyone. Free concerts, big-name bands and outstanding outdoor venues where you can bring a blanket and cooler and pass the evening away.
- The Olympic Village is hopping in the summer. Ski jumpers practice their jumps into a huge swimming pool, zip lines are operating and you can even take a bobsled ride on wheels going up to 70 mph (way too fast for my liking).
- Outdoor dining on Main Street. Rooftop decks and funky restaurants and bars are plentiful downtown. Everything from buffalo burgers to Tex Mex and even a Whiskey distillery
are available to tourists and locals to sample. Our favorite was The No Name Bar with great drinks and food! The eclectic décor was fun as was the wait staff. - Go to the top of a mountain on a chair lift or gondola. All summer, chair lifts are available to get visitors up high. You can even hike down from the top if you want to get outstanding views of the valleys.
- Flowers are everywhere. Colorful wildflowers on the mountainside and stunning displays of flowers in the hotels and on Main Street downtown.
- Biking is a huge summer pastime in Park City. The adventurous ride mountain bikes down the side of the mountain and the serious bikers ride up and down the mountain roads. They even have electric bikes for old guys like me.
- The Egyptian Theater on Main Street features movies, plays
and concerts all year long including flicks from the Sundance Film Festival. This historic 1926 venue is a don’t miss site. - If you end up needing medical care due to an unplanned event (like a twisted knee on a hiking trail you never should have been on for instance), Park City InstaCare’s physicians and staff are friendly and professional.
Now a word about our lodging. At this point, many of my friends are spoiled due to my THIRDHOME membership. The Chateau Deer Valley Residence Club did not disappoint! Our residence was roomy with 4 ensuite bedrooms, a comfy living room with a fireplace and a fully equipped kitchen. The property amenities were nothing short of spectacular featuring a daily bountiful breakfast buffet, fire pits, spa facilities, transportation across the Deer Park area and outstanding concierge assistance. The staff were helpful in all our planning and even provided a cake and balloons for birthday girl Fiesta’s 50-year celebration.
And so to my skiing friends who forget that the Rocky Mountains exist during the summer months, I say you are missing some prime vacation opportunities to experience what I consider to be the most breathtaking region of the United States. THIRDHOME offers several options in Colorado and Utah, and I know for certain I’m coming back next year. I plan to be a returning gold medalist!
Destinations like Cancun, Miami and Puerto Vallarta usually rear their heads when Spring Break conversations begin around the dinner table. While there’s nothing wrong with these destinations, March is also an amazing time to visit other less obvious choices with the family. Don’t let your upcoming Spring Break fall prey to a crowded beach, visit one of these destinations instead.
Check out our top 5 picks for Undiscovered Spring Break Destinations for 2019
Lake Tahoe, California
For a unique combination of mountain adventure and shoreside barbecues, consider visiting Lake Tahoe this Spring Break. If you’ve ever wondered what it’s like to ski in nothing but a swimsuit, make your way up to Northstar or Squaw Valley for a sun-soaked slalom. After a day of skiing, relax by Emerald Bay’s gorgeous water or go shopping in South Lake Tahoe. Snowshoe/hiking trails, delicious local food, concerts, and breweries are also plentiful in the surrounding area. For ski/snowboarders, this Spring Break destination is a must.
Brazilian Coast
Looking for a tropical beachfront Spring Break without the deafening crowds found at other destinations? Consider booking a property on Brazil’s expansive coast. The coastal states of Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Parana and Santa Catarina all feature miles upon miles of unspoiled beach. Between Rio and Florianópolis you’ll find plenty of beachfront properties, including some residences surrounding the famous Balneario Camburiu Bay. For beach fun and cultural exploration, a coastal Brazilian retreat might be just what the doctor ordered.
Park City, Utah
Another destination for ski lovers, Park City is a multi-faceted destination with lots of family-friendly fun to offer. Besides skiing and snowboarding, Park City, in Spring, features a Free Après Ski Concert Series, the Park City Museum, a wide variety of restaurants, distilleries, fly-fishing, hot-air balloon rides, and various hiking trails. Outdoor activities, great food, and relaxation all await you and your family this Spring Break.
Carlsbad, California
The perfect coastal family destination on the outskirts of San Diego, Carlsbad offers many of the main staples of a beachfront Spring Break without the crowds or rowdiness. Small children will have plenty to do besides playing on the beach. Take the kids to Legoland California, the San Diego Zoo or the Museum of Making Music for fun and educational experiences. Disneyland is also just a short drive up to Anaheim. Book a Carlsbad Spring Break stay for a kid-friendly vacation with plenty of sun and lots of fun.
San Carlos de Bariloche, Argentina
Your most unique option this Spring Break is Argentina’s Patagonia mountain range. San Carlos de Bariloche, a mountain town surrounding a large glacial lake, is one of the most beautiful hidden gems of the Andes. With Swiss and German architecture, Bariloche feels more like a misplaced Bavarian village than an Andean town. Enjoy swimming, mountain biking, kayaking and Bariloche’s Swiss-style chocolate stores during your mountain stay.
Make the most out of this Spring Break by going outside the box!
Looking for more ideas? Check out our current March availability by clicking below.
What’s a ski chalet without skis? Make your next ski trip a breeze by letting Ski Butlers sweat the heavy stuff.
Let us make your ski-cation less stressful by helping you get all of your skis in a row, literally. As a member of THIRDHOME you already have access to residences at some of the world’s top ski destinations. Once you have reserved your THIRDHOME ski property, our partnership with Ski Butlers can add another touch of luxury to your ski vacation!
Ski Butlers allows you to reserve your ski gear in advance. They will bring you gear to your THIRDHOME ski residence and make sure it’s a perfect fit. A Ski Butlers representative will even come help you if you need new gear on the slopes! Additionally, you don’t have to pack the gear, they will pick it up when you are done. To top it off, THIRDHOME members get a 10% discount.
Gearing up a full family or large group for skiing can be a difficult challenge. THIRDHOME Senior Vice President of Business Development, Roger Conner knows first-hand, “I took a trip to Park City with my family to ski. There were 13 skiers, 5 of whom were kids. I was dreading the thought of rolling into a ski rental shop and trying to manage the chaos that was sure to ensue. Thankfully, I called our THIRDHOME Partner, Ski Butlers.”
If you have ski plans coming up, whether it’s at your own ski residence or a THIRDHOME residence, chances are Ski Butlers serves your location. You can find them at major American ski destinations, British Columbia and the French Alps. Sound appealing? Book gear with Ski Butlers this year using your special member benefit of 10% off!
Now that you know you’ve got the gear, if you don’t already have a place to stay, shall we interest you in a THIRDHOME chalet or full-service ski resort?
Browse THIRDHOME Properties in prime ski destinations where you can add on an equipment rental with Ski Butlers:
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THIRDHOME‘s Senior Vice President of Business Development, Roger Conner, recently returned from a family ski trip to Park City, Utah. Roger was worried about outfitting his large extended family with all the gear they needed to hit the slopes.
Roger turned to THIRDHOME partner, Ski Butlers, to help his family spend more time on the mountain and less time renting equipment.
Ski Butlers is Amazing!
“I recently took a trip to Park City with my family to ski. There were 13 skiers, 5 of whom were kids. I was dreading the thought of rolling into a ski rental shop and trying to manage the chaos that was sure to ensue. Thankfully, I called one of our new THIRDHOME Partners, Ski Butlers.
Their service was amazing. After giving them size and equipment information in advance online, they came to our residence, fitted everyone with personalized service, brought everything we needed and made the entire process so simple and easy.
It was even easier turning in our gear since they come to you and pick it up. Their people were terrific and they will even come to the mountain if you have issues while you are out.
And on top of all this, THIRDHOME members get a 10% discount. If you have ski plans coming up, chances are Ski Butler serves your location and can take all the stress out of renting your gear. Thanks, Ski Butlers!”- THIRDHOME Senior Vice President of Business Development, Roger Conner
Ready to make your next ski vacation less stressful? Book with Ski Butlers using your special member benefit of 10% off! You can find them at every major American ski destination, British Columbia and the French Alps.
John and Suzi Gilmore, North Carolina natives, have been THIRDHOME members since 2014. Since then they’ve taken 14 trips by using their property at Deer Valley Club. And now they’re planning to spend 2 months traveling Europe, using their Keys. Get to know THIRDHOME members John and Suzi Gilmore!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
Through our ownership at The Deer Valley Club in Deer Valley, Utah.
Where are you based?
Raleigh, NC, USA
Who do you usually travel with?
Usually with each other and we sometimes we have our son John Jr. with us.
What do you do for a living?
I have just retired from 23 years in sales management with Merck & Co., Inc. John is a retired Entrepreneur.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Skiing, yoga, cultural events, riding John’s Goldwing, sporting events, spa, shopping, visiting friends.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
That is a very difficult question because we have had so many wonderful stays! The UK and Europe are always at the top of our list, but we’ve also had terrific vacations in the US and Caribbean. What we love most about our THIRDHOME travels is getting a chance to stay ‘as a native’ and immerse ourselves in the local culture. Staying in a fantastic residence just enhances our experience!
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
We’re spending 2 months in Europe this summer so we’re hoping to use our Keys for maybe Italy, Paris, London, etc.
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
It’s easy! We decide when we want to be at our propriety in Deer Valley and we submit our other weeks to THIRDHOME and they do the rest!
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
We’ve stayed in some amazing places that we likely would not have been able to do so easily. Now that we’re both retired, we’ll be able to take even greater advantage of last minute travel opportunities (no Keys) and plan for more travel overall.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Staying at Mr. DeVere’s charming Cotswold cottage and to absorb the history in pure comfort made it the best trip to this part of England that I’ve ever had and I’ve been regularly traveling to the UK since I was a child.
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
Being able to stay in high-end luxury properties all over the world and to enjoy the local scene!
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
Much more like home. It makes traveling easier when you know you’ll have what you need available at your fingertips.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
If you want to expand your travel experiences and stay in some amazing places, do it through THIRDHOME!
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
John always loves The River Cafe in London and we have our favorite Indian restaurant there too. We were also recently in Sonoma for the holidays and had some memorable meals in Sonoma and Napa.
Any travel tips for fellow members?
We always pick up a Christmas ornament on our travels so we have a wonderful tree of memories!
Compared to other exchange and rental platforms, how has your experience been hosting other THIRDHOME members?
So far, nothing compares to the ease of use, quality of the properties and the overall value with THIRDHOME.
Based out of Park City, Utah, for the past 20 years, the Mazonne’s know a thing or two about luxury homes. Mike works in real estate in Park City, and through his relationships in the industry learned about THIRDHOME. Now the Mazzone family have the ability to trade their world-class ski weeks for stays around the globe. Get to know THIRDHOME members, Mike and Robin Mazzone!
Who do you usually travel with?
I usually travel with immediate family.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
My favorite travel hobbies are playing golf and diving.
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
My favorite destination was St. Maarten, through a TradeWinds yacht experience.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
I want to visit Cabo San Lucas in April.
Any personal/family achievements you’d like to share?
Time with our 12 and 15-year-old boys is priceless.
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
There is excitement in just knowing we can visit all these amazing places. Wandering the website is a stress relief!
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
Walking out to a beautiful surf beach in Punta Mita.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
It is an incredible opportunity.
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
Tuna Blanca in Punta de Mita
What makes a THIRDHOME stay so special?
The people.
How is staying in a THIRDHOME different than other types of accommodations?
You have room to roam.
Hit the fresh powder with these THIRDHOME Exclusive Stay ski weeks. Each exclusive stay pairs a THIRDHOME property, a ski resort, and rental services from Ski Butlers. Between their amazing customer service and the help of your personal concierge, your next vacation will be a breeze.
What can you expect from Ski Butlers? You will never lug around your ski gear again with Ski Butler rentals. They’ll fit you at your property, deliver the gear, and pick it up when you’re done from wherever you are. Operating in 37 North American ski resorts, Ski Butlers is available at your favorite ski destinations. Even better, book your Ski Butler service through THIRDHOME and get 10% off the price of your rentals.
Our Travel Concierge is ready to make your dream ski vacation a reality with these exclusive trips
Heavenly Hideaway | California
Get cozy around the fireplace at this elegant Lake Tahoe treehouse. From this amazing property, you’re only 8 blocks away from The Heavenly lift. With room to sleep 6 people, 3 and a half baths and 2,200 square feet, you’ll have plenty of room to spread out and enjoy your trip to Lake Tahoe. Get your gear fitted and delivered directly to the treehouse through Ski Butlers, and hit the slopes in no time. You can also arrange lift tickets, sleigh rides, snowmobile adventures, in-home private dinners, spa reservations and paddle-wheeler boat dinner on Lake Tahoe through your travel concierge. Click here to learn more about the Heavenly Hideaway Experience.
Park City Powder | Utah
Settle into one of the largest homes in Park City’s Old Town during your exclusive ski trip. This 4,400 square-foot home can easily host a party of 12 and can be your home base for an epic day on the slopes. It’s even located in the neighborhood that the stars call home during the Sundance Film Festival. The home features a gourmet kitchen, a Jacuzzi, game systems for the kids and easy access to all that Main Street has to offer. Within walking distance of Park City Mountain Resort, you’ll have no trouble getting to your favorite slopes from here. As always, Ski Butlers can show up right to your house to have you outfitted for the slopes. Your travel concierge can arrange lift tickets, sleigh rides, spa reservations, private dinners and much more for your Park City Powder adventure. Click here to learn more about the Park City Powder Experience.
Aspen Wonderland | Colorado
Shred Snowmass Mountain by day and stay at this Stunning Mountain Home by night. Within 10 minutes of all four Aspen ski mountains, this mountain home is perfect for skiing pros. This house can sleep 10 people, has four fireplaces, a gourmet kitchen, four master suites and a bunk room. There’s no reason to leave the house (besides skiing) when your gear can be delivered by Ski Butlers and your dinners and massages can be provided in-home. Spoil yourself with this decadent Snowmass Village getaway this ski season. Your travel concierge can arrange spa reservations, dinner reservations, dog sledding adventures, sleigh rides and so much more at your request. Click here to learn more about the Aspen Wonderland Experience.
Squaw Valley Views | California
Schuss like an Olympian at The Resort at Squaw Valley, site of the 1960 Winter Olympics. This AAA Four-Diamond resort overlooks the Sierra Nevada Mountains and offers access to both Squaw Valley and Alpine Meadows slopes. The residence can accommodate up to 4 people and is perfect for small family trips. The resort is also ski-in/ski out making for seamless transitions from skiing to relaxation. Again, you’ll never have to worry about your gear when you use Ski Butlers for your rental needs. Your travel concierge can arrange lift tickets, sleigh rides, dogsledding, in-home massages therapy, spa reservations and so much more. Book a hand-tailored ski trip for your family at Squaw Valley today. Click here to learn more about the Squaw Valley Views Experience.
THIRDHOME members since 2015, Scott and Carlene Leier learned about the club through a close friend. Their gorgeous property in San Jose del Cabo has garnered rave reviews from guests seeking an oceanside paradise. But as much as the Leier’s love their second home in Mexico, they’ve decided to use the club to seek out colder weather. Park City, Utah, and Vail, Colorado have been their destinations of choice. Learn more about the Leier family and their ski adventures below!
How did you get involved with THIRDHOME?
We were referred by a dear friend.
Where are you based?
Scottsdale, Canada, and San Jose del Cabo
Who do you usually travel with?
Our family.
What do you do for a living?
Scott is a hotelier and I’m a busy mom of four.
What are your favorite travel hobbies?
Skiing, golf, dining, and beach time!
In your past travels with THIRDHOME, what was your favorite destination and what did you love about it?
Deer Valley Lodge, [because] the prime location of the accommodations. Having small kids it was a dream to have ski-in and ski-out service daily. There were amazing restaurants in the area and lots to see and do.
What’s the next destination you are eyeing to travel to with THIRDHOME?
We currently don’t have anything booked but we’re hoping to hit the slopes again this year!
What do you love most about your property with THIRDHOME?
[We love the] location and view! We are in a gated community with an amazing view of the city and ocean. The best beaches are just minutes away. We also take great pride in our amazing staff that will take care of all our guests’ needs when they visit!
How has THIRDHOME changed the way you travel?
Due to the fact that we have four kids, traveling to well-known destinations could be pricey! We would require multiple hotel rooms, and would not be able to all stay in the same room. THIRDHOME has allowed our large family to take vacations and our family can be comfortable together in first-class accommodations.
What is the nicest amenity you have encountered while staying at a THIRDHOME property?
[The] ski-in and ski-out [access] and the staff at The Deer Valley Club.
How would you describe THIRDHOME to a friend?
An opportunity to travel in a way that is safe and unique. You never have to worry about having a bad guest as everyone is more or less used to traveling at the same level and has their own home in the pot!
What’s the most memorable restaurant you’ve eaten at during one of your trips?
The Jean George’s restaurant in the St Regis Hotel [Deer Valley, Utah].
Any travel tips for fellow members?
Be certain to ask all the questions as to what is included with your home!
The Chateaux Deer Valley, a THIRDHOME Affiliate since 2013, is one of Park City, Utah’s most beautiful mountain properties. Located within steps of the world-renowned Deer Valley Resort, The Chateaux Deer Valley offers luxurious accommodations with premier access to Deer Valley’s coveted ski slopes. Not only is skiing easily accessible (a 3-minute walk away), the historic mining town of Park City is only a short 3 miles away. Make The Chateaux Deer Valley a part of your winter vacation plans.
Find out why members love playing and staying at The Chateaux Deer Valley.
The Chateaux Deer Valley sits in one of Utah’s top tourist destinations, Park City. Many members already know the city for its impeccable skiing, but fewer know that Park City is home to the Sundance Film Festival. Moreover, the area is home to plenty of outdoor recreation besides skiing. Nearby hot springs, hiking trails and biking trails keep travelers visiting year-round. And what better place to take on the wonders of Park City than the illustrious The Chateaux Deer Valley?
Upon entering the grand lobby of The Chateaux Deer Valley, guests are assisted by thoughtful and well-experienced front desk staff. Their role, as well as the role of the entire staff, is to ensure that each guest has a uniquely luxurious stay at The Chateaux Deer Valley.
The only thing warmer than the crackling hearths found in each suite and the lobby, are the smiles you’ll receive from each The Chateaux Deer Valley staff member. There’s nothing quite as welcoming as the intimate embers and beaming faces you’ll find during your Park City stay.
The 4-bedroom luxury suites are perfect for large families, groups or business retreats. With 2,700 square feet of space, there’s plenty of room to spread out, make yourself at home and store your gear. Chateaux Deer Valley offers ski storage (winter season) and bike storage (summer season) to help maximize your living space.
Each bedroom has its very own bathroom, gas fireplace, flat screen television and king bed. Each suite also has a queen murphy bed or sofa bed for extra sleeping space. Each suite can accommodate up to 12 people.
Don’t have ski gear? Not a problem, get outfitted for your skiing excursion at The Chateaux Deer Valley’s onsite retail shop, Ski ‘N See. Carrying your gear is a breeze with staffed concierge and bell service (winter season only). Take a shuttle, or walk the short distance to the nearest ski lifts to start your day. Don’t sweat the difficult parts of ski travel, The Chateaux Deer Valley has you covered, so you can spend more time careening down the face of Bald Mountain.
In summer or winter, you’ll be able to relax in the comfort of The Chateaux Deer Valley’s outdoor hot tubs and heated pool. A full-service spa is also available to work out any of that post-ski leg strain. Le Spa Chateaux offers a variety of skin treatments, deep tissue massage options and nail care options. You will, undoubtedly, be relaxing as much as you play during your Deer Valley adventure.
The Chateaux Deer Valley is also home to the award-winning Cena Ristorante & Lounge, featuring Italian cuisine and stunning views of Deer Valley. Start with the Mushroom Ragout Bruschetta, ease into the Cioppino & Cappellini, and finish with the scrumptious gelato. Each dish is a discovery at Cena Ristorante & Lounge.
Breakfast buffets are also served daily from 7:00 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. Remember, if you ski enough, the calories don’t count.
Whether it be for a romantic getaway, a family ski trip, a group cycling trip or a mixture of any of the aforementioned, The Chateaux Deer Valley has all of the amenities you’ll need to make your stay an unforgettable experience. Between the adventure, relaxation and fine dining you’ll see why THIRDHOME members love staying with The Chateaux Deer Valley.
Click here to browse available weeks at The Chateaux Deer Valley.