The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch

We had the pleasure of working with Christopher Beeson at the Ritz-Carlton Beaver Creek, and it was truly the best part of our trip. From the start, Christopher impressed us with his talent, warmth, and professionalism. He was incredibly engaging with our 11-month-old son, Leo—no small feat when photographing a baby! His calm presence and genuine connection with children made the entire experience enjoyable and stress-free. Christopher knew the best locations around the property and guided us on a thoughtfully planned route that maximized scenery and lighting. He gave us sneak peeks throughout the shoot that boosted our excitement about the photos. He even shared insider tips—like how elk appear on a nearby trail each evening at 7pm. That’s the kind of special local knowledge that made the morning feel even more magical. By the end of our session, we chose to purchase more photos than we had originally planned—not just because the images were stunning, but because of the experience Christopher created. It was the first time since having our son that we felt truly reconnected as a family. Christopher—thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You gave us memories we’ll cherish forever. Please keep doing what you do. — Laura, Jeff & baby Leo

Best bartenders we’ve come across in a long time! Hubby & I have been in hospitality for over 45 years and my hubby runs lots of Hotels and Restaurants in CO. Nathan & Anna at the bar outside, were phenomenal…engaging in convo, kind, on top of everything, and just plain lovely! We’ll be back in the Winter with our family!

This is the fourth or fifth time that we have stayed at this property. Over the course of the time since they first opened, the property has gone very downhill. I am not sure exactly what happened but this past month when we stayed there it was very disappointing. It had a not a Ritz experience on any way. We have also stayed at the Sonnenalp hotel in Vail and at several other properties, including the Four Seasons. At this point, the Ritz is just not standing up to the others. The swimming pool did not seem overly clean. There was even one woman changing her baby’s diapers on the edge of the pool and putting the baby back into the pool and no one looked at that. If you exited the spa and came out to the pool, you were immediately locked out of the hotel and would have had to have your key with you to get back in unless you wanted to walk around through a restaurant or lobby area. There were no spa attendance to advise you or help you to get back into the spa. We complained about these things to the management and no one even called to check in with us or apologize. We had the feeling that most of the personnel were very young and very new. When we checked in and when we checked out and at every point in between including at the club lounge, people did not know what was going on. For example, one morning in the club lounge, we asked if we could get breakfast downstairs and the nice young lady told us that there would be no breakfast in the hotel. We doubted that and walked downstairs and yes, there was a normal breakfast both indoors and outdoors. So no one seemed to know what they were doing and nobody could really help you. In every possible way it was disappointing and we will not be going back there again.If you have the choice, I would definitely recommend Sonnenalp or Four Seasons more in the center of Vail, where you have the option to walk around and visit other restaurants and other dining options.

Don’t get the Asian chicken salad The pool food was expensive and fell short each time we ordered something. The Asian chicken salad was $33 and was cabbage with a pile fried onions, and a single piece of chicken. If you’re charging those prices, maybe make sure the food is good? We did have excellent service when we walked out of the pool to the fireside bar. Nathan was incredible!

We recently stayed at the resort. Throughout our stay, the public spaces—from the lounge to the restaurant—were crowded with guests primarily focused on a lively social scene rather than relaxation. While there is certainly a place for that atmosphere, it was not balanced with spaces designed for tranquility or a more curated experience. The staff were courteous in a perfunctory way but lacked the attentiveness and anticipation of needs that distinguish exceptional hospitality. For instance, when I inquired about spa services at 6:00 p.m. on a Monday, no one was available to assist, and the front desk offered little more than an invitation to return the next day. At a resort positioning itself as a property comparbale to the Four Seasons, one expects a knowledgeable team empowered to provide clear information and proactive solutions without delay. Service across the board felt reactive rather than genuinely guest-focused. The front desk, which sets the tone for the entire stay, did not demonstrate the warmth or efficiency that typically defines luxury accommodations. Those seeking a serene retreat should also be aware that there is no dedicated adult pool, and the main pool area is consistently active with families and children. Housekeeping was similarly inconsistent, and the guest rooms did not convey the meticulous attention to detail or sense of calm that are hallmarks of the world’s best hotels. While the property has potential, it lacks the thoughtful touches and refined service culture that create a truly memorable experience beyond naming dropping that you stayed at the Ritz Carlton. Ultimately, guests should feel genuinely welcomed and cared for, not simply processed.