Since 1918, the Broadmoor Hotel has become synonymous with splendor and luxury. Set on 3,000 pristine acres with spectacular views of Cheyenne Mountain, this property is an ideal place for a weekend get-away or romantic vacation.
The history of this historic property is as interesting as the famous people who have stayed here over the years including King Hussein of Jordon, the King of Siam, Margaret Thatcher, Presidents Hoover and Roosevelt (Franklyn D), Clark Gable, Charles Lindbergh and John Wayne.
After amassing a fortune from gold and copper mining, Philadelphia entrepreneur Spencer Penrose purchased what was previously the Broadmoor Casino and Hotel. He turned it into one of the world’s most beautiful resorts, then and now. Inspired by the Italian Renaissance, Penrose used artisans from Italy and Europe to create a carved marble fountain, Della Robbia-style floor tiles, hand-painted trimming and ornate chandeliers in the main lobby.
Penrose’s style and architectural flair were only matched by his marketing prowess. He predicted the onslaught of prospectors to Pike’s Peak, a small gold-filled mountain nearby, and built a road leading to its summit. Until then the area was only accessible by foot or the Cog Railway. He was also responsible for the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo, a huge draw for Colorado Springs and the Broadmoor.
The Broadmoor has won so many awards over the years it is hard to keep track of them. Both Mobile and AAA have given this property its highest award for decades. One of the reasons for this is the lavish attention to detail incorporated into guest accommodations.
Each room comes with high-thread count bed linens, plush, contemporary furniture, flat screen televisions, signature toiletries and five-fixture bathrooms. Friendly and attentive staff, impeccable service as well as views of Cheyenne Lake and Mountain just add to the Broadmoor experience.
The Broadmoor resembles a sprawling university campus, with several buildings and guest towers built around Cheyenne Lake. A water complex and swimming pool are adjacent to the main building. The compound’s lawns, flowers and meandering walkways are meticulously manicured.
With 25 specialty shops, 6 tennis courts, 54 holes of championship golf, 3 swimming pools, a movie theater, 18 restaurants, cafes and lounges, there’s no reason to leave the property.
Two notable culinary classics: The Penrose Room and Charles Court have been recognized by many prestigious culinary publications like Wine Spectator and Zagat’s Guide.
For total indulgence, experience Colorado’s only Forbes Mobil Travel Guide rated Five Star Spa at the Broadmoor. With 43,000 square feet of harmonious treatments ranging from wine therapy sugar scrubs to a 18-shower head hydrotherapy service that evokes the feeling of being in a cascading waterfall.
The Broadmoor offers a variety of vacation packages available at various times throughout the year. For more information, visit their website at www.broadmoor.com.
(Note: All accommodations and meals originally provided for this story were sponsored by the Broadmoor Hotel).