Relax as you snuggle under the blankets in a bright red sleigh, pulled by huge black draft horses.
This sleigh ride isn’t exactly “running through the snow.” It’s a leisurely, scenic jog through the Colorado mountains, on the way to an old log cabin, where a fine dinner is served to the tune of Johnny Cash.
Welcome to BearCat Stables, one of Colorado’s most fantastic treasures tucked away in the Vail Valley.
BearCat is a must-have for any Colorado travel list, whether you’re just passing through, staying (and skiing) in nearby Beaver Creek (just 15 minutes away), or settling down at the nearby luxury Lodge and Spa in Cordillera. , a gated golf community.
The BearCat property has a solid reputation and is considered one of the best stables in the region. The last owner, Ellis “Bearcat” Bearden (hence the name), sold the ranch to Cordillera in the 1990s. Today, it has been renovated to function, but retains a lot of quirky charm. Visitors can tour and take photos in two of the original cabins.
BearCat has a fascinating history dating back to the turn of the century, and visitors will learn all about it on guided sleigh rides that run throughout the winter.
Two of the regular workhorses you can find leading the sleigh are Percherons, a gentle, friendly breed that (believe it or not) bigger and stronger, pound for pound, than a Clydesdale. These horses weigh over 2,300 pounds and, with their thick coats, are ideal for winter outdoor activities. They also understand voice commands and are extremely smart.
Percherons will calmly pose for photos with visitors of any age and won’t be scared off by a flashlight.
The sled winds its way through the BearCat property, past historic buildings and into the open space and hills of the Squaw Creek Valley. Animals such as moose, deer, and hawks abound here, even in winter.
Planning a special occasion? The 15-person sled can also be rented for a private trip.
After the relaxing ride, head back to the cabin for dinner hosted by TimberHearth in Cordillera.
The three-course dinner is served in the original Bearden Homestead, which dates back to the early 1900s, and was completely restored by the Cordillera Preservation Foundation and the stables.
Although the food itself is casual, buffet-style, served on round wooden tables in a small dining area that feels very homey, don’t expect your barbecue and refried beans to be served on paper plates.
The food is some of the most delicious in the state. His favorite staples, such as short ribs (served with a red wine cabernet sauvignon au jus with roasted chablis onions), vegetable pie (filled with peas, celery, carrots, and veggie veloute in a pie crust), and soups, are experts. prepared. Prepare to be amazed.
The meal begins with an organic mixed green salad with white balsamic vinaigrette, feta cheese, red onion, tomatoes, and cucumbers. Also look for a roasted Boulder chicken breast with herbs and black pepper sauce. Also, enjoy roasted fingerling potatoes with herbs and seasonal vegetables.
Kids will be delighted with the special kids menu, which includes kid-friendly classics like mac and cheese, chicken wings, and a fruit platter. (OK, adults can gravitate towards this too.)
Make sure to save room for dessert – a super rich bread pudding served with cinnamon brioche and chocolate ganache frosting.
Warm up with wine, local beer, hot chocolate, or hot toddy; The property has a full bar.
After the meal, the guests are invited to gather around the fire pit and make S’mores, under the starry sky.
BearCat also offers guided horseback riding, carriage rides, a four-day cabin trip from Vail to Aspen, and various field and camping packages.
