Staycation Babymoon at the Gaylord Rockies Resort
As we get down to the wire with “Baby G” I’m finding that I’m running out of time faster than I can get things done. Between changing jobs and moving, this third trimester has been full of running around. I knew that there was no way either Steve or myself would be able to escape for an elaborate babymoon (Not that I have the energy or breathe to do much these days anyway). But I did know that I wanted a couple of days just to relax somewhere and enjoy these last baby-free weeks. Last year, around the holidays, Steve and I had the opportunity to staycation at the Gaylord Rockies Resort and LOVED it! It truly felt like a luxury getaway. It was the perfect place for a two-day babymoon!
We arrived the first night and I have to say, every time I walk into this place it truly takes my breathe away with the giant windows overlooking the mountains and Denver region. The rooms are beautiful and everything really does make you feel like you’re a world away. Our first stop was meant to be dinner but the resort was definitely WAY busier than we had visited the year before and with six conferences in town we couldn’t get into any restaurants. I did discover the next night that their website makes it SUPER easy to reserve the restaurant of your choice and then I had no issues so definitely remember to make reservations. But we had a wonderful random room-service meal with food from different locations.
The next day, Steve had to go back to work and my true solo staycation began. While I would have loved to have a romantic babymoon, I have to say, there are SO many benefits to taking this time for yourself and truly enjoying some relaxing self-care and solo time. Also, hello big bed to myself! Here are a few ways to treat yourself on your babymoon.
Prenatal Massage
Gaylord Rockies is home to Relâche Spa offering a wide variety of spa treatments. Their mother-to-be massage was the best way to start my day of relaxation. I recommend arriving early and taking advantage of the spa amenities like the Rocky Mountain Rain Shower, the Aromatic Steam Room (not one that I recommend pregnant but I’ll be back), and the relaxation lounge with it’s fireplace and complimentary drinks.
Arapahoe Springs Pools
Gaylord Rockies Resort has both an indoor and outdoor pool area complete with waterslides and a lazy river. While I cannot wait to bring “Baby G” back for a family staycation when he can enjoy all of these amenities, for my babymoon, I enjoyed a private cabana poolside. The private service was nice to not have to walk back and forth to Arapahoe Springs Bar and Grill for food and drinks (trust me by week 32 any sort of walking gets annoying). Swimming is also an amazing exercise and way to relax from carrying the extra weight. I enjoyed a nap outside in the Colorado sun and it was incredibly peaceful.
Dining Options
One of my favorite things about Gaylord Rockies Resort is the variety of places to eat. It almost felt like being on a cruise ship with it’s diversity of restaurant options. In the main lounge area, there are loads of casual dining options like Mile High Pizza Station or Ski Village Cantina. Pinyons Bar is an awesome hangout spot as well and, when you’re not pregnant, they offer incredible cocktails and seasonal drinks!
As for restaurants, there are four main options; Mountain Pass Sports Bar with it’s wall of tv’s to enjoy your favorite game on, Old Hickory Steakhouse for a fine dining experience, Monte Jade for asian-inspired meals, and Vista Montagne for a casual Italian dining experience. I truly wish I had more nights here to try them all but I will absolutely be back. Just remember to make a reservation to avoid a long wait time if the resort is really busy.
Work With a View
Now I know, technically a babymoon is a time to relax and NOT work but that’s not always a luxury we can afford and I would rather work from a swanky hotel and still get a “vacation” then to stay at home because I have to work. I am fortunate enough to work remotely and the Gaylord Rockies is an amazing hotel to work from. The fireside lounges make working feel like a mountain cabin experience and the many tables around the grand lounge make it easy to find places to work from. Rockies Marketplace is a great place to grab a Starbucks and a snack and find your own work haven.
Events and More
One of the great things about the Gaylord Rockies Resort is that there is always something going on…or not. You truly do get to choose the kind of vacation you want to have here. From seasonal events like ICE! or theTrick or Treat Expedition to scavenger hunts, wine and cheese pairing events, poolside movies and more, there is so much entertainment year-round. OR you can indulge in the spa, cabanas, fireside lounges, and find a way to have a relaxing escape. I love that every time I come back to visit, I can have a completely different experience here. The best reason to staycation, is to find a place like the Gaylord Rockies that can become your go-to destination.
Whether your babymoon includes flying around the world or exploring your own backyard, make sure to take this time to breathe in the moments (as best you can with limited lung capacity these days) and indulge as much as possible. With your partner or spending a few days of self-care and solo time to yourself is there perfect way to relax before baby comes. And if you’re in Denver, definitely check out the Gaylord Rockies Resort!