Review: 1 Posted: 02/25/10
From: Canada Stevens in Canada

Dear Steph- As life has now settled back into a regular routine since the holidays, I wanted to take a moment to write to you. I wanted to thank you all so much for the truly amazing family vacation we had. As I think you know, I had been secretly hoping to come to Vista Verde for a number of years, originally in the summertime, and I was finally able to convince Mike that I thought he really would enjoy a ranch vacation, and he didn't have to get on a horse if he didn't want to! Well, he did get on a horse, Roman, and has told several tales about his riding. But more than that, it was a time when all of us were in a situation where we experienced things for the first time, together, and that was really neat. We felt so well taken care of, in really good hands, for everything we decided to try. The staff is so incredibly accommodating and knowledgeable, and made it all such fun. We loved the meals the food is divine, and the camaraderie of meal time. I can't say enough about how wonderful the ranch is, and have intrigued many of our friends---you may find yourself with more Canadians! I will follow the blog once more so that I can stay connected with all that is going on--keep up the great work!! A warm Canadian hello to all at the ranch, and thanks, we will never forget our vacation, and hope to be back again (maybe for a summertime visit). Fond wishes, The Stevens

Review: 2 Posted: 01/27/10
From: Christy Bennett in Meridian, MS

I am not sure that words can describe how wonderful Vista Verde really is. This was our families first "real winter" vacation in true snow, so when we came to the ranch we didn't really know what to expect. From the moment that we arrived at the airport, the Vista Verde staff began treating us to a week of luxury. Our cabin was wonderful, the lodge was fantastic, the staff - oh my word~~!! The chefs prepared food that was incredible each and every meal of the day, which by the way, was included. My children immediatly made friends with the staff and guest, and after that it was hard to keep them around. Everyone felt as if we were at home. The activites that the ranch offered were unlimited and neverending. Since we left the ranch the friendships that we made at the ranch have continued and we plan to all meet up again soon with our next visit back to the ranch! Thanks Vista Verde for making such wonderful memories!

Review: 3 Posted: 09/13/09
From: Jim & Wanda Willis in Gastonia, North Carolina

My husband and I spent weeks searching the web for a ranch where we could ride horses in the snow. We found more than we could ever have wished for at Vista Verde. We had our first experience at snow shoeing...track skiing..back country skiing..snowmobiling..and the ranch provided instruction and guides to take us anywhere on the wonderful ranch or provided transportation into town. The cabins were amazing with hot tubs outside to watch the horses in the winter pasture...the food would have to be tasted to be believed; again, a new experience: we tried game, fish and desserts that we had never tried here in the South. Every day the phrase you heard most was " we can make it happen" and they did. We have met people from all over the world. We have gone 3 years during adult weeks and one week during President's week with the kids there and it was all amazing. No big crowds, no long lines, just lots of attention and lots of things to do.

Review: 4 Posted: 06/28/07
From: Bruce G in Boca Raton,Fl

My wife and I have visited Vista Verde several times during "adult" week and always had a great time. This year we deceided to bring our daughter and son in- law and 2 grandchildren age 31/2 and 10. It was an incredible experience for all of us. My wife and I ride every day and the wranglers, horses and ability to ride where and when you want is fantastic. Our kids went riding, but also rock climbed, fly fished and mountain biked. The little ones were always involved in "adventure" activities, and had the best time with the kid wranglers who kept them busy till after the adult dinner. The evening entertainment included a square dance, a musical show (rock & roll) an awards campfire and the highlight was the pro rodeo in Steamboat. The staff caters to your every need from activities to meals and a homemade birthday cake. If you are trying to deceide where to take your ranch trip, this is the place. They say it's a combination of ranchy and fancy and it is. We will all be back next June and can't wait.

Review: 5 Posted: 03/27/07
From: Carole Shifman in Chicago, IL

Vista Verde Ranch consistently provides one of the best vacation experiences I've ever had. It's located in gorgeous country outside of Steamboat Springs, Colorado. But even more important, Vista Verde is the perfect combination of service, luxury and low key attitude. Private cabins are furnished with antiques, handmade log furniture and private outdoor hot tubs. They also come with a coffee maker, wine, a refrigerator stocked with drinks and snacks -- not that you'll need them! Food at Vista Verde is superb and plentiful. Every meal offers something delicious to eat, and if you don't see what you want, chances are good the kitchen will cheerfully prepare it for you. Dinners are three course events with wine, interesting starters, a choice of entrees and desserts. Service at Vista Verde is incredible. The day starts with staff asking what you'd like to do that day and then finding a way to make it happen. Winter activity options run the gamut from cross country track and skate skiing to backcountry treks that get you way out in the wilderness. Trips are guided and tailored to your skill level. Lessons are always available and are often private. Plus, there's always downhill skiing at Steamboat Mountain, dog sledding, snowmobiling trips, sledding on the ranch, sleigh rides and so much more. The biggest challenge is that there isn't enough daylight or energy to do everything. Summer at Vista Verde offers a similarly wide range of activity choices, And if you have any energy left, there are also night activities such as country western dancing. Even with all this, Vista Verde is relaxed and laid back. The other guests are usually friendly, warm and interesting. Vista Verde is one of the most fun, most relaxing, most active vacations I've ever had. I can't recommend it highly enough.

Review: 6 Posted: 01/12/07
From: David in Dallas, Texas

Our family of five recently visited Vista Verde for the Christmas week. We have been to several dude ranches but never during the winter. We were a bit hesitant to leave our home during the holidays but took a chance. We were very pleased with our decision. Everything at Vista Verde is first class - the accommodations, the staff, the food, the service, the activities and the setting. Literally, we felt as if whatever we wanted to do was accommodated. Our children range from age 5-12 - all of their interests were met. We had never cross country skied before but were given expert lessons and were exploring the Elk River back country by the end of our trip with the help of an expert Vista Verde guide. And the food! Every meal was absolutely wonderful and even those of us without exotic tastes were accomodated in every way possible. This is a fantastic place to vacation if you are looking for a great family experience in a gorgeous outdoor setting with a wonderful staff to make it all happen. We can't wait to return.

Review: 7 Posted: 02/02/05
From: Robin in Woodside, CA

We visited during the summer of 2004 with our two teenage children. We chose VVR because of the many activities offered and the teen program. Our kids were skeptical of this vacation, but pleaded that we rebook after our week there because they had such a great time. It's well worth the price because the staff takes care of your every desire and there is so much to do. We can't wait to go back to see all the friends we made there!

Review: 8 Posted: 09/06/00
From: msmith in New Jersey

With our two children aged 6 and 9 we spent the most wonderful week in late August. Vista Verde is staffed by fabulous folks and the beautiful setting and attentive service combined to make our trip the most memeorable ever.

Review: 9 Posted: 01/10/00
From: Lee in Atlanta, GA

Visited in the Fall of 94 for the cattle drive. Very friendly staff, incredible food and comfortable cabins. Great riding, hiking, and rock climbing. Would definitely return.Fun group activites, line dancing, guest 'rodeo', volleyball. Great weather in September.