A nice introduction to skiing in Colorado, Breckenridge is a former mining town that has developed into an attractive ski resort. This friendly, relaxed Colorado ski resort is framed by a breathtaking view of four surrounding peaks. Much of the original architecture remains, whilst new buildings have been added in a similar style, giving Breckenridge a traditional charm. The whole resort sits significantly high above sea level, making snow conditions excellent. Although some people may struggle with the rapid change in air pressure, altitude sickness is sometimes reported, Breckenridge certainly benefits from its location. Off the slopes, there are plenty of alternative activities to enjoy here - all in view of the beautiful surrounding peaks. Après ski offered in Breckenridge is amongst the best in the area - eating out is particularly good and supremely varied.
Breckenridge is excellent for those learning to ski. The wide and gentle beginner slopes have been groomed with the aim of instilling confidence in all novice skiers and snowboarders. Beginners can choose to ski on the lower parts of Peaks 8 or 9 and, thanks to the generally high altitude, will be learning on good quality snow. Breckenridge has a superb reputation for snowboarding with three highly regarded terrain parks to choose from. Beginners will love the specially designed Swinger Terrain Park on Peak 8.
Breckenridge offers some relaxed blue runs on Peak 9, and some pretty, tree-lined runs on Peaks 7 and 8. These make for a great day of relaxed cruising. Keen intermediates will want to progress on to the tougher blue/black runs spread across Peaks 8, 9 and 10. And both budding free riders and skiers will want to try out the Gold King Terrain Park on Peak 9.
Over half of the pistes in Breckenridge are classified black diamond or double black diamond in difficulty. Terrain is limited but challenging here. The lifts are good and will take you almost all the way to the wonderful powder-filled bowls at the peaks. Breckenridge also offers a lot of testing mogul skiing. The Freeway Terrain Park, on Peak 8, features an award winning 90 metre Super Pipe and an impressive selection of table tops and spines.
The ski school and childcare facilities in Breckenridge are excellent. The ski schools are praised for a positive, fun approach to teaching and helping children develop quickly. The two children's centres care for children from 2 months to 5 years old and are located on Peak 8 and Peak 9. Families with children keen to ski will find Breckenridge an excellent choice.
Breckenridge village is as high above sea level as some ski resorts' highest peak, so You won't be surprised to find that snow quality and reliability is superb here. The highest peak is just shy of 4000 metres, with lift access to 3700 metres, meaning you will need to be aware of breathlessness when skiing the long verticals.
Breckenridge offers a huge choice of cuisine to enjoy after a long day on the slopes. American, Asian, Italian, Mexican and Japanese food can all be found in the plethora of different restaurants available. And new restaurants are constantly being opened in Breckenridge - though Café Alpine and the River Walk Café are two firm favourites. There are plenty of lively après ski bars and some serve food as well. Mi Casa, Park Avenue Pub and Bubba Gump's - the view from the heated sun deck is particularly breathtaking here - all have a friendly and fun atmosphere. For live music and dancing late into the night, the very centre of Breckenridge offers countless bars, pubs and nightclubs to enjoy.
130 km (approximately 2 hours transfer). British Airways flies direct to Denver from London Heathrow.
