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Fun Ways to Celebrate Labor Day in Colorado

Labor Day Weekend: It's summer's last hurrah, for many, and it's also one of the best reasons to schedule a stay as an Owner at Dancing Bear Aspen's luxury residence homes or at The Timbers Club in Snowmass.

From action at the net to wild times on the stage, all staying at Timbers Resorts' properties in the Roaring Fork Valley are in for an absolute treat this August 30 to September 2. Here's a rundown of what's hot and what's not to miss. 

Motherlode Volleyball Classic

Time was, Labor Day could be a little low-key around Aspen. Then, in 1972, a few of our local business folk put together the first Motherlode Volleyball Classic. Since then, in the span of 40 years, it's become one of the most popular doubles volleyball tournaments of its kind.

As many as 700 teams compete, men and women of all ages, from all over the world, fighting (as good sports) for the tourney's championship titles. Come see the proving ground for future AVP players. Join an after-match party in town, or duck back to Dancing Bear Aspen for a bit of bubbly and a cool dunk in the pool. First serve at the net is on Thursday.

Want to take your own shot at the tourney? Pre-registration takes place through August 20 at the Motherlode website.

Jazz Aspen Snowmass Labor Day Festival 

The tunes kick off on Friday, with nothing less than a full-on set from the Steve Miller Band. As you can tell, already, the Jazz Aspen fest is cut from broader cloth than its namesake. Since 1991, the folks at JAS have been bringing jazz, yes, but also all kinds of related music to these mountains.

This is its 22nd season and it turns Snowmass Town Park into a party for 72 hours. Be sure to catch the following big names:

Friday August 31: Don't miss Steve Miller. Saturday, September 1: Mumford & Sons bring their rootsy, banjo-inflected tunes to Aspen. Sunday September 2: Talk about polar opposites! You get the Southern rap-rock of Kid Rock, but also don't miss the idea-heavy (and sometimes political, but always progressive) world jams of Michael Franti and Spearhead.Enjoy your Labor Day. As always, touch base with your Dancing Bear Aspen concierge with any questions or for help in setting up your weekend. We'll see you in all the action!

For more information about Timbers Resorts, contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone, 888.366.6641.

Timbers Resorts’ Sleek Outdoor Gathering Spaces

No matter how beautiful the rooms and residences at Timbers Resorts properties are, you'll want to venture beyond them on gorgeous sunny days. That’s why no effort was spared in making the resorts’ outdoor gathering spaces spectacular places to sun and socialize or sip a cocktail and cozy up with that special someone.

For example, the roof of Dancing Bear Aspen, designed by Shayne Smith of Shayne Interior Design Group, incorporates revolving beds with removable canopies. Put the roof down and rotate to face the sun and get a tan or put the roof up for a bit of shade and privacy. The rest of the roof includes a variety of lounge areas as well as floating fireplaces, bars, two Japanese soaking tubs and, of course, a Jacuzzi.

For a more classic Colorado experience, you might want to opt for One Steamboat Place, designed by J. Banks Design Group whose work graces many properties in Timbers Resorts' portfolio, where the social scene revolves around the firepits. Curl up with a book during the day, warm up with hot chocolate or an après ski cocktail around happy hour, and then roast s’mores after the sun goes down.

Does a few glasses of Napa Valley wine get your competitive juices flowing? At The Orchard at The Carneros Inn you may have so much fun playing bocce in the courtyard outside the resort's acclaimed restaurant FARM that you forget there’s a table and delicious "farm-to-table" cuisine waiting for you inside. After you tear yourself away from bocce, have a post-dinner glass of wine in the cozy chairs around the fireplace on the outdoor patio.

Poolside or beachside at any Timbers Resorts property is the perfect place to enjoy the atmosphere either solo or while striking up a conversation with friends or fellow Owners. The pool terrace at Castello di Casole's boutique hotel offers exquisite views of the Tuscan countryside, as well as canopied tents and lounges for total relaxation. Esperanza Resort offers a series of pools on all levels of the property with chaises-lounges, terraces, sculptures and water features.

When The Beach Club at The Preserve at Botany Bay debuts in 2013, head down a winding path through palm trees and ruins to access the infinity pool and beach bordered by chic private cabanas.

For more information about Timbers Resorts, contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone, 888.366.6641.

Five of our Favorite Mountain Climbing Books

As you come in for a landing in Colorado en route to one of the Timbers Resorts private residence clubs like One Steamboat Place, The Sebastian - Vail, The Timbers Club in Snowmass or Dancing Bear Aspen, you can’t help but fall in love with the breathtaking views of the Rocky Mountains. Therefore, it’s only fitting that you take along some of the world’s best mountain climbing books, which provide awe-inspiring looks into the danger and glory of climbing the world’s highest peaks. Here are five of our favorites:

Into Thin Air by Jon Krakauer
Into Thin Air has been one of the most popular books about climbing Mount Everest for more than a decade. The book is the author’s account of successfully summitting the world’s highest mountain while examining what mistakes led to five fellow climbers losing their lives. These events in May 1996 have become a significant part of Everest’s history and lore. Guide Anatoli Boukreev wrote a competing account of the events, The Climb, after taking exception to Krakauer’s portrayal of him. Be warned though — once you start this book, you won't be able to put it down until you've finished it. Timbers Resorts tie-in: Neal Beidleman who was a guide on the famed 1996 climb is an Aspen, Colorado, resident and friend to Timbers Resorts.

No Shortcuts to the Top: Climbing the World's 14 Highest Peaks by David Roberts and Ed Viesturs
There are only 14 mountains on the planet higher that 8,000 meters, and mountaineering legend Ed Viesturs set out to climb all of them without the aid of bottled oxygen. It took Viesturs 18 years to accomplish the task before publishing this memoir in 2007. To be inspired by one of the world’s most incredible achievements (and men) No Shortcuts to the Top is the perfect vacation read. Timbers Resorts tie-in: In 2008, One Steamboat Place brought Viesturs to town for a slideshow presentation from his 8,000-meter peak quest, which drew a full house at the Community Center. Ski mountaineer Chris Davenport of Aspen, Colorado, opened the presentation with an account from his "Ski the 14ers" project where he skied all 54 of Colorado's 14,000-foot peaks in a record-setting time of one year.

Annapurna: The First Conquest of an 8,000-Meter Peak by Maurice Herzog and Conrad Anker
Annapurna claims the life of more than half of those who attempt to reach its summit. Not only is it 8,100 meters high, but the approach is one of the most treacherous in the Himalayas. All of this makes the tale of the men who reached Annapurna’s top for the first time in 1950 – without oxygen or modern climbing equipment – all the more amazing. This book is Maurice Herzog’s account of the climb, dictated from his hospital bed after barely escaping the mountain with his life. Timbers Resorts tie-in: Conrad Anker was the keynote speaker at the 2010 5Point Film Festival sponsored by Timbers Resorts in our hometown of Carbondale, Colorado.

Miracle in the Andes: 72 Days on the Mountain and My Long Trek Home by Nando Parrado and Vince Rause
On October 13 1972, a plane crashed in the Andes carrying 45 people including a Chilean rugby team. After being unconscious for three days then waiting for a rescue that never came, Nando Parrado led a group of survivors 45 miles through the Andes to find help, then lived to tell the tale.

Savage Summit: The True Stories of the First Five Women Who Climbed K2, the World's Most Feared Mountain by Jennifer Jordan
K2 is not as high as Everest, but it's far more dangerous. At the time this book was published in 2005, only six women had reached its summit, compared to Everest’s 90. Three died on the way back down. Jennifer Jordan tells the stories of these courageous women.

Got a favorite arm-chair mountaineering book we didn't list? Share it with us in the comments section below.

For more information about Timbers Resorts, contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone, 888.366.6641.

Take A Video Tour of Dancing Bear Aspen

Set in the heart of town, Dancing Bear Aspen is an exquisitely sophisticated, artfully decorated and endlessly seductive Private Residence Club. The décor and amenities surprise at every turn, from a private movie theater to the spectacular mountain-view rooftop lounge. Dancing Bear Aspen is quintessentially Aspen, and undeniably "One-of-a-Kind."

Take a video tour of the property and discover all that it has to offer...

To discover the exquisite lifestyle at Dancing Bear Aspen, visit our site, stop by our Sales Gallery at 411 South Monarch Street in Aspen, or contact us via phone at 970.925.2510 or via email at [email protected].

 

Falling for Aspen

Autumn in Aspen is a spectacular season to relish all that this international destination has to offer. As the leaves on the trees transition from green to gold, enjoy the stunning natural beauty on the hillsides and surrounding town.  Throughout September and October, the rivers are prime for fly-fishing; trails beckon for hiking, biking and horseback adventures; and restaurants offer prix fixe menus with attentive service – all intriguing reasons to plan a visit to this special mountain town, home to Dancing Bear Aspen.

To discover the exquisite lifestyle at Dancing Bear Aspen, visit our site, stop by our Sales Gallery at 411 South Monarch Street in Aspen, or contact us via phone at 970.925.2510 or via email at [email protected].

A Night at The Museum – San Jose

Timbers Resorts' affinity for The Arts can be traced through our properties' designs and decor, temporary exhibitions and permanent collections, culinary programs and special menus, vineyards and wine production, and more. With a nod to the artistic lifestyle, Timbers Resorts hosted a reception at The San Jose Museum of Art on Thursday, September 27, for Owners, guests and friends. This unique art museum in San Jose, housed in a statuesque, landmarked former 19th century library and adjoining modern gallery, exhibits a contemporary art collection, as well as the artworks of emerging West Coast artists.

At this special evening celebrating, "The Art of Living Well," museum docents led tours through the exhibits, an artist created her interpretation of one of the properties within the Timbers Resorts portfolio, PlumpJack and CADE Wineries' prized varietals were served alongside Castello di Casole's Sangiovese blend from Tuscany.  Signature cocktails and dishes were also provided, each inspired by the distinctive properties of Timbers Resorts.  Click here to view the photo gallery from the event.

For more information on Timbers Resorts events or ownership opportunities, please contact us at 970.963.5019 or via email, [email protected].

Roasting & Toasting Anthony Bourdain in NYC

Anthony Bourdain famously holds back "No Reservations" on his Travel Channel series, which has begun its final season of road-tripping this month. Bourdain can expect comedians to not hold back, either, when they "roast" him on Oct. 11, 2012, at Pier Sixty in NYC as part of the 2012 New York City Wine & Food Festival.

Mario Batali and Willie Geist will host On the Chopping Block: A Roast of Anthony Bourdain with comedians Gilbert Gottfried, Artie Lange, Marc Maron, Jim Norton and Sarah Silverman all onboard to poke fun at Bourdain. As-seen-on-TV chefs Guy Fieri, Ted Allen, Rachael Ray and Eric Ripert also will sit on the dais.

"Bourdain's been trashing 'celebrity chefs' for years. Let's see how the shoe feels on the other foot," Batali said.

The Bourdain roast is being produced by Lizz Winstead and Caroline Hirsch of Carolines on Broadway.

Timbers Resorts is a proud sponsor of this event, hosting the Opening Reception with silent auction packages for lavish stays at  The Orchard at The Carneros Inn, Mayacama, Dancing Bear Aspen, One Steamboat Place and The Sebastian - Vail. A four-course dinner presented by Bank of America will follow in the dining room with scintillating views of the Hudson River, raucous entertainment and a live auction including a luxurious trip to Tuscany presented by Castello di Casole and Delta Airlines.

Dinner will consist of four courses prepared by James Beard Award-Winning Chef Michael White featuring menu items from his hotspot restaurants Ai Fiori, Osteria Morini and Marea. Fans will also enjoy GODIVA Ultimate Dessert Truffles and a GODIVA chocolate after dinner gift. Watch as Bourdain’s friends and foes return the torture he’s inflicted upon them for years.

Tickets for the all-star affair are all-inclusive with proceeds directed to the Food Bank For New York City and Share Our Strength’s No Kid Hungry® campaign.  While they last, they can be ordered online at www.nycwff.org or by calling 866.969.2933.

Follow all the action on Twitter with hashtag #NYCWFF or @Lee_Schrager

 

A Harvest Dinner at Del Posto

This fall, Timbers Resorts brought Owners and friends together for a special Harvest Dinner at Del Posto in New York City. Since opening in 2005, the Manhattan establishment has become an institution for fine Italian fare and the utmost in service. When restaurateurs Joseph Bastianich, Lidia Bastianich and Mario Batali came together with Mark Ladner, Del Posto's executive chef, they created the 24,000-square-foot palazzo of mahogany and marble. Set in a corner building below what is now the High Line park, Del Posto straddles Chelsea and the Meatpacking District.

The renowned ristorante served as the ideal setting for Timbers Resorts' intimate evening for fifty guests representing Owners from a cross-section of properties across the Timbers Collection. The Harvest Dinner took place in the Barolo Room, opening with a cocktail reception with passed appetizers. A three-course dinner followed, paired with fine wines. In all, the evening encompassed a sensational dinner complemented by inspiring conversation with friends old and new.

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A HARVEST DINNER WITH TIMBER RESORTS

ANTIPASTO
Insalata di Verdure with Robiola, Swiss Chard & Grapefruit Citronette
Vermentino “Solosole,” Poggio al Tesoro 2011 Toscana

PRIMO
Pumpkin Cappellacci with Brown Butter & Amaretti
Pinot Noir, Abbazia di Novacello 2009 Alto-Adige

SECONDI
Bass with Soft Sunchokes, Wilted Romaine & Warm Occelli Butter
Or
Heritage Pork Trio with Ribollita alla Casella & Black Cabbage Stew
Bolgheri Rosso, Le Macchiole 2010 Toscana

DOLCE
Tiramisu
Mascarpone, Espresso-Soaked Ladyfingers & Cocoa Powder
Moscato d’Asti, Brandini 2011  Piemonte

BISCOTTI ASSORTITI

To learn about Timbers Resorts and how you can be a part of this lifestyle that celebrates family, friends, fine food and wine,  contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone, 888.366.6641.

A Lexicon Lesson with Private Residence Clubs

Talking about timeshares and private residence clubs is a lot like talking bagels or the best slice of pizza: everybody's got an opinion.

Unfortunately, not everybody has a completely informed opinion. When it comes to considering private residence clubs (also known as fractional real estate and fractional ownership) and timeshares, for both you and your family, it's smart to have some  solid facts at your fingertips.

With that in mind, let's take a closer look at the two, and let's bring the similarities and differences into focus. We'll look at three details that help most folks understand the dynamics at work.

Time: 

The ways that fractional ownership and timeshares can differ include the period that a location is yours for the occupancy.

Fractional: When you decide on a fractional ownership property such as one of the signature destinations that comprise the Timbers Resorts luxury residences, you're investing in a fraction of the calendar year. You join other Owners and their families for what is typically one fourth, one eighth, or sometimes one twelfth of a 365-day cycle.

Timeshare: If you become a timeshare participant, you're also signing on for a portion of the year, but your period of residence might be a matter of days (perhaps a week) rather than a number of weeks to choose at your leisure.

Space:

Another way to think about the individual features of fractional and timeshare living is to think about the actual sites that each tend to include.

Fractional: Whether its ski-in/ski-out-out to the slopes of Snowmass and Steamboat, or a quick stroll to the cerulean surf of St. Thomas, when you step into the world of fractional luxury residences you are enjoying the crème de la crème of locations. Think Napa Valley. Think the hills of Tuscany. This is the stock and trade of fractional ownership of luxury private residences.

Timeshare: In the realm of the timeshare, location is often important as well. Might be that having a condo near your family is the goal, or that a house on the coast where you spend part of a selling season is key. Timeshare does not have to be purely practical, but it tends not to emphasize the same amenities you'll anticipate with fractional scenarios.

Finances:

There is of course the consideration of money. Long story short, the details that you've already come to understand about fractional luxury are going to drive a different price point than a situation such as that of timeshares, one that does not necessarily include every amenity.

On the other hand, once you've decided that a private residence club is right for you, your fraction of the location can be later mortgaged, willed, placed in a trust, owned by a corporation, and so on. It can be resold by you or a licensed real estate agent. And, according to experts who've looked at private-residence options in the past, your deeded interest stands to appreciate in a way similar to the value of a second home.

Timeshares tend to be more costly to re-sell — the original marketers' costs come into the equation at a higher percentage — and they can be less attractive to investors than private residence clubs because the way that they're used (by many rather than a few) implies a certain loss of value.

In the end, everyone knows what's right for their own lifestyle. As you think about the recipe that suits you — fractional resorts and timeshares being two possible ingredients — use the preceding information that we've just considered to fine tune your destination. The point, as Timbers Resorts sees it, is to always live well. So, choose well. And enjoy!

To learn more about Timbers Resorts and how you can be a part of this lifestyle, please contact us via email at [email protected] or by phone, 888.366.6641.