From the moment you arrive at The Inn at Keystone, Colorado, you’ll experience Rocky Mountain hospitality. During the summer, this budget-friendly hotel transforms from a ski resort to a welcoming mountain getaway.
Spectacular Mountain Views at The Inn at Keystone
Located in Keystone, a boutique ski resort, the Inn at the Keystone boasts a superb location between River Run Village and Lakeside and within walking distance of the Mountain House Base Area.
Arrival Experience
Along with nearly 700 travel bloggers and industry representatives, I arrived in Keystone for the recent TBEX convention. After check-in at the Keystone Convention Center, it took a couple of minutes to drive the Inn at Keystone, managed by Vail Resorts Hospitality.
Within seconds of entering the lobby and despite the line, Tim (assistant front desk manager) greeted me, and after a brief wait, check-in was uncomplicated. During my 3-day, 2-night stay, Tim was always right there to answer questions with a smile. In fact, the entire staff, from housekeeping to front desk to management was always welcoming and friendly.
Double Queen Standard accommodations at the Inn at Keystone
Accommodations
The Inn’s accommodations are basic, no frills but clean – after all it is touted as budget accommodations. Hotel rooms range from standard at 300 square feet with a king or two queens and bathroom to an oversized one-bedroom suite at 600 square feet. The spa suite also includes a 2-person jetted tub.
Basic in-room amenities include wireless Internet (free), cable TV and mini-frigs. Request in advance a room with a view of the Derum Mountain. After a full day of activities, sinking into the super-comfortable new mattresses and bedding guaranteed a good night’s sleep.
Dining & Public Areas
The lobby is designed to be comfortable with chairs and coffee table cozied together at the base of the recepetion desk. Step in a bit further and to the left is more comfy seating in a game room-style space with a fireplace.
To the right are the lounge and the Black Bear Grill. Although I didn’t dine this time, I did enjoy a glass of Chilean wine from a fine selection of wine by the glass. Both bartenders during my stay were also welcoming and offered tips for getting around.
Other Notables
Getting around Keystone is a breeze and free with the In-Resort Shuttle, the mountain town’s transportation system. The Inn at Keystone guests can catch the shuttle from the bus stop in front of the hotel, and it will take you throughout the Keystone area. Pick up is every 20 minutes, but my front desk man Tim gave me a number to check on ETA as we explored the Keystone Resort area.
NOTE: Parking is somewhat limited for the 103-room hotel, but there’s really no need to drive your vehicle once you park it.
Summary
If you’re looking for an upscale mountain lodging, then the Inn at Keystone is probably not for you. (You might want to consider AAA Four Diamond Keystone Lodge & Spa). However, for those on a budget or spending little time in your room, the Inn at the Keystone is the perfect accommodations. The Inn at Keystone is also dog-friendly and the only place to stay if you’re bringing your “best friend.”
As of June 2012, rack rates start at $99 up to $300 for a suite during high season and holidays.
Book online at Hotels.com.
Photos © Diana Rowe & The Inn at Keystone
I have to admit I was one of the lucky TBEX attendees staying at the Keystone Lodge a bit up the road, so my room was fancier. But what makes this place special is the staff, no matter where you are. Restaurants to lift operators to housekeeping, everyone I came in contact with at Keystone Resort went out of their way to help.