Scratching the Surface of The (Magnificent) Broadmoor Hotel

As we were leaving Seven Falls, we got a glimpse of a local hotel, The Broadmoor. We were out of time for the day, but we vowed to return.  Monday, we did just that.  This gorgeous hotel has been providing stellar (and award winning) service and hospitality to the common folk and dignitaries alike, for over 100 years.  The property is absolutely magnificent, and indoors, every room is ornate and exquisitely maintained and appointed.  Every stick of furniture is elegant and obviously, meant to be used and enjoyed by guests and visitors.  Even though we were only there to view the buildings and grounds, we were greeted warmly by the valets, and whisked indoors under a spectacular painted canopy.

The main foyer had a stained glass ceiling, and there were huge bouquets of roses and other flowers on almost every table. Chandeliers were dripping with crystals, and not a one of them held a speck of dust.

We passed through the main foyer, past the smiling & friendly concierges, and followed that inviting path, lined on both sides with quaint lampposts and fragrant hanging baskets, around the lake, past the paddle boats, and down to the sparkling infinity pool.  It was tempting, for sure.  But, we hadn't brought our suits, and nowhere did we see the "clothing optional" signs of Desert Reef.

Our shadow-selves paused a moment to drink in the sights and appreciate the beauty all around us.

As we were not registered guests, we couldn't get any closer, but boy, did we want to dip our toes!

The outdoor views were just as spectacular as indoors.

 

Back inside, we spent a couple of hours (!!) wandering from lobby to parlor to gallery, simply reading the historical notes and viewing hundreds of pictures and artifacts that were lovingly displayed in glass-fronted curio cabinets that reached almost to the ceiling.  The property was built by Spencer Penrose and his wife, Julia, in the style of the grand chateaus of Europe.  It was meant to be a place of luxury and opulence, to be enjoyed by high society and travelers of the early 1900's.  

There were ornate and circular stairwells...

And terry cloth handtowels in the bathrooms; no cheap paper towels here! And, yes, the toilet paper ends were indeed folded over into triangles, as was totally expected.  And yes, the complimentary lotion was of very good quality and fragrance.

This is a portrait of the ever-dapper Mr. Spencer Penrose. 

They made their own gelato, and it certainly looked scrumptious.  

The pastries were beautiful as well.  Luckily for our budget, we had enjoyed a hearty pancake breakfast before we set out, so we were tempted, but able to resist.

Even "ordinary" staircases were ornate and embellished by hand-painted inlaid tiles in the risers and waterfalls and fountains down the center.

It was our dear friend, Gary's, birthday, and we found the perfect present for him!  Notice the price!  We knew he'd feel bad if we spent that much on him, so again, we were able to resist the temptation without too much trouble. 

Around every bend were cozy little seating arrangements, some were casual, like this hand-painted garden scene...

While others were a bit more masculine and formal, like these two armchairs and their accompanying turtle ottoman.

For several yeras, The Broadmoor was home and training facility to Olympic skating teams, both men and women.  Peggy Fleming was one of the major influencers of her time here.  In February of 1961, the entire U.S. World Figure Skating team suffered a horrific loss when their plane crashed in Belgium,  Seventy two people were on board, including 8 members of the Broadmoor Skating Club, and everyone was killed in the crash.

In memorium, they created this marble skate blade and inscribed their friends' names on it.

As we reluctantly left the property, we stopped for one last look back at what was surely one of the most beautiful man-made structures we've ever had the privilege of touring.

We came down off the mountain top and grand days of yore, and were quickly jolted back to reality  within moments, with this sign, advertising Gas & Grass.  Offering a 15% discount for vets, no less.  That is one discount we won't be taking advantage of!  

Next up, Garden of the Gods.  But you'll have to wait till I can get my photos sorted out.  Don't ask.  Just know that technology is a wonderful thing, when it works.  And a bug-a-boo when it wants to be.  And tonight, it wanted to be.  Till next time, y'all stay safe!