One of the great things about becoming an empty nester is being able to travel when we want and where we want. We often find ourselves in the south and on a beach but this fall I decided we needed to see our beautiful country to find my peace, love, and happiness. We partnered with The Ridge Tahoe which is located on the Sierra Nevada Ridge above Lake Tahoe. 

Stateline, NV 89449

How To Get There

We arrived in the wee hours so from the airport we took the South Tahoe Airporter to Lakeside Casino and from there a Lyft or Uber to the resort. Our shuttle driver was on her last drive so she drove us the rest of the way which was so kind of her! Of course we tipped her big! 

We arrived at our building and entered our one bedroom condominium suite which can easily sleep 1-4 people! As a mom the first thing I thought was how perfect this would be for a family. It had a fully equipped kitchen with microwave, dishwasher, full-sized refrigerator, full-sized oven, small appliances, dishes and utensils, and all cooking necessities. A large dining room table and a gas fireplace in the living room.  

The View

In the morning as I opened the drapes, my jaw dropped from the breathtaking and beautiful view of Carson Valley. This did not get old. Every morning I would jump out of bed to look at the view and of course I set my alarm to make sure I was up to watch the sunrise…… It was A Maz Zing! 

When you walk out of your building you will want to take the free shuttle to the other parts of the resort. This city girl made the mistake of thinking I could walk the hill with no issue. Well….. it’s steeper than it looks and the locals call it “cardiac hill”. We did it, but I would rather save that energy for hiking one of the many trails. No matter where you are in the resort you can’t help but to stop and take in the view for a few minutes. You may find yourself spinning for the full panoramic beauty.

Each night I would make sure I would get outside to watch the sunset. Every one was drawn with a different spectacular canvas, from warm rich colors to the brightest pinks and corals. It was as if the sky was being painted majestically while each color glowed just brushing the mountain below it. 

If you’re from the city you will notice that the air is clean and fresh.

NOTE: If you are not used to high elevation, you need to be careful of altitude sickness- (dizziness, headache, nausea) It’s easily prevented if you make sure to drink lots of water and don’t do strenuous activities the first day. Once your body adjusts after a couple days, you’re good to go. 

The Resort

There is so much to do at this resort, you will never get bored. Not to mention they have a shuttle that will take you to Heavenly Village, Lake Tahoe, and the Casino. At the resort you have a full service health club, indoor sports complex, indoor/outdoor swimming pools and Jacuzzis, restaurant, bistro, market, full-service spa and more. 

Our first day we were taking it easy so we started by having breakfast at the Bistro. You can choose from bacon and eggs, waffles, breakfast sandwiches, and other favorites to get your fuel for the day. The Bistro also serves lunch and dinner. 

NOTE: Stop at The Marketplace for your coffee and cream so you can make it the morning. You can also buy other food to cook and eat right in your room. They have the cutest clothes there too- I found a pair of pajama pants that have bears on them and it says “I’m a bear in the morning!” So TRUE! and comfy 

Elevation Spa

After our breakfast at the Bistro we hit the full service spa. It was the perfect remedy after many hours of travel into the wee hours. We each had a 60 minute massage that soothed every sore muscle and got us ready to conquer the day. After our massage we headed to the spas outdoor pool and Jacuzzi. The air was nippy but taking a plunge into the cold pool surrounded by amazing views was exhilarating. 

I’m not one to go in cold water so I shocked my husband! I warmed right up when I got into the Jacuzzi, laid my head back and watched the birds delicately go into each pine cone in the tree to get its lunch. 

NOTE: The pinecones are another story. They are HUGE and perfect. I actually filled a suitcase and made gorgeous Christmas gifts for everyone. If we’re friends on Facebook, my cover photo was taken while I was in the spa pool! 

A Night In

After a day of skiing, hiking, or shopping you might decide to stay close and hang at the resort. We went to the Hungry Bear, located at the resort for an elegant night of dining with a casual atmosphere. I had mouth watering grilled filet medallions with a wild mushroom port demi and The Sicilian had his favorite, a rack of lamb. You will also find fish, chicken and other delicious choices from their innovative chef. 

We weren’t ready to turn in for the night so we headed over to The Bear Trap Bar for a night cap and played a couple games of pool. While there we met a few other people who were also staying at The Ridge and we played pool, laughed, and made new friends. 

NOTE: For every alcoholic drink you have when in high elevation, it’s like having 2 or 3 drinks so be careful

We also met a couple who were on their honeymoon and we all decided to go to the rooftop Jacuzzi in our building. It was 30 degrees outside but sitting in the hot bubbling water under a starry sky was heart-warming. 

Hiking

I’m not a hiker but knowing the views I could see that weren’t accessible by car, I had to put on a pair of hiking shoes, grab my water, and set out for some trail exploring. As I said earlier, I was intrigued by the pinecones so I decided my hike would also be a treasure hunt for the perfect pinecones! There are trails for beginners to experts! 

You will find an extensive network of back-country trails that will fulfill your hiking desires and you can check with the staff of Ridge Tahoe to see if there are any organized hikes planned during your stay. 

NOTE: I picked an easy trail that was behind the tennis court at The Ridge. 

The Ridge in the winter

If you’re a snow lover than this is the place for you. You will find every winter activity at The Ridge or nearby. Enjoy world class skiing, cross country skiing, guided snow shoeing tours, snow mobiling, ice skating, tubing, and much more! 

NOTE: The Resorts Ski Shop is a Full Service Rental, Tune and Repair Center

Renew Your Vows

As we took a tour of the property, we were showed where wedding ceremonies take place. The magnificent view as couples exchange their vows would truly be a memory to remember. I wish I get married here all over again but then I thought……. what about renewing our vows! This is the perfect destination for empty nesters to renew their love for each other. 

We came in the fall and it was off-season. I truly think you can visit The Ridge in every season and never run out of things to see or do. This would be the perfect time to book your February or March snow get-away!

This is where I found my Peace, Love, and Happiness!!

Book your stay today!