A number of choices are available for travelers who want the utmost in service and luxury when they head to the Rocky Mountains. If you have such clients in your roster, you could hardly do better than to recommend Beaver Creek, whose name and reputation have been built on providing the royal treatment. Trapper's Cabin, a lodge in Beaver Creek

Clients accustomed to the privileges of the well-heeled will feel quite comfortable here. Families will appreciate the fact that Beaver Creek's main village is essentially car-free, designed to accommodate shopping and transporting equipment to and from the slopes. Beaver Creek is also a great option for travelers who have a special event, such as a family reunion or gathering, or a girlfriends' getaway. Also, clients with romance on their minds could scarcely find a place that would better satisfy their whims and desires.

Skiers and snowboarders of all abilities will find ample terrain geared to their level at Beaver Creek. With plenty of beginner-and intermediate-level slopes, the resort is a paradise for those who like cruising down wide-open groomers. Beaver Creek's ski school is widely renowned. But the resort also has territory that ranks among the most difficult anywhere, and it has hosted many World Cup events. Those who choose not to go downhill skiing can enjoy a spectacular mountaintop bowl for Nordic skiing and snowshoeing. A couple with skis at RockResorts' Pines Lodge

One of the jewels of Beaver Creek is RockResorts' Pines Lodge, located quite close to the central village. A property under the umbrella of the Vail Beaver Creek Resort Properties, the Pines strikes a nice balance between luxury and the down-home atmosphere that many travelers seek when visiting Colorado. Service is attentive and exemplary, and that Beaver Creek sense of style and serenity is ever-present.

The Pines' décor is a blend of traditionally warm western motifs and a distinctively European alpine flavor. The rooms have balconies, comfortable beds, marble baths, Avanyu Spa bath amenities and ski-friendly elements such as boot heaters. There's also a pool that was remodeled in June 2006, complete with a new outdoor hot tub.

When booking the Pines, consider the 600-square-foot King Corner rooms, which have recently undergone bathroom renovations and have large windows providing excellent views. For a stunning view of the village and the surrounding mountains, book a Superior Room, preferably on the third floor, or a penthouse condos on the fourth floor, with living rooms, full kitchens and multi-bedroom units.

For the 2006-'07 ski season, the Pines has a ski-free/stay-free package, whereby travelers buy a certain number of nights (typically three) and then receive an additional night of lodging and one day of skiing for free. From January 7 to February 16, the "buy three, get four" deal starts at $604.50, per person double occupancy, for a Lodge Room on a weekday. There are also yoga, bachelorette and couples' fitness packages for the season. The agent contact is Jamie Fisher, reservations manager and wholesale liaison (970-845-6271 or [email protected]).

Other excellent properties operated by Vail Beaver Creek Resort Properties (866-829-4360, www.bvcrp.com) include villas and lodge rooms at SaddleRidge, a lodge containing dozens of authentic historic artifacts, Market Square condos, overlooking Beaver Creek Village's iconic ice-skating rink, and Trapper's Cabin, an ultimate-luxury experience. This exclusive retreat is found 9,500 feet up, on top of Beaver Creek Mountain, and has a personal chef, a fireplace and an outdoor Jacuzzi.

Essential Links

Beaver Creek Mountain Resort http://beavercreek.snow.com

Pines Lodge http://pineslodge.rockresorts.com

Vail Beaver Creek Resort Properties www.vbcrp.com