Inspired by Colorado’s high-country ranching and mining history, The Ranahan by Welk Resorts opened as a six-acre property overlooking the Blue River in historic Breckenridge, Colorado.
The resort’s name, Ranahan, is a cowboy term for a top ranch hand, and its architecture and interior design pay homage to the region’s Gold Rush roots and cattle-ranching history. A three-story stone and timber fireplace welcomes guests the minute they enter its lobby, which could be mistaken for a grand early-century ranching residence. The gold-panning heritage is evoked through mining-inspired artifacts and design features.
The resort has 67 one- and two-bedroom villas, each with a balcony or patio to enjoy the property’s scenic views. Villas also include fully-equipped kitchens, living rooms and fireplaces. Common areas have a lively indoor/outdoor pool complete with slide and kiddie splash pad, adult and family hot tubs, plus fire pits and barbecues.
The Ranahan by Welk Resorts is located at the northern gateway to Breckenridge, near the seven-mile Blue River Recreational Path for cycling and hiking and the Blue River itself for trout fishing. Mountain bikers and hikers can explore the Colorado Trail Head, located just a half-mile from the resort. It is also a short drive to the Breckenridge Golf Club, Breckenridge Ski Resort and the historic Breckenridge downtown. Also nearby are ghost towns, rail lines, historic mines, casinos and other popular ski mountains.
The Ranahan is also home to a Christy Sports rental shop for downhill, Nordic and snowboard rentals in the winter and bicycle rentals when the snows have melted.
The Ranahan project team included general contractor RA Nelson of Avon, Colorado; architect Studio OS Architecture of Denver; and interior designer Kimberly Timmons Interiors of Denver. The project cost was $60 million. Resort construction and hypothecation were financed by Western Alliance Bank.
The property also has an employee housing facility inspired by a traditional ranch bunkhouse.
Photo credit: Welk Resorts