The Retreat Center at Horseshoe Lodge is a B&B that's part of the Mountain Park Environmental Center in Beulah, Colorado. It was original built in the 1930s, but has been renovated into an eco-lodge. There are 11 uniquely decorated rooms.
The retreat is in a quiet setting amongst nature, bordered by a 17,000 acre San Isabel National Forest roadless area. When you stay here, you have access to the park's three miles of unpaved roads for walking, six miles of trails for hiking, and connection to many more miles of National Forest trails.
Helene Van Manen, who works at the retreat, kindly took the time to answer these questions for us.
1. What do you enjoy most about being a part of the retreat?
The Retreat Center at Horseshoe Lodge is a beautiful historic building that excites our guests, and our place is so rich with nature that we love seeing how happy people are when they stay with us.
2. How long has the inn been in business?
The lodge has been open for 2 ½ years.
3. What was your inspiration for your inn? Did you have a certain vision for it?
Our inspiration was to take a historic building and create a beautiful, restful, nature-based lodge.
4. Why did you choose this inn and this city?
It chose us! It was a historic building left alone by the community and our non-profit breathed new life into it.
5. What sets your B&B apart from others?
The location – we are in a 611-acre mountain park full of hiking trails, wildlife, solitude, and quiet. After you park your car, you don’t have to get back in it to take a walk or hike.
6. Why do you think travelers should choose B&Bs over hotels?
It’s all about people and relationships. Hotels just don’t provide the unique travel experiences that staying at an inn or lodge offers.
7. Does your B&B have any special history?
Yes! It is a part of our nation’s very first efforts to develop National Forest Lands for recreation and education. Our lodge was built in the 1930’s by WPA crews as a part of FDR’s vision for improving our nation’s parks and providing work for our nation’s unemployed.
8. What makes your town worth visiting—are there any interesting local attractions or activities?
Nature is right outside your door. If you love bird watching, hiking, walking, wildflowers, snowshoeing or quiet, we have it all. We also have a beautiful walking labyrinth we call The Bluebird Labyrinth that you can enjoy.
9. Do you have any food specialties?
We specialize in homemade granola and healthy baked goods. Everything at MPEC is about learning to live and be healthier, including our luscious offerings.
10. Do you have any special offers coming up?
Yes, every month we have many programs with room discounts along with other specials.