Antlers on the Creek | Durango, CO

Whenever I travel, I’m always seeking something a little different, a unique experience that reflects its region. So in my search for a place to stay in Durango, CO, I was excited to discover Antlers on the Creek Bed & Breakfast. The images on the website showcased a warm-hearted environment with a white picket fence, rolling hills, a charming barn and luxuriously designed rooms. It almost seemed too idyllic to be true.

As I traveled down the peaceful country road approaching my destination, I spotted the white picket fence and immediately felt a sense of joy rush over me in seeing first-hand that the property was truly as charming as it promised in the photographs.

I arrived in the late afternoon just in time for the complimentary daily Happy Hour. As I got out of my car, I could see that most of the guests had already staked their claim at one of the delightful Nantucket Blue tables on the patio and were happily sipping their wine…and all I could think was I need to check-in quickly so I partake in the goodies.

Check-In

I entered the front double doors expecting to see the usual reception desk but instead I found a cozy foyer with an adorable chalkboard welcome sign, along with an Antler chandelier hanging from the ceiling. I almost felt as though I had stepped into someone’s private home but then I spotted my name on a note with a key on the credenza, and no sooner had I picked it up than someone popped out in front of me with a friendly greeting apologizing for being busy with the Happy Hour festivities….oh yes, the Happy Hour festivities…

I was asked if I would like something to drink, and who am I to decline an invitation, so I was ushered through a charming great room into the kitchen. I was pleased to see that I had not arrived too late as I witnessed the staff creating colorful parmesan tomato, jalapeno cheese crisps ~ that, by the way, were amazing!

Guest Rooms

The original homestead, established in the early 1900’s {with a second building added in the 1980’s}, was completely refurbished by Susan Barrett in 2014 after she took ownership of the property. Susan, a former Interior Designer, used her talent to create each of the seven spacious guestrooms into individually charming, rustic retreats with a relaxed elegance and all equipped with modern amenities such as Flat Screen TV’s, iPod Docking Stations, Keurig coffee makers and complimentary wi-fi. Fresh baked cookies are placed in the rooms and a small refrigerator is stocked with complimentary sodas and waters. Fresh flowers sit bedside and the rooms offer variations of features where some have gas stoves, a balcony, or soaking tub.

The en-suite bathrooms have large showers, some with soaking tubs, comfy robes and a most generous offering of stocked amenities such as toothbrushes and toothpaste, mouthwash, razors, cotton swabs, sunscreen, and aspirin along with the standard amenities of shampoo, conditioner, shower gel and lotions. It was quite abundant.

I stayed in the Bear Creek Room located on the ground floor in the second building which is a very pleasant room, but probably not the most private on the property as it sits on a pathway to the main house and parking lot {bushes screen the lot}. If you appreciate a little more privacy, I would suggest asking for an upper level or a ground unit facing the back yard/creek. But I would like to emphasize that this was a very pleasant room. Due to high occupancy, I didn’t get to see any of the other rooms but from the pictures I had seen and in speaking with other guests, I can summize that they are just as charming as the one I stayed in.

I had a great night’s sleep on the comfortable bed and the towels are super soft cotton which was such a pleasure. The rooms are kept meticulously clean, as a matter of fact, I had to laugh when Susan came to greet me in my room and as we were talking she spurts over to the bed and comes back to say “there was lint on the headboard and it was driving me crazy”…and I thought yes, this is someplace I want to stay!

To say that breakfast is included in your stay does not begin to describe the experience. This is a full three-course gourmet breakfast served every day in the dining room of the main house. A yogurt parfait bar, pastries, and creative main meal dishes leave you satiated for hours. If you are someone who doesn’t always appreciate a full morning breakfast, there is the option of a continental breakfast being delivered to your room.

During my stay, Chef Kurtis Becker, created a twist on Eggs Benedict that was so delicious and more satisfying than most dinner meals I usually have. It was a true treat. I also really enjoyed the interaction with the friendly staff, not to mention how much fun it was to sit in the cozy dining room and converse with the other guests.

Aside from breakfast being served, fresh baked cookies are continuously refilled for a “bottomless cookie jar” selection anytime. As a parting gift on my departure day, I received a “to go” bag with some cookies and water for the road ~ such a sweet gesture.

And of course, there is the daily Happy Hour between 5-6 pm which offers craft beers, wine and margaritas along with the prepared daily bites…and it’s not your mama’s Chex mix!

For dinner, you’ll want to go into downtown Durango only ten minutes away. Durango is an adorable historic town oozing with Western charm and has many great restaurant choices. Susan and her staff are quick to offer suggestions and will make reservations for you, which I would strongly suggest.

Susan made reservations for me at Ken and Sue’s Restaurant and I was happy she did as they were extremely busy when I arrived. And even though I had arrived an hour early and there was over an hour wait for a table, when I said that Susan had made reservations for me, I feel that I received preferential treatment and they sat me immediately. Having an Innkeeper that builds relationships with local businesses can be a big perk to the guests.

Property and Amenities

One of the finest aspects of this property is the friendly atmosphere that encourages its guests to mingle with one another, play games that are scattered about the property, such as the life-size chess game on the back lawn, or just sit back in one of the Adirondack chairs overlooking the peaceful yard and creek.

A hot tub is located under a Gazebo looking out towards the creek for a restful and relaxing way to cap off the evening. Sweet touches such as mason jars with candles hanging from the trees create a southern charm ambiance.

Durango is in a great location for many day trips such as to Mesa Verde or Telluride, and the drive is beautiful. The staff at Antlers is happy to customize your stay and make arrangements for any local activities you want to participate in.

There is a darling wood and antler altar by the creek and Antlers on the Creek {hmm..wonder where they got their name} will help you arrange an elopement or small wedding at this very romantic spot.

Summary

This is a charming property with so many personal touches throughout. I found Susan and her staff to be friendly, conscientious and meticulous, yet with a lighthearted demeanor that is so welcoming. You walk away truly feeling that they care about your experience and they make the extra effort to ensure that you have a great time. My stay was way too short so I look forward to a longer return next time. Thanks for the gracious hospitality Antlers on the Creek!