I think that some of the most relaxing and memorable travel experiences are those that are close to home. There is nothing quite like a staycation. No airplane required. I was recently whisked away 40 minutes out of Downtown Calgary to the stunning Azuridge Estates Hotel with several other Calgarian media friends. Located near Priddis and Spruce Meadows, Azuridge is literally the only luxury spot outside the city limits.
We pulled up to the property in our plush limo bus and I was immediately wowed by the stunning scenery that surrounded Azuridge. I spotted a soaring water tower and large tiered gazebo off in the distance, not to mention the gorgeous wood and stone main buildings. Their friendly staff greeted us eagerly and ushered us inside to celebrate our evening with a glass of bubbly.
After a few pop, fizz and clinks we headed off to check out our rooms for the night. My husband and I were so excited to move into our luxurious room and get well-rested but alas we still had dinner to get to.
We were then toured around the property where we got to see nearly every single room in the place. Not only is there a private theater room where you can stretch back in super comfy chairs and a faux fur blanket. A gorgeous fitness center looks out over scenic foothills and the Rocky Mountains. Talk about an inspiring place to workout. We also found out that one of our fellow attendees’ room had a tent in their loft plus an Xbox console. Lucky!
Soon enough it was time for dinner and we all met up in one of the fabulous dining rooms. The meal was so eloquently presented and each morsel was jampacked with flavour. My favourite part of the meal was the cocktail of New Brunswick lobster and Louisiana crawfish with mango and avocado.
We had only just finished our amazing dinner when out came a wonderful gift from Azuridge! Hunter Boots for everyone! I received a sweet pair of shiny grey boots and Byron got matte black boots. What a great surprise.
Apparently, they wanted to keep the surprises coming because out came Calgary-based musician Michael Bernard Fitzgerald who was going to serenade us this evening by the fireside. Delicious après dinner drinks were offered (I indulged in some Baileys & Hot Chocolate!) and giant marshmallows sat by the fire. MBF played some beautiful songs for us and humorously snuck the word ‘Azuridge’ into his lyrics. It was fabulous.
It was the end of a long week so a tuckered out group of journalists headed off to their rooms for a great night sleep. I was ready for bed too but not before I indulged in the beautifully presented cocktail hydrotherapy bath treatment. Salts served up on a martini glass and bubble bath in a shot glass – this was one deluxe bathing experience. What could really be better than a big jet tub that you can stretch out in. So nice and relaxing after the perfect day.
We checked out in the morning after enjoying a lovely little breakfast with cappuccinos and fresh juice. Watching the sun rise over the property was something absolutely magical. The dewy lawns and the ethereal glow around the forest surrounding Azuridge just added to the fairytale feel. I could have stayed all weekend.
So, perhaps the next time you feel like you need to get away from the city for some R&R, call me and I will meet you at Azuridge.
photos by kait kucy
