High Country Lodge — Hotel in Four Corners States

Booked the lodge through a popular vacation rental website where it was only listed as a property. Planned to have an intimate wedding ceremony of about eight adults (40 yrs +). Sent a message through the vacation rental platform about my intent- did not immediately hear back. Sent out my wedding invites for a wedding that was less than a month away to our close family who would be traveling from out-of-state. Received a curt message from Patrick through the app informing me that I would need to send more money as the lodge is also an actual wedding venue and if we wanted to use it as such we needed to pay that rate (this was unknown to us as the home was listed on just a house rental website). He forwards us a link to the venue website where we confirm what we’ve already paid for and invited our family to in a few weeks is listed at a different rate on another site. Now he starts sending me random emails, all extremely curt in tone which I brush off initially as he is a chef (and they are known for having volatile, controlling temperaments and underdeveloped communication styles). Each message would have another single rule or detail he wanted us to consider or we would lose the venue. This became quite stressful when he informed us that if we planned to have food at our wedding (!) it would have to be through him and no other company. Other messages limiting how many people, etc. I would wake up in the night just terrified of this man. Fast forward to wedding day, he is personally waiting for us on the property through this is a VRBO rental that specified we could check ourselves in. With no concept of time or empathy, he informs us (our families arrived with us) of all the spaces we can’t use. He hovers around to ensure no caterer is coming - I forget what his excuse was. We all remember he was flat, unwelcoming and there was no acknowledgment it was our wedding day. Hours later and immediately before the service my guests tell me he is back. He is in the driveway with a lifted, old , allegedly broken down pick up truck. He says he has to park it in the driveway here and is walking to his house which is across the street. It’s clear to me this is an excuse to again check for a caterer, check how many guests - all of which we were honest about from the get go. We are a small respectful group and our initial payment was $10k via VRBO. It is hard to describe the dread and concern I felt when interacting with him prior to our service. It truly woke me up or kept me up most nights. On the day of our service, to stop by and interact with all our guests to basically screen people and inform them of the rules was the most controlling and least empathetic thing I’ve seen a person do. On my wedding day, when I am significantly more human and skilled communicator to show up to allegedly drop a broken down vehicle off in front of the lodge was extremely bizarre. Because of his terrible behavior I was scared to write a review. My five year anniversary is this week and my family still talks about how uncomfortable they felt. I am still thinking about how wrong and inhumane the communication and behavior was. I would personally beware...

Recently, we hosted a very meaningful wedding at High Country Lodge. In attendance were multi-generations including seven grandparents over 80 years old. We were grateful for Patrick's suggestion to rent oxygen machines. The Lodge, Patrick and his family met and exceeded our expectations. He allowed us to tour the lodge several weeks ahead, communicated well and assisted us with whatever we needed. Patrick accommodated our meal situation by preparing our appetizers and dinner for the wedding reception to perfection! Additionally, having a spacious kitchen with two refrigerators and a large serving buffet, allowed us to accommodate a bit of home cooking by the guests along with take-out options from the area. HCL is extremely spacious with comfortable rooms, (including both private and bunk rooms) many bathrooms and numerous seating areas for quiet reading of conversation. The tables are large for group meals, conversation, and games. From the lodge and deck we saw fox and moose visit the yard. The snow capped continental divide with sun rising and setting and storms rolling in and over the mountains was a highlight for all. On the cool days we enjoyed the fireplace and hot tub. The basement rec room was the perfect place for the bachelor/bachelorette gathering. Additionally, the deck provided an ideal setting for the wedding. The pine arch set with florals and greenery was an added bonus. Our guests continue to remember and be extremely grateful for the quiet yet conversation filled weekend we had celebrating the wedding of our bride & groom. What a joy to visit with and learn from the multi-generations in attendance from around our great nation following the trials of 2020.We left our time at HCL with full hearts and gratitude for Patrick and...

I want to express my sincere appreciation for the exceptional experience I had at A High Country Lodge. Patrick and Petra, the hosts of this lodge, are truly outstanding in their roles.

From my first phone call to explore staying there to the moment I left, it was clear that they are committed to ensuring every guest has a great stay. Their warm welcome, attention to detail, and hospitality made me feel right at home.

One of the highlights of my stay was Patrick's culinary skills. His gourmet meals were not only delicious but also a testament to his talent in the kitchen. Patrick's culinary talents are truly remarkable, and I believe even those with a discerning palate will be impressed.

The lodge itself is wonderful. It's impeccably clean, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed. Whether I was in my cozy room or enjoying the beautiful views from the lodge, I felt a sense of peace and serenity. The location is also convenient and offers a great connection to nature.

In conclusion, my stay at the High Country Lodge surpassed my expectations. Patrick and Petra's dedication to their guests and their commitment to excellence are truly admirable. I wholeheartedly recommend this lodge to anyone looking for a memorable getaway. Thank you, Patrick and Petra, for making my stay exceptional—I can't...