About Susan
Susan Gringauz has been an Independent Travel Advisor with Valerie Wilson Travel since 2018. Susan’s earliest and fondest childhood memories are of her family’s travel adventures. As an adult with her own family, Susan and her husband have continued the tradition, exploring unique destinations and creating lasting memories. After years of working with a luxury Travel Advisor, Susan was inspired to turn her love of travel into a fulfilling career making memories for others. She chose to join Valerie Wilson Travel for its reputation, comprehensive training programs, and unwavering support for its advisors. Susan feels grateful every day for her new and prosperous career.
With a passion for creating unforgettable experiences, Susan’s ultimate goal is to ensure that every journey is magical, leaving behind cherished memories that last a lifetime. Beyond her professional endeavors, Susan is dedicated to giving back to her local South Florida community. She actively volunteers and has, and holds, various leadership positions.
Auberge’s The Lodge at Blue Sky combines the authentic mountain experience with luxury, relaxation, adventure, gastronomy, and service, perfectly exemplifying Auberge’s brand of destination properties. My husband and I had the privilege of visiting Blue Sky in October and December 2023 and January 2024. The property offers something for every luxury traveler in every season, with lush and green summers, a kaleidoscope of fall colors, and a winter wonderland of snow.
A Calming Location
Blue Sky is located 40 minutes from the Salt Lake City airport. Accessible via a major highway, the drive to the lodge is easy, even during snowy conditions. Built on 3,500 acres, surrounded by mountain ranges and a tranquil spring-fed creek, Blue Sky creates a calm environment from the moment you arrive. Picture yourself opening the sliding doors to your expansive balcony, greeted by the soothing sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rush of water from the creek – the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature.
Additionally, Blue Sky is only a 25-minute drive to Park City. The hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service, along with upscale cars available for guest use. During the winter months, skiers will arrange for the shuttle to transport them to Lodge’s private ski lounge at the base of Park City Mountain Resort.
Year-Round Experiences
Blue Sky has activity guides tailored to all seasons. If a specific activity is not listed, their team will reach out to clients before they arrive and create a personalized itinerary. Activities abound, from indoor/outdoor horseback riding, fly fishing, clay shooting, hiking, biking, to cross-country skiing.
Other unique activities include meeting with the beekeeper to learn about honey production, indulging in a variety of spa services, participating in cooking classes, private wine experiences, horse-drawn wagon rides, learning the basics of making kombucha, going to the farmers market at their own Gracie’s Farm, and many more bespoke offerings.
Our Adventure
During our stay, my husband and I enjoyed exploring the property’s trails, which led to breathtaking panoramic views of the surroundings. Every morning, I tried a different Yoga class with stunning views of the mountains. The gym facilities are equipped with Peloton bikes and various machines that never felt overcrowded.
We also savored moments of relaxation at the spa, located outside the main building. The spa facilities were an oasis of calm and tranquility where we enjoyed massages or just simply relaxing. Notably, the spa makes their own essential oils, each with a unique purpose, used in every treatment.
Earth & Sky
Accommodations at Blue Sky include Earth Suites and Creek Houses, both standalone buildings located a three-minute walk from the main building. These accommodations are designed with beautiful mountain luxury decor, featuring wood floors, expansive views, large and soothing bathrooms, and all the modern conveniences. During our stay in October, we opted for the Earth Suite, which we truly enjoyed. In December and January, we decided to stay in a Sky Suite within the main building, and it was also fantastic.
Gastronomy
Gastronomy at Blue Sky centers around its flagship restaurant, Yuca, renowned for its “refined mountain fare rooted in farm-fresh flavors.” The chef showcases local ingredients to create a delightful farm-to-table experience. As picky eaters, we always found something delicious to enjoy. The staff excelled in accommodating our dietary needs and food allergies.
For a more relaxed environment, guests can dine in the bar area, cozying up to the warmth of the fire with expertly curated cocktails and mocktails from the bartender.
During the winter months, guests can elevate their dining experience by dining in the private dining room, the wine room, or the mountaintop yurt. The yurt offers a unique setting for fondue lunches, private dinners, whiskey or wine tastings, and even private yoga sessions.
Breakfast at Blue Sky is a phenomenal experience included in the Virtuoso amenities. We enjoyed a fresh breakfast every day, always setting the tone for a perfect day.
Why I Keep Coming Back
I can honestly say the phrase “where everybody knows your name” perfectly encapsulates my experience at The Lodge at Blue Sky. From the moment we arrived, we were embraced as part of their family, and we feel incredibly lucky to experience all it has to offer. Blue Sky caters to every traveler, perfect for individuals, couples, groups, and even weddings. I hope you have the chance to experience the magic of Blue Sky for yourself!
Useful Links
- Blue Sky is a wonderful property for groups! The following link showcases Blue Sky’s venues: Group Brochure
- Summer Experiences: Rescue Horse Rehabilitation, Regenerative Farming School
- Fall Experience Guide
- Winter Experiences: Winter Experience Guide, Snowmobile Access Ski, Blue Sky Culinary Classes