A Serene Babymoon Escape: Our Unforgettable Retreat at Cloud Camp, The Broadmoor
Being pregnant during a global pandemic presented a unique set of challenges and surreal moments. Thankfully, we were still able to embark on a memorable mini babymoon right in our home state, choosing the breathtaking Cloud Camp at The Broadmoor in nearby Colorado Springs! This exquisite wilderness haven, majestically situated atop Cheyenne Mountain, offers an experience truly unlike any other, quite literally elevating you above the clouds. It’s an oasis of quiet and profound serenity, perfectly tailored for couples seeking an intimate and restorative getaway.
Disclosure: This post is sponsored by The Broadmoor. As always, all opinions are my own. Thanks for supporting the brands that support Cake ‘n Knife!
The year 2020 undoubtedly unfolded in ways none of us could have ever predicted, quickly escalating into what many dubbed a “dumpster fire” before we could even fully grasp its implications. Amidst the unprecedented global changes and daily uncertainties, life continued to move forward, bringing with it both challenges and unexpected joys. For us, that joy came in the form of a tiny new life on the way. Having a little bundle of joy to anticipate certainly helps to illuminate the good in everyday life, making us even more profoundly grateful for our precious little nugget.
The prospect of a babymoon, traditionally a relaxed escape for expectant parents, became a subject of careful consideration given the state of the world. My husband, “The Man,” and I were initially hesitant about venturing out at all. However, after much discussion, we agreed that if we could plan a trip close to home and ensure it was an exceptionally secluded getaway, we would both feel comfortable taking a few days to ourselves. Our main goal was to find a peaceful sanctuary where we could disconnect from the relentless news cycle and truly focus on each other and the exciting journey ahead.
This decision led us to search for destinations that promised both luxury and isolation, a place where we could feel completely safe and serene. We envisioned a retreat nestled in nature, far from crowded spaces, yet offering all the comforts needed for a pregnant mama. Cloud Camp at The Broadmoor emerged as the perfect candidate, offering not just a change of scenery but an entirely different world, a literal breath of fresh air high above the anxieties of the moment. It was the ideal choice for our much-needed mini babymoon, allowing us to embrace tranquility and create lasting memories before our family expands.
Our Journey to Cloud Camp: An Elevated Escape
Instead of opting for a stay at the main Broadmoor resort, where we have enjoyed previous visits, we set our sights higher – literally. Our adventure took us winding up, up, up Cheyenne Mountain, towards the unparalleled elevation of Cloud Camp. The journey itself felt like an ascent into another realm, leaving the everyday hustle far behind and ushering us into a profound sense of tranquility.
Cloud Camp presents a distinctly different experience from its grand Broadmoor counterpart. It truly shines as a destination for couples and those who genuinely appreciate immersing themselves in the heart of the wilderness. While our overall time there was utterly delightful, I must admit a slight reservation about recommending it specifically as a babymoon location for those in later stages of pregnancy. Given how far along I was, and my normal tendency to get winded, the added elevation made physical activities a bit more challenging. The swelling I experienced was also a little more pronounced than I had anticipated! These are the valuable lessons we often only learn through personal experience, aren’t they?
Nevertheless, if your primary goal is to carve out dedicated, uninterrupted time with your significant other, Cloud Camp offers a truly lovely and secluded setting. It’s a place where the outside world gently fades away, allowing you to reconnect, relax, and cherish each other’s company in an extraordinary natural environment. For couples seeking a deeply intimate and tranquil escape, perhaps before the joyful whirlwind of parenthood begins, this mountain retreat provides an ideal backdrop for lasting memories.
What Makes Cloud Camp Unique? A History Above the Clouds
To truly appreciate Cloud Camp, one must delve into the visionary legacy of The Broadmoor’s founder, Spencer Penrose. In his time, Penrose envisioned and constructed a magnificent retreat high on Cheyenne Mountain. This unique sanctuary was not only a place to host distinguished guests but also famously housed a fascinating array of wild animals – bears, cougars, snakes, and more – creating a truly exotic and memorable experience. Today, this historic site has been thoughtfully renovated and transformed into an intimate, all-inclusive mountain camp exclusively for adults. It’s a place where sophistication meets rugged beauty, offering a perfect blend of luxury and wilderness adventure.
Cloud Camp consists of a select number of private cabins and comfortable rooms within the elegant main lodge. What sets it apart is its comprehensive, all-inclusive nature: from gourmet food and beverages to a curated selection of activities, everything is seamlessly taken care of. This unique setting, infused with the unmistakable Broadmoor flair for excellence, crafts an idyllic haven for relaxation and rejuvenation. For us, the emphasis was squarely on one thing: **RELAXING**. After navigating a year marked by extraordinary stress, compounded by the preparations for a new baby, training a rambunctious puppy, and the unique journey of pregnancy, we desperately needed a few days off the beaten path to simply *be*.
The drive up to Cloud Camp is an experience in itself. You ascend directly through the renowned Cheyenne Mountain Zoo – a place I’m still eager to visit properly one day! As you climb higher and higher, the landscape transforms, passing through dense pine forests and, quite literally, through clouds, until the grand main lodge emerges. The day we arrived, a thick fog enveloped the mountain, adding an almost mystical and slightly eerie charm to the drive. It felt as if we were being transported not just to a different place, but to an entirely different time, enhancing the sense of secluded adventure.
For those seeking an even more memorable arrival, there’s the option to undertake a mule ride up the mountain to Cloud Camp. While I’m certain it offers spectacular views and a truly unique perspective, as a five-month pregnant lady, that particular adventure wasn’t a practical choice for me. However, for non-expectant visitors, it promises to be an unforgettable part of the Cloud Camp journey.
The Culinary Experience at Cloud Camp: Rustic Elegance and Mountain Flavors
The dining experience at Cloud Camp offers a delightful departure from what one might typically find at the bustling Broadmoor resort below. Historically, meals – breakfast, lunch, and dinner – were served at a grand communal table, fostering a warm, convivial atmosphere among guests. With necessary COVID-19 precautions in place, the setup had been thoughtfully adjusted, but the dining room, with its rustic cabin charm, remained as inviting and gorgeous as ever. The staff ensured an intimate and safe environment, allowing us to fully savor each meal.
Mornings began with a hearty buffet breakfast, offering a tempting array of options to fuel a day of mountain activities. Lunch was a straightforward yet elegant affair, typically featuring a couple of carefully crafted choices for a starter, a main course, and a delightful dessert. The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the four-course dinner. Guests could select their preferences from a refined menu, perfectly complemented by an extensive list of fine wines or any beverage desired from the well-stocked bar. For me, the mocktail game at Cloud Camp was absolutely fantastic! It was wonderful to sit, sip, and feel completely included in the evening’s festivities, pretending to imbibe alongside everyone else with a delicious, non-alcoholic creation.
Beyond the structured meals, one of my absolute favorite aspects was the daily snack spread. Always available, it was replete with freshly baked cookies and a variety of savory, salty treats. As an expectant mother, I found myself ravenous at all hours, so having these delightful provisions readily accessible was a true blessing. It was incredibly convenient not to have to track someone down for a bite every couple of hours, allowing for continuous, stress-free indulgence whenever a craving struck. This thoughtful detail truly enhanced the sense of being cared for and catered to, making our babymoon even more relaxing and enjoyable.
Activities and Adventures Await: Something for Everyone
At Cloud Camp, the array of activities is seemingly endless, ensuring that whether you’re inclined to simply unwind or embark on an adventure, there’s always something to keep you engaged. For those seeking a gentle start to the day, morning yoga provides a serene way to greet the mountain air. Guided morning or afternoon hikes invite you to explore the stunning natural surroundings, or, if you prefer, you can grab a map and set off on your own personalized adventure, just as we did!
Beyond the trails, a variety of classic camp activities awaits. You can challenge your partner to a friendly game of corn hole, or for a more unique experience, consider a mule ride, tracing historic paths up the mountain. Archery instruction quickly became my personal favorite – I even managed to hit a bullseye, much to my delight! For culinary enthusiasts, the cooking club offers a brief yet engaging demo by the head chef, which we thoroughly enjoyed, gaining insights into some of the camp’s delicious preparations. As evening descends, the fire pit becomes the hub for camaraderie and sweet treats, with s’mores making after dinner providing a perfect end to the day.
The list of recreational options extends even further, promising continuous entertainment. Guests can enjoy horseshoes, various lawn games like corn hole (a classic!), and engaging crafts – we particularly loved making personalized wood-burned ornaments for ourselves and one for my mom, who graciously looked after our pups. Stargazing under the crystal-clear mountain sky is a truly magical experience, offering unparalleled views of the cosmos. Other options include disc golf, a selection of board games for cozy evenings, peaceful bird watching, and a lively game of pickleball. And last, but certainly not least, are the inviting hot tubs.
Oh, how I wished I could have indulged in a luxurious soak in one of those magnificent hot tubs! The views from them are absolutely breathtaking, providing a panoramic vista of the surrounding mountains and valleys. I can only imagine the romance of cuddling up with your partner, perhaps with a couple of mugs of their comforting mulled cider, while soaking in the warmth and admiring such a spectacular natural backdrop. It’s an experience that truly epitomizes the secluded charm and relaxation Cloud Camp offers.
Planning Your Visit: When to Experience Cloud Camp’s Charm
Cloud Camp operates seasonally, typically welcoming guests through mid-October each year before reopening its doors in May of the following year. This seasonal schedule ensures that visitors can experience the mountain’s beauty across vibrant spring and summer months, extending into the picturesque autumn foliage season. It’s always a good idea to check The Broadmoor’s official website for exact opening and closing dates to plan your perfect escape.
For those looking for an exceptionally unique and private holiday experience, Cloud Camp offers an extraordinary opportunity. Imagine taking over the **entire lodge** for Thanksgiving or Christmas! This exclusive offering allows one family or group to enjoy the utmost privacy and luxury, celebrating the holidays in an unparalleled mountain setting. You can find more details on this special package here if you’re interested. Given the ongoing need for safe and secluded gatherings, this presents a wonderfully fun and secure way to celebrate with your loved ones, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty and the unparalleled service of The Broadmoor. It truly allows you to feel completely safe and pampered over the holidays, adding an extra layer of luxury to your cherished family traditions.
Whether you’re planning a romantic babymoon, a special anniversary celebration, or a unique family gathering, Cloud Camp offers a truly remarkable and unforgettable experience. Its combination of natural splendor, luxurious amenities, and personalized service makes it a premier destination for those seeking an escape from the ordinary and a deeper connection with the wilderness. We highly recommend considering this elevated retreat for your next special occasion, promising an adventure that will be etched in your memories for years to come.
We hope our insights into Cloud Camp have been helpful! If you have any more questions about our experience or planning your own mini babymoon at this incredible destination, please don’t hesitate to drop them in the comments below. We’d love to hear from you!
And for all the soon-to-be mamas out there, or those looking for the perfect gift, don’t forget to check out our comprehensive list of baby registry must-haves. It’s packed with essentials to help you prepare for your own little arrival!