What could be better than waking up to the snow-covered mountains in a traditional log cabin on your Christmas getaway? Just imagine opening the curtains and looking out into a winter wonderland as the snow falls around you. If this sounds like your ideal place for a holiday, consider visiting Breckenridge in Colorado. There are lots of
Breckenridge cabin rentals that will provide the perfect accommodation for your dream Christmas. Here are a few tips on how to make your Christmas trip complete.
Prepare Yourself for the Altitude:
The first tip is to anticipate the altitude. Breckenridge sits at almost 3000 meters, which means some visitors are likely to experience altitude sickness. You can get to the mountain resort within two hours from Denver and climb an additional 1,400 metres higher than the Mile High City. If you’re flying into Colorado from somewhere that’s much lower, the sudden increase in altitude will be a major shock to your system.Sickness results from less oxygen in the air, which means your body doesn’t get as much from one breath. Symptoms tend to include dizziness, lethargy and confusion. Luckily, within a few days, most people begin to acclimatise, and they can enjoy the rest of their trip without problems. However, you shouldn’t plan to do too much in the first day or two of arriving.
Bring the Right Clothes:
When you’re in Breckenridge in December, daily temperatures rarely exceed freezing point. Average highs are just -1°C and the nights usually get down to -17°C. Some people may be familiar with these frigid temperatures, though, most of us aren’t. Make sure you bring the right clothes including several layers of warm jumpers and a thick coat along with a hat, scarf and gloves. Hypothermia is a serious condition, and it’s all too easy to fall victim if you don’t have the right clothes. In short, it’s better to bring too many than not enough. And you’re probably going to need the big suitcase rather than the backpack!
You Don’t Want to Get Sunburn:
After reading through the points above, it can seem a little counterintuitive to now warn you about the risks of severe sunburn. How can you possibly get sunburn on the top of a mountain when the daily averages are around -10°C? You’re not on a beach in Thailand! Well, the higher you go, the stronger the UV rays are from the sun. And it’s a misconception that you only get burnt when the weather is warm.Skiers often fall foul of this, and sometimes it can be quite serious when they spend long hours on the slopes. Intense UV rays reflecting off the white snow onto your face is a recipe for burning. The solution is to bring a bottle of sunscreen and always remember to apply before you go out.
Make the Most of the Free Shuttle Bus:
Getting around the small town is easier than you may think. A free shuttle bus takes passengers around Breckenridge. If you plan to use their service, it’s a good idea to check schedules in advance, so you don’t end up freezing to death while waiting. The bus follows a route passing by the main sights, and you can see all the must-see attractions just by using their service.
Want to Go Skiing? Plan, Plan, Plan:
For skiers and snowboarders, having a few days in Breckenridge and not hitting the slopes is an act of crime. But, some merely turn up and waste a lot of their time because of a lack of planning and preparation. Don’t fall into the same trap and make sure you get everything ready before you get to the ski lift.Think about renting your equipment the night before and get it all ready for the morning. You can also get ski lift passes in advance so that all you need to do is wake up and make your way over to the mountain. If you haven’t skied in a while, you may also want to take advantage of the instructors to brush up your skills. Ski school is popular, and it’s a great way to feel confident again after a long time away from the pistes.
Learn the History:
Did you know that Breckenridge was once a gold mining town in the last 19
th century? You can still see the remnants and legacy of this in the town today. The buildings lining the streets on Main Street are at least 100 years old. As you’re out and about, it’s easy to imagine how the area would have looked all those years ago. Some of the old houses were restored and many now house museums, galleries or arts and craft shops. Visiting gives you a different experience and a chance to understand what Breckenridge is all about.You can also take a historical tour of the town with a guide who can explain what you’re seeing along with a few stories thrown in too. Just make sure you follow the points above about staying warm and protecting yourself from a sunburn before spending a few hours exploring historical Breckenridge!
A Winter Wonderland in Breckenridge:
A Christmas holiday to Breckenridge is sure to be unforgettable. Snowy weather in a charming mountain town makes it a perfect destination to come with your partner or family. But, don’t fall into the typical traps. Prepare for the altitude, the cold and protect yourself from the sun. Take the time to learn about the town and your dream trip will be everything you could ask for.
