If you are used to thinking of Sunriver as just a Summer playground, think again. One of our favorite holiday retreats is Sunriver. Staying at the resort this time of year is truly magical for families. The rustic lodge is all decked out in lights and spangled trees, and they offer a ton of fantastic activities during “Traditions” in November and December:
Grand Illumination and Santa’s Arrival: The crowd is treated to Victorian carolers, fireworks and the sudden illumination of Christmas lights on the grounds, just before the Grinch(!) threatens to steal away Christmas. Luckily, Santa is hot on his heels on his sleigh with Mrs. Claus. Children have an opportunity to take pictures and give Santa their list. My kids loved the opportunity to stay out after dark and get a peek at “how Santa gets here”. Great for all ages.
Breakfast with Santa: We’ve checked out a lot of Santa Breakfasts but this was one of the best. The food was excellent and varied, with a good mix of hearty, healthy options (baked salmon and asparagus, salads), decadence (eggs benedict, pork loin with maple bourbon cream) and all out treats (pies, cookies, mousse parfaits galore!). This was also a great alternative to seeing Santa at the mall, the kids got plenty of time with him, and it felt very personal and unrushed. The real gem, though, was Mrs. Claus. Even my 9-year-old who isn’t much of a “believer” these days had to admit that the real Mrs. Claus was there. The 5-year-old was most impressed that all the servers were elves. He even slipped his Santa list to the elves that he made while he was eating, and they spirited it off to Santa with a wink.
Elf Tuck-In: Speaking of elves, what could be better than one of Santa’s elves reading you a bedtime story and tucking you in? Nothing, that’s what. My kids have been talking about it ever since. Our elf was the incredibly energetic “Gumdrop”. Seriously, this was one of the coolest Christmas things we’ve ever experienced. If you go, don’t miss it.
Sleigh Rides: I grew up in Manhattan so a real Sleigh Ride to me sounds about as mythical as a unicorn. In fact, the song “Jingle Bells” really never made any sense to me. Truly, I can’t think of anything more magical than riding in a horse drawn “open” sleigh through the snow, can you?
Sunriver Resort Traditions runs November 27th to New Years Day. They offer special rates starting at $119 per night and a special package for New Years.
