The sun darts in and out from behind the clouds. Snow crunches underfoot. White ribbons of ski runs decorate the pine-dotted mountain range in the distance.
This is Vail Valley in the winter.
Long known for its skiing and snowboarding trails, the year-round resort area is a trendy second-home and getaway destination catering to the well-heeled.
Claiming a spot among Vail’s stand-out estates is this mountain contemporary listed at $32 million. Set on more than three-quarters of an acre along Gore Creek, the architectural showplace has a striking exterior combining oak siding, copper and black-zinc panels and buff-colored limestone.
The voluminous interiors have the feel of a modern three-story lodge with stone features, art gallery-size white walls and vaulted wood ceilings. Massive expanses of windows frame towering pines and woodland views.
On the main level, a large cantilevered deck sits off the great room and extends the living space outdoors. Seating surrounds a fire pit.
Both the great room and the dining room have gas fireplaces.
The sleek kitchen, with a massive eat-at island and dark cabinetry, opens to an informal dining area. The gallery-style butler’s pantry continues the kitchen décor.
Two-sided fireplaces can be viewed from the seating and sleeping areas of two of the en-suite bedrooms.
A spiral staircase leads to the lower level gym, which opens to a stone patio with an outdoor spa tub. A wet bar, a game room and a wine cellar are also on this ground floor.
On the upper level, a wide skywalk crosses over a brook. The glass-enclosed room contains a sitting area and connects to one wing the house.
The 11,007 square feet of living space includes six bedrooms, seven full bathrooms and three half-baths.
Among amenities to deal with the elements is a heated paver driveway that leads to the three-car heated garage.
The property backs up to open space and wetlands. Gore Creek, which runs through the town of Vail, is a popular fly-fishing spot.
The listing agents for 333 Beaver Dam Road are Catherine Jones Coburn and Donna Caynoski of Slifer, Smith & Frampton.
In the summer, snowboarders and downhill skiers give way to golfers and hikers. Shops, dining and cultural festivals keep locals and visitors entertained.
Vail is about two hours or 100 miles from Denver International Airport. A closer alternative is Eagle County Airport, some 30 miles away.
