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Critics Choice Vacations

Montana-Sage Lodge
Like so many other parents this Fall, my husband and I became “Empty Nesters”. Our baby girl, and youngest of three was heading off to college and we were faced with the reality of being alone for the first time in 26 years. We decided that this was a life milestone that we should observe, rather than dread. We had spent years devoting endless time and energy to our children and now they were all out in the world as healthy, happy, productive members of society. We had much to celebrate. So, after dropping our daughter off at college we traveled to Montana’s Paradise Valley and spent a few days at Sage Lodge to mark this special occasion. Montana’s Paradise Valley starts near Livingston, which sits on I-90, and stretches south along highway 89 towards Yellowstone National Park. It is the major river valley of the Yellowstone River and is flanked by the Gallatin and Absaroka Ranges. Highway 89 was the original entrance into Yellowstone National Park, although there are now two additional entrances, one each in Montana and Wyoming. Along with its unmatched beauty and world-class fly fishing on the river, the valley also offers other natural wonders such as several natural hot springs.

Sage Lodge, a Montana luxury resort, sits nestled in the heart of Paradise Valley near the banks of the Yellowstone river and beckons adventure seekers and rejuvenators alike. It is an idyllic headquarters from where you can launch a day of fly fishing, hiking, biking, white-water rafting, hunting, cross-country skiing…or spend a day of relaxation and pampering in the full-service Spa. The resort offers 34 Lodge guest rooms, along with four Ranch Houses all circling a private, serene lake. It is a great destination for couples, families and multi-generational family gatherings. 

The Lodge rooms deliver pure Montana ambience with rich fabrics, natural woods and unbeatable “Big Sky” views. Lodge King rooms offer the ultimate in comfort. Ideal for getting cozy by the gas fireplace or stepping out onto your balcony or patio to take in the beauty of Paradise Valley. Each room includes one king bed, a gas fireplace, walk-in shower, and a separate sitting area with a queen pullout sleeper sofa. If you are a fan of long, relaxing soaks, book the Lodge Deluxe King room and relax in the fabulous soaking tub. The Lodge Deluxe King or Double Queen rooms offer a free-standing soaking tub and gas fireplace as your respite after a day of exploration. They also feature a window seat or patio, perfect for taking in the stunning Emigrant Peak vistas. The expansive Lodge Paradise King rooms offer more space to entertain with 630 square feet, a wet bar, and private outdoor space showcasing majestic mountain views. If you're planning a group trip to Montana or Yellowstone National Park, the Ranch Houses are tailor made for your stay. With 2,783 square feet, each full Ranch House offers everything you need for a group getaway or retreat, including four separate guestrooms totaling six king beds and two queen pullout sofas, with a private bathroom in each guestroom. All rooms connect to a spectacular space that offers a full kitchen, dining area, living room, double-sided gas fireplace, and private patio with outdoor fireplace. Ranch Houses are ideal for families, a group of friends, or couples and can accommodate up to 16 guests.

At Sage Lodge, you will never be at a loss for something to do. There are many on property activities for guests of ALL age. Be sure to check the Activities Board in the lobby each morning for hiking suggestions, tour options or the Yoga class schedule. The lodge offers lessons in fly-fishing and guests can put their new skills to the test at the private catch & release lake. The afternoons bring lessons in Axe throwing or you can grab a packed lunch and take a Lama for a stroll along the riverbank or through the nearby fields. Upon arrival in your room, guests will find a cooler with an “Open me” sign which is filled with Montana made snacks and beverages. The idea behind the cooler is that guests can carry it with them to any of these activities, or perhaps to the riverbank, or picnic tables near the private lake to enjoy the views and sunsets, while enjoying the treats. Sage Lodge also offers Meeting and Event space in their “Barn”. When you think of meetings and events, rarely does the word “barn” come to mind. Unless you’ve been to a get-together at Sage Lodge. The versatile event facility, affectionately called The Barn, is capable of hosting rustic and elegant weddings, corporate retreats, business meetings, or any other gathering you can think of. The Barn offers a breathtaking setting and grants the must-have conveniences for successful events. Montana is keeping COVID top-of-mind. Per Montana State directives, wearing facial coverings is required while indoors within public spaces, for all individuals aged 5 and older. Although Montana’s COVID numbers have remained relatively low compared to many states, the well-being and health of the Sage Lodge guests, and team members is of paramount importance. You can take comfort in knowing that they have increased their sanitation practices and find comfort in the 1,200 acres out their back door that open directly to Montana’s pure fresh air. Sage Lodge was the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure for me and my husband to celebrate this new life milestone…beautiful views in which to sit and reflect, as well as exciting adventures to propel us forward together. What a beautiful memory we have made together. As a last reminder, when you book through Critics Choice Vacations additional perks and amenities are always included. We look forward to assisting you with your “Big-Sky” Montana and Sage Lodge getaway soon, so that you can celebrate your life milestones and make wonderful memories of your own.



By Engage Team 27 Mar, 2020
Ernest Hemingway once described Switzerland as “a small, steep country, much more up and down than sideways, and stuck all over with large brown hotels built on the cuckoo clock style of architecture.” Susan’s recent travels between Geneva and Zurich proves that a lot has changed in the Swiss hotel scene since Hemingway’s observation. While she has lots of experience setting up pre- and post-river cruise activities and private trips in the area, this “self-imposed” familiarization was to acquaint herself with Virtuoso’s Swiss properties. Susan’s excited to share her thoughts on this diverse list of hotels, as well as the historic cities they call home.
By Engage Team 24 Feb, 2020
This past fall, Susan was invited to sit on the Advisory Board for the German National Tourism Offices out of New York City. In partnership to boost tourism to Germany, she toured two of the country’s most iconic cities. From the eclectic coffee and artistic scenes of Hamburg, to an exploration of the tumultuous history of Berlin, there was a lot to take in. Susan hopes her journey will shed light on why Germany should be the destination of your next European vacation. Below you’ll find some incredible places to stay, cuisine to sample, and experiences that will put the discovery of German culture at the forefront of your travels.
By Engage Team 27 Jan, 2020
With Paris and Rome, London forms the trifecta of must-visit cities for those first taking the dive into European culture. A hub of history, politics, architecture (both very old and very new), and the arts, London has a little bit to offer everyone. This November, Susan had the opportunity to tour over a dozen of the city’s best boutique hotels so you know where to stay during your visit. In addition, Susan also toured some of the charming villages that surround London that are perfect for a day trip, or quick weekend, to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. She hopes her exploration of this British metropolis will help you know where to start when planning your first (or next) European getaway.
By Engage Team 10 Oct, 2019
Good day World Travelers, Exciting news! Critics Choice Vacations has partnered with Vincent’s on Camelback , a James Beard award winning chef in Phoenix for another amazing sailing on Regent’s Seven Seas Voyager Ship for an outstanding agenda to include the following ports of call shown below or in the PDF attached. Regent a luxury small, all-inclusive line will WOW you and bring to life all travel dreams and wishes! You will come away more than refreshed and rejuvenated and in awe of what you have seen and experienced onboard in a luxury all-inclusive fashion. Reservations are being made now and specials for additional $$$ off run through 18OCT. The amount off varies by cabin category. Regent the all-inclusive cruise line: 2-For-1 All-Inclusive Fares FREE Business Class Air* on Intercontinental Flights FREE Unlimited Shore Excursions FREE 1-Night Pre-Cruise Hotel Package† FREE Unlimited Beverages Including Fine Wines and Premium Spirits FREE Open Bars and Lounges PLUS In-Suite Mini-Bar Replenished Daily FREE Pre-Paid Gratuities FREE Specialty Restaurants FREE Transfers Between Airport and Ship FREE Unlimited Wi-Fi *See below for Terms & Conditions. †Applies to Concierge Suites & higher For more details, please click THIS PDF or call any of your friendly Critics Choice Vacations expert advisors for more details. It’s going to be an outstanding sailing with great friends of like mind and passion. Call for more details! Cabin space is filling quickly.
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