The Chateaux Blog

​The moment Lance Rentrios stepped foot in Stein Eriksen Lodge, he knew he belonged.

“I came here for my birthday to visit, and I didn’t want to leave. I felt at home. I just fell in love, and I wanted to be a part of this. Mariam was my server, and I told her that I was going to work here one day. Years later, it happened.”

Lance serves as a bartender and server in Cena Ristorante & Lounge at The Chateaux Deer Valley. He also assists in banquets at both Stein Eriksen Lodge and The Chateaux. It’s not surprising that Lance feels so at home in the Stein community. His stepdad was a bellman here for twenty-three seasons, and his mom served on the security team. Not only is Lance honored to continue this family tradition, but he is drawn to the legacy of excellence these properties uphold.

“I want to do the best and work for the best. I do what I love, and I love to serve others. That’s what makes me happy. I got my foot in the door with Stein, and it’s been the best two years of my life.”

Lance stood up and demonstrated the proper technique for seamlessly clearing plates, describing the small but meaningful details that contribute to flawless service in every interaction.

“I take it very seriously. If you’re going to do something, you do it. Simply balancing a glass on a tray takes effort. The only reason I’m good at it is because I practiced at home on my own time.”

That’s not the only skill he diligently practiced. He memorized every detail of the menu. He learned all he could and more. He pairs this skill set with an unwavering dedication to personalized service. He keeps a notebook with guests names and special notes, allowing him to anticipate their preferences every time.

“When they return, they don’t ask for anything. I anticipate everything. And if it’s their birthday, I send them a card. If it’s Christmas, I send them a picture of our team out in the snow making a snowman. Now they feel like part of The Chateaux family, and they’re going to tell their friends. I like that.”

Lance’s passion for his career extends beyond the workplace. When asked what he enjoys doing in his free time, Lance replied,

“For me, it’s food and beverage. That’s my passion. That’s what I love to do.”

He’s especially fond of French cuisine, and he enjoys cooking dinner for his family every night. As a devoted family man and father of four young children, his greatest joy is fatherhood.

“My life is all about them. There is nothing more important to me than them just being confident and successful young people. That’s all I want.”

Working for Stein Collection and living in the Park City area has allowed him the freedom and flexibility to spend more time with his family.

“Here, there’s an extra level of support that we’re not used to. I felt welcomed right away. I love the company. I feel like I’m part of the community now. I don’t have plans of going anywhere any time soon.”

When Lance was recently awarded the prestigious recognition of Stein Collection Employee of the Year, it was not the first time. He was awarded Employee of the Year at Mandarin Oriental and Ritz Carlton before his employment here. He works very, very hard every day, and it shows. Lance has received many personal letters from guests and residents thanking him for his kindness and service.

When asked about the honors and recognition he has received over the years, Lance simply replied,

“I just want my kids to be proud of me.”

Each of our team members has a story, and we hope to share them with you through our “Behind the Chateaux” posts. It is the warmth and dedication of exceptional team members like Lance who truly bring life to the Stein Collection properties. Be sure to say hello to Lance next time you stop in at The Chateaux Deer Valley.

​

Imagine what Park City must have been like in the early days- rowdy prospectors, courageous settlers, and the bustling dawn of a new township. This captivating place has grown from a lawless mining town to a world-renowned destination, attracting famous athletes, artists, and filmmakers alike.

In order to learn more about the heritage of the town we love, we decided to stop by Park City Museum. We’re so glad we did! Park City has undergone countless seasons of change and development, but it has always been a truly extraordinary place. Here’s what we learned on our historical outing.

                 Park City was officially founded in 1884, but its history began long before that. Dating all the way back to 1600 A.D, this area was home to Native American bands that traveled the high alpine valleys in search of game. The first European settlers were a ragtag bunch of miners prospecting for silver. Unlike the rest of Utah, which was settled by Mormons seeking religious freedom, Park City was founded by these early prospectors.   
             Brigham Young arrived at his “City by the Salt Lake” decades earlier in 1847. By 1862, Salt Lake City was a booming establishment built on Mormon doctrine. Civil War Union General Patrick Connor was wary of the Mormon populous. He feared they would side with the Confederate Army. He sent Union Troops out to monitor the Mormons and to prospect. He hoped that if the soldiers discovered valuable minerals, a flood of prospecting outsiders would dilute the Mormon majority.    
              Just as Connor had hoped, in late October of 1869, after seven years of prospecting, the soldiers ascended the mountains of Big Cottonwood Canyon and discovered silver in what is now Park City. They marked the outcropping with a bandanna and resolved to return in the more temperate spring. They later named this first mine Flagstaff.
                 That same year, railroad workers completed The Transcontinental Railroad in Promontory, Utah. They marked the joining of the Central Pacific and Union Pacific railroads with a golden spike that can still be visited today. With the railroad complete, some of these laid off workers, many of whom were Chinese, made their way to Park City. By 1870, the population was a mere 164 people, and it would be be another decade before the town officially became incorporated.
           With the discovery of exceedingly rich silver ore, Ontario Mine opened, and Park City developed into a mining boomtown. George Hearst, the father of William Randolph Hearst, and partners bought the Ontario for $27,000 dollars. Over the course of its lifetime, Ontario would produce $50 million dollars worth of silver.
               By 1875, Park City had its own public schoolhouse. Five years later, it had a newspaper. The Park Record printed it’s first issue in 1880, making it the oldest continuously published newspaper in Utah. By 1881, Park City acquired a telephone service. Telephone operator girls had the most glamorous job in town! As Park City grew, so did the booming silver industry.  
            Finally in 1884, Park City officially became incorporated, and they began constructing a City Hall. The town’s population reached 5,000 by 1889. Backed by the successful mines, residents of this bustling silver town enjoyed the modern luxury of electric lights. Parkites loved reading Park Record gossip columns detailing the lives of socialites who made their millions on the mines. One such resident, Susanna Bransford Emery Holmes, was better known as the “Silver Queen.” In 1892, she was making $1,000 a day from her interest in the Silver King Mine.
              Within a decade, the population doubled. By 1898, 10,000 residents called Park City home. In June of that year, the worst fire Park City has ever seen destroyed 200 of the town's 350 structures. It left 500 homeless and caused $1 million dollars in property damage. The resilient residents completely rebuilt Park City within a year and a half.
         In the early 1900s, miners rallied together to build Park City’s first hospital. It was much needed given the harsh mining conditions workers faced every day. Cave-ins, floods, and rickety infrastructures made mining a very dangerous trade. Minors were a rowdy bunch who frequented the twenty-seven local bars. With Prohibition in 1917, bootlegging became very popular. Prohibition was frustrating, but real hardships plagued residents leading into the 1930s-  a great influenza epidemic, labor unrest, and a terrible stock market crash in 1929. Silver King stock plummeted, and the miner’s livelihoods were in jeopardy. With WWII and plunging mineral prices in the 1940s, silver mining dwindled. By 1949, all the mines shut down.
         Park City in the 1950’s became increasingly known as a ghost town with a bad reputation for drinking, gambling and “giddy girls.” The town needed a big change if it was going to survive and prosper. Over the decades, many locals had enjoyed skiing and ski jumping, but it wasn’t until the late fifties that the notion of skiing as a viable industry seemed possible.
           In 1963, Park City qualified for a federal loan that allowed them to start developing a ski area. That first year, the resort accommodated almost 50,000 skiers a day, and so it began!  With this new sustainable industry in place, Park City has grown and flourished into the ski destination we know today, but those early mining days will forever be a part of Park City’s adventurous past.

Thank you to The Park City Historical Society and Museum for doing such a beautiful job of preserving Park City’s historic heritage.  Their exceptional museum and easily accessible records make learning about Park City easy and fun.

To experience the museum for yourself, stop by 528 Main Street, call (435) 649-7457 or visit the website.

​

We’re reflecting on the historic moments that have built Stein Collection- beginning with the achievements of the great man himself, the establishment of the flagship property, and The Chateaux Deer Valley’s development into an iconic property in its own right.

1927- On December 11th, a legend is born. Marius and Brigit Eriksen welcome a baby boy in Oslo, Norway. They name him Stein.  
1949- At just 22 years old, Stein is Norway’s Slalom Champion.
1952- Stein wins the gold medal in Giant Slalom and the silver medal in Slalom at the Olympic Winter Games in his hometown, Oslo, Norway. He is the first alpine ski racer from outside the Alps to win an Olympic gold medal.
1970s - Stein moves to Park City, Utah. 
1981 - Deer Valley Resort opens, where Stein serves as Director of Skiing for 35 years.
1982- Stein is inducted into the National Ski Hall of Fame.
1982 - Stein Eriksen Lodge opens in December of 1982.
2000 - The Chateaux at Silver Lake opens in January of 2000.
2005- The Residences at The Chateaux open in December of 2005.
2008 - Stein Eriksen Lodge earns the coveted Forbes Five-Star award, making it Utah’s first hotel to receive this award. The Lodge has maintained this Five-Star status ever since.  
2009- Stein Collection begins managing The Chateaux Deer Valley and The Residences at The Chateaux Deer Valley. 
2010-  The Chateaux opens an on-site spa, Le Spa and on-site dining, Cena Ristorante and Lounge.
2011- Cena Ristorante earns the Wine Spectator Award of Excellence, which it has maintained ever since.  
2015- Stein Eriksen passes away at the age of 88. We celebrate his legacy every year on Stein Day, December 11th- which was his birthday.
2015- The Chateaux Deer Valley is awarded Forbes Four-Star status, which it has maintained ever since.
 
As a member of Stein Collection, The Chateaux Deer Valley is so much more than a hotel property. It’s a tribute to an extraordinary man, a workplace to hundreds of dedicated employees, and a retreat for thousands of happy guests who return year after year. Each of us work to uphold the legacy of this remarkable place where mid-mountain luxury is redefined.

​As the days get longer and the nights warmer, our bustling ski town transforms into a peaceful spring haven, marked by temperate weather, the sweet fragrance of floral trees in bloom, and a quiet serenity falls over Historic Main Street. For a special getaway, come experience this year-round destination as the locals do. Here are a few of our favorite activities. 
​
​ 

Explore Olympic History
 
Home to the 2002 Winter Olympics, the Utah Olympic Park is a must-see attraction all year round, featuring daily guided tours, two free museums, and thrill-seeking activities.
 
The Alf Engen Ski Museum and the Olympic Games Museum showcase a collection of interactive displays, including a virtual reality ski theater, games, and topographical maps. Our favorite Olympian also happens to be represented throughout the Ski Museum. Be sure to check out the Stein Eriksen Exhibit.
 
If you’re feeling adventurous, strap into one of the exciting adventure courses or brave the drop tower. For more information, see the full list of additional activities opening Memorial Day Weekend.     ​

​

Shop the Outlets
 
Tanger Outlets has all your favorite brands at discounted rates. Find end-of-season winter bargains, or be the first to strut specialty items from the new summer lines.
 
While you’re perusing the shops, we recommend stopping in Nuzzles & Co Pet Rescue and Adoption Center. The friendly volunteers welcome visitors, and the rescue kittens and puppies love making new friends. ​

​

​Get Outside 
 
Spring is the perfect time to embrace the fresh mountain air and explore the outdoors. Head over to the Provo River for some quality fly fishing in the blue ribbon streams, explore our local nature preserve at the Swaner EcoCenter, or play a round of golf at Promontory Club.
 
Allow our knowledgeable Front Desk team to book your activities to ensure you make the most of your time here. 
435-658-9500
 
Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort are hard at work preparing to launch their summer operations, but in the meantime, they’re cherishing the tranquility of springtime.
 
“I enjoy rediscovering Park City after a busy ski season. It's fun to watch the mountain transform from winter to spring and into summer. It's just a wonderful time to be in Park City.”
 -  Ryan Mayfield, Content and Social Media Manager at Deer Valley Resort 
 
Deer Valley Resort kicks off their summer operations June 15th. The world-renowned Utah Symphony has an exciting lineup set to grace the Snow Park Amphitheater June 30th through August 11th.
 
Over at Park City Mountain Resort, they’re enjoying the warmer weather, and looking forward to hitting the hiking trails.
 
“The ski lifts have stopped turning, but don’t worry, the outdoor fun in Park City definitely doesn’t end when the slopes close for the season! As we head into May, I love watching the scenery across town change from snowy white to vibrant green. There are plenty of trails that dry up pretty quickly in the Spring and are ready for hiking earlier than you might expect. I love hiking off of the Spring Creek Trailhead and watching the early season wildflowers pop up.”  
-  Jessica Miller, Senior Communications Specialist at Park City Mountain Resort 
 
Park City Mountain Resort’s summer activities open May 25th.
 
For more guidance on making the most of your spring in Park City, stop by the Park City Visitor Information Center for a cup of locally ground coffee and some friendly advice.
Of course, our team is always happy to help customize your perfect stay.
435-658-9500
 
Be sure to take advantage of all the exciting spring promotions we’re currently offering.
For a full list of Spring specials, click here.
 
This lovely time of year has so much to offer! Come experience it all this spring and stay updated on upcoming activities and events here. We’ll see you in Park City soon!
 ​

The arrival of Springtime brings warmer weather, sweet renewal, and of course, the close of another amazing ski season.
 
Be sure to come out for the final days of spring skiing, après and closing day festivities. For an intimate après experience, head over to The Chateaux’s Cena Lounge, or Stein Eriksen Lodge’s Troll Hallen. Enjoy a seasonal selection of spirits and lively entertainment from talented local musicians
 
If you’re looking for a larger venue, Park City’s two world-class ski resorts, Deer Valley Resort and Park City Mountain Resort, are both offering free concerts to celebrate a successful winter and welcome spring.  ​
​

 Deer Valley: Edgar’s Beer and Spirits Lounge
 
Location: Snow Park Village
Time: 3-6pm
​
Schedule:
 
Thursday, April 5- Dueling Pianos
 
Friday, April 6- Kyle May
 
Saturday, April 7- Lash LaRue
 
Sunday, April 8- Muddpuddle

Last week, we sat down with the esteemed Chef Chris Wellmon, Executive Chef of Cena Ristorante at The Chateaux Deer Valley, in hopes that he might divulge one of his beloved recipes. He agreed to share a local favorite, his famous Salsa Verde sauce. This is a truly versatile sauce that pairs nicely with a variety of different dishes and is super easy to make.
 
“It goes well on everything- grilled vegetables, chicken, shrimp, beef dishes. I can’t find anything it doesn’t go well with.”
-Chris Wellmon
 
Chef Wellmon’s Salsa Verde:
8-10 portions
Ingredients:
8 anchovy filets
1 lemon
2 TBS parsley leaves
1 TBS chives
½ cup extra virgin olive oil
 
Steps:

1. Pat the anchovies dry, place in a bowl.
2. Using a grater or micro blade, zest the lemon into the bowl.
3. Add parsley, chives, and olive oil.
4. Using a wand mixer or blender, puree the ingredients until smooth.
5. Toss this sauce into a pasta, finish a steak, or drizzle over garden tomatoes.

 
This delectable sauce is currently offered on the Seared Yellowfin Tuna dinner dish at Cena Ristorante. If you’d like to taste Chef Wellmon’s flavorful sauce before attempting the recipe at home, stop by or make a reservation at 435-940-2200.
 
Follow our blog for more recipes, behind-the-Chateaux insider stories, and more.

The time has finally come to introduce your little ones to the joy of skiing, but where to begin?
​
Choosing the right ski school can be a big decision. You want their first-time experience to be memorable, fun, and engaging, in hopes that next time they’ll be eager to join you. Here are a few reasons Deer Valley, a ski-only resort, is the best place to start your ski adventures off right with the whole family:

• Welcoming, Easily-Accessible Terrain: This expansive resort extends the length of six mountains with over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, 21 lifts, and 101 runs- 27% of which are rated for beginners. Their website offers a Children’s Adventure Map filled with fun trails and discoveries for kids to explore, such as Candyland, the Enchanted Forest, and Quincy’s Cabin.

 

• Expert Instructors: All Deer Valley Resort ski instructors are certified in The Gold Standard of Instruction, which guarantees personalized, engaging, and educational training by qualified professionals. If your children learn the proper techniques right away, they won’t have to invest in correcting bad habits down the line.

 
Children’s instructors are especially enthusiastic and love to make learning fun. Ski school lessons incorporate additional activities, such as hot cocoa, snow cone parties, and scavenger hunts.

• Kid-Friendly Mascots: Bucky the Deer, Quincy the Bear, Ruby the Raccoon, and Silver the Eagle can all be found skiing around the mountain, encouraging children to have fun, and offering friendly safety advice. The characters are also featured in the Adventure Map and cartoon caricatures can be spotted around the mountain.

 

• Jumbo Cookies: Last but not least, children and adults alike can appreciate this classic treat. There’s no better way to end a perfect ski day than with a sweet, crumbly, world-famous chocolate chip cookie. It’s sure to put a smile on everyone’s face!

 
Advance reservations for ski lessons are highly recommended. For more information, check out the Deer Valley Resort website or call 435-645-6648 to speak with an agent.
 
The Chateaux Deer Valley is located mid-mountain, allowing for easy access on and off the slopes. Deer Valley Resort ski school is just five minutes away at the base of the resort. Our complimentary shuttle will drop you at the base, making it even easier for you to get to your little ones to their lesson. And, our onsite ski rental and gear shop can fully outfit you for your lesson beforehand.
 
Now get out there and share this fun winter sport with your whole family!

Park City welcomes guests from around the world to experience our famous powder and world-class skiing, but this historic town has so much more to explore! This vibrant winter destination has opportunities for every outdoor enthusiast, and even those who prefer to stay indoors too. We’re celebrating all Park City has to offer with a special Winter Variety Package.
 
Here’s how it works: Book 2 or more nights and receive a $300 resort credit to use onsite or on local area winter activities.
 
The $300 resort credit is good towards:

• Onsite dining at Park City’s authentic Italian restaurant, Cena Ristorante & Lounge
• Onsite spa services at Le Spa
• Onsite ski rentals from Ski ‘N See
• Local area winter activities booked through our onsite concierge

Here’s a round-up of our favorite local area activities to explore:
 
Dog Sledding: Meet the experienced dog-sled teams and head off on a thrilling ride into a snow-laden winter wonderland. See Park City’s backcountry hills and terrain, areas you normally would not get to explore!

• Preferred vendors: Luna Loboa, North Forty Escapes

 
Fly Fishing: Enjoy a fly-fishing tour with a professional and passionate guide along the beautiful Provo River. Even beginners will enjoy this activity!

• Preferred vendors:  Utah Pro, Trout Tales

 
Sleigh Rides: Depart from the iconic Stein Eriksen Lodge for a picture perfect horse drawn carriage journey through snowy Deer Valley Resort. It’s perfect for couples and families alike!

• Vendor: Boulder Mountain Ranch

 
Snowmobiling: Explore Utah’s stunning natural beauty in a guided tour or rent your own snowmobile to adventure your way through the majestic mountains and powder-covered landscapes.

• Preferred vendors: Summit Meadows Adventures, North Forty Escapes, Red Pine Adventures

 
Utah Olympic Park: Take an unforgettable ride down the 2002 Winter Olympics bobsled track, climb across the adventure course, jump off the 65-foot drop tower, or explore the Alf Engen Museum. This is a must for the thrill seekers!
 

Our Concierge team is informed on all Park City activities and events. We love helping plan your adventure and make the most of your time in Park City. You can easily book your getaway here, then contact our Concierge directly at (435) 645-6460 to plan your activities.

Still looking for the perfect way to celebrate your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day? We’ve got you covered! Our French-inspired property, The Chateaux Deer Valley, is the perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Nestled mid-mountain in the heart of Deer Valley Resort, this cozy retreat is tailored for two.
 
Choose from a selection of special services and amenities, and our dedicated team will take care of the rest.

• Rose Petal Turn-Downs
• Champagne Room Deliveries
• Chocolate Covered Strawberries Room Deliveries
• Macaroon Room Deliveries
• Signature Spa Treatments
• Authentic Italian Dining at Cena Ristorante & Lounge
• Romantic Soak in the Hot Tub 
• Room Service

 
​Devote all your attention to your sweetheart this Valentine’s Day, and our team will be sure to pamper you both!