BROWN V.S. THE WILDERNESS: A JACKSON HOLE ADVENTURE

This past June, my 15 year old daughter Finlay and her Brentwood bestie headed out west to spend part of their summer with the team at Wilderness Adventures Camp. I decided to head out early with them for a few days to explore Jackson Hole, a picturesque valley and wilderness recreation area in western Wyoming that borders the jagged peaks of the iconic Grand Tetons. We arrived on American Airlines newest direct route from JFK to JAC in under five hours ( the Klein’s arrived in 2 hours via LAX on United ) to an unprecedented west coast heat wave... 97 degrees, but who is counting?

Jackson is an idyllic paradise year-round, drawing more then 2.6 million visitors annually who come for the epic ski conditions in the winter and to explore glorious Mother Nature’s offerings in the summertime. It is also a gateway to many National Parks.

Over the past few years, the landscape of this Wild West town has added some modern elements and we are not mad about it. While we are big fans of Amangani and Four Seasons, some new boutique hotels have popped up such as Hotel Jackson, Caldera House and the Cloud Veil, alongside creative restaurant concepts and shops.

In true MAPPS fashion, we left no stone unturned and only recommend what we truly loved.

The details below — E

P.S. I had to be dragged home when this trip was over… I seriously could live all summer in Jackson, it was that perfect as was the time with my daughter.

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STAY

Amangani is a 40 suite luxury property in the foothills of the breathtaking Grand Tetons. This beauty is located only 7 minutes from downtown Jackson and 10 minutes from the nearby snow-sports paradise of Jackson Hole Mountain by car.

Amangani looks directly out across the Grand Teton Mountains and plains of the Snake River Valley. Each suite ( 7 categories ) has either a terrace or patio, all have a fireplace and are decorated with a blend of that Amanesque minimalism that they are known for while staying true to the pioneering spirit of the Old Wild Wild West.

It is no wonder this property time and time again is one of our client’s favorite stays in the US #Amanjunkies

Mapps X Amangani: VIP priority upgrade, complimentary daily breakfast and resort credits. #MappsWasHere

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EAT & DRINK

OUR HIT LIST

Downtown Jackson Area

Glorietta ( Italian )

Colette ( farm to table )

Hand Fire Pizza

Snake River Brewery

Teton Tiger ( Thai )

King ( Sushi )

Persephone Bakery ( brunch )

Bin 22 ( wine and tapas )

Local (meat )

Healthy Being Cafe & Juicery ( juice and smoothies )

Teton Village Area

Teton Thai

RPK 3( lunch or apres ski )

Old Yellowstone Garage

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SEE & DO

MAY-SEPTEMBER: Hiking, Mountain Biking, Kayaking, White Water Rafting, Fly Fishing, Rock Climbing, Horseback Riding, Hot Air Balloon Rides, Grand Teton & Yellowstone National Park, Jackson Hole Rodeo, ATV and Clay Shooting.

DECEMBER-APRIL: Skiing, Snowshoeing, Snowmobiling, Dog Sledding, Tubing, Ice Skating, Heli and Cat Skiing and Fat Biking.

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

GETTING HERE: The town of Jackson and Teton Village ( ski mountain area ) are both located roughly 20 minutes from Jackson Hole Airport ( JAC ) by car.

IDEAL GUEST: We love this for anyone who wants to get out and explore the great outdoors, especially families and multi-generational crews who want an active holiday to keep everyone busy.

MAPPS TIP: we highly recommend renting a car as there is so much ground to cover and you do not want to be at the mercy of Uber. We rented ours through Hertz at the airport and it was a seamless process.

*white water rafting photo compliments of Jackson Hole White Water and Wildlife photo compliments of Amangani.

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ON OUR RADAR: THE LODGE AT BLUE SKY

Situated on 3,500 acres of lush ranch land, only 25 minutes outside the ski slopes of Park City, lies The Lodge at Blue Sky, an adventure property for the modern day Annie Oakley. The property is comprised of 46 Scandinavian styled rooms and suites, a farm to table restaurant, a High West Distillery Bar, wine cellar and an expansive spa and pool. Everyday morning begins with a new outdoor pursuit and ends with you ready to pass out in front of the roaring fire. Added bonus… they have created a special Thanksgiving program which includes their annual Thanksgiving Classic Clay Shooting Tournament as well as an exclusive promotional offer.

The details below —

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THANKSGIVING PROGRAM

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25

• 5pm: Welcome Drinks - Kick off the holiday weekend with a specialty, seasonal cocktail as we gather in the Living Room for a celebratory toast.

• 6pm - 7:30pm: Turkey Bingo - Grab your drinks and head to the Wine Room for a game of Turkey Bingo. As with all games come prizes. The winner will receive an intimate meet with Gracie, our hero horse, as well as a 30-minute ride on one of our trained horses. $25++/person. 50% proceeds will go to the Saving Gracie Equine Healing Foundation.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 26 | THANKSGIVING DAY

• 7am - 10am: Breakfast by reservation in YUTA.

• 7:30am - 9:15am: Gratitude Yoga Sequence in the Movement Room - The morning yoga class is a series of intentional poses that kindle gratitude. We will conclude class with a brief meditation. Complimentary for guests. $25++/locals.

• 10am - 6pm: Fall Spa Offerings - Enjoy one of our autumn-inspired treatments in Edge Spa. We'll be offering our signature Whiskey Rubdown Treatment, Autumn-Inspired Sun Soak Journey and Plant-to-Bottle Nourishing Gaia Facial. Price varies.

• All Day: Family scavenger hunt. Complimentary.

• 11am - 1pm: 2nd Annual Thanksgiving Classic Clay Shooting Tournament - Take aim at the sporting life as you test your skills in our 5-stand pavilion and out in the field. $125++/person.

• 5pm - 8pm: Music in the Living Room with curated board games.

• 11am - 8pm: Thanksgiving Dinner by reservation in YUTA - Gather family and friends for a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with Native American influences. $70++/person. $45++ for wine pairing. $40++ children 10 and under. For larger groups inquire about our private dining spaces.

• 9pm: Evening Fall S’mores - A classic campfire treat on the lower terrace of YUTA.

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 27

• 7am - 10am: Breakfast by reservation in YUTA.

• 9am - 10am: Autumn Forest Bathing - Take in the crisp autumn atmosphere with a guided walk through our forest, mindfully noticing the sounds, sights and smells of nature.

• 10am - 12pm: Pumpkin patch with fresh pressed apple cider (apples from our apple tree at The Outpost!) and homemade donuts down at Gracie’s Farm.

• 12pm - 3pm: Leftover Lunch - Chef’s creative reuse of Thanksgiving Dinner - to enjoy the next day for lunch! Special menu.

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 28

• 3pm - Join us in the alpine yurt and learn the craft of cheese boards - all of the cheese vendors are local Utah purveyors. $75++/person with cash bar.

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EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Stay for a minimum of 3 nights or more and receive a $200 per night resort credit to apply to an adventure, wellness or culinary experience. Booking & travel window, now thru December 17th, 2020. Flexible 48-hour cancellation terms.

MAPPS X LODGE AT BLUE SKY: complimentary upgrade, subject to availability, daily breakfast and a $100.00 resort credit. ( This can be coupled with the exclusive offer )

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

GETTING HERE: 45 minutes north of Salt Lake City, UT Airport and 25 minutes north of Park City by car or ten minute heli from the airport for those who want to make an epic arrival.

ACTIVITIES: With the slopes only 25 minutes away, winter conditions call for ski ( heli-ski offered as well ) while summer/fall days are ideal for hiking, mountain biking, ATV rides, fly fishing ( heli-fly offered as well ) clay shooting, horseback riding and an adventure/farm camp for kids.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT: December-March for winter activities and June-November for summer/fall activities.

IDEAL GUEST: We love this for everyone as well as for an exclusive buyout for an epic destination celebration.

P.S. While the lodge is a destination in and of itself, for those who want to explore Park City, we recommend dining at Firewood, Yama Sushi or Harvest.

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THANKSGIVING EDITION: SKIP THE COOKING & TRAVEL INSTEAD

The Thanksgiving holiday for most is traditionally a time of being together at home. Family and friends from near and far gather annually to express their gratitude over turkey, pie and football. This year, the holiday will will look different for many families due to travel restrictions, mandated school quarantines or some having a high-risk family member/s. But, that doesn’t mean that all is lost here — with little to no commitments on the books, now is the perfect time to take that mini Thanksgiving vacation you always dreamed of if your lifestyle permits. We rounded up 3 resorts whose properties shine this time of year, offering guests luxurious accommodations, a host of outdoor activities, an all-American feast, plenty of space for football and what we all need now more then ever… someone else doing all of the cooking and the cleaning for us. The details below —

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THE PRESERVE SPORTING CLUB & RESIDENCES

Richmond, Rhode Island

GETTING HERE: 2.5 hours from NYC by car, 1.5 hours from Boston by car, 40 minutes from Newport, RI by car or arrive via helicopter and land on the club’s new helipad.

ACCOMMODATIONS: 2 – 4 bedroom palatial cabins ranging in size from 1,000 sf to 4,000 sf with ample space to accommodate your family and guests. Stylish interiors inspired by rustic elegance, features include gourmet kitchens, stone fireplaces, theater rooms and outdoor living space.

ACTIVITIES: Hiking, Mountain Biking, ATV, Clay Shooting, Hunting, Fishing, Horseback Riding and Zip-Lining.

MAPPS X THE PRESERVE: Special nightly rates, daily breakfast for two per bedroom and a $100 food and beverage credit.

7 day cancellation policy

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BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN

Walland, Tenneesee

GETTING HERE: 30 minutes from Knoxville's McGhee Tyson Airport by car.

ACCOMMODATIONS: Six Watchman Cabins, 21 Stone Cottages and a variety of multi-bedroom ( 2-5 ) Azalea Gap and Mountain Homes that each feature a full-size kitchen, dining room, living room with stone wood-burning fireplace and an all season screened porch with a second stone wood-burning fireplace.

ACTIVITIES: Endurance climbs, trail running, rock climbing, bouldering, mountain biking, regional fly fishing, horseback riding, lake opportunities such as water slides, kayaking and paddle boarding, an art studio, half basketball court, an indoor rock climbing wall, yoga and fitness classes.

MAPPS X BLACKBERRY MOUNTAIN: Special nightly rates, a complimentary upgrade subject to availability, daily breakfast and spa credits.

30 day cancellation policy

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MONTAGE PALMETTO BLUFF

Bluffton, SC

GETTING HERE: 30 minutes from Savannah, GA Airport by car.

ACCOMMODATIONS: A charming collection of rooms, suites, cottages, cottage suites, and vacation homes all nestled between vibrant waterfronts and tranquil forests. Designed in classic Southern style, these accommodations offer luxurious residential touches such as vaulted ceilings, fireplaces, opulent bathrooms and verandas with stunning views.

ACTIVITIES: Biking, Clay Shooting, Fishing, Boating, Water Sports, Golfing, Tennis, Heated Pool, Archery, Spa, Bowling Alley, Game Room and a Kids Club.

MAPPS X MPB: Special nightly rates, a complimentary upgrade subject to availability, daily breakfast and a $200 resort credit.

48 hour cancellation policy

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THE CLIENT POSTCARD: FAMILY ADVENTURE IN JACKSON HOLE

Hotel: Caldera House, an intimate boutique hotel offering unparalleled access to adventure in a setting to die for. Each of the eight suites is more like a self-contained home than a hotel suite, with a lavish kitchen and living and dining areas in addition to the bedrooms. Half of them are 5,000 square feet with four bedrooms each, plus a copper hot tub on the terrace, and the rest are 1,500 square feet with two bedrooms. 

“ We loved absolutely everything about Caldera House! The spectacular setting, service, style and our accommodations were next level, matched only by the extraordinary attention to every detail of our stay. Always relaxed, never stuffy, our needs were anticipated and met at our every turn. As if whatever we needed, or wanted, was there before we even asked. Being at Caldera was like being at home…only with a full-time staff, dreamy surroundings and luxurious accommodations. It was really hard to leave."

Trip Highlights: 

“The Via Ferrata guided climbing experience was one of the best family activities we’ve ever done and it was right outside the door of Caldera. Rafting along the Snake River was pretty epic (family member going overboard optional) and while the boys golfed, we girls had a private yoga class in our room which was really lovely.”

Dianne’s Tips: 

The fresh waffles at Corbett’s Cabin at the top of the tram on Jackson Mountain. Hard to know what’s better…the view or the waffles. 

Finally, do yourself a favor and don’t leave Jackson without a trip (or two or three) to Persephone. We rented bikes at Caldera and pedaled our way there. SO worth it! Plus you can work off some of the calories you’ll clearly be piling on. Coffees, pastries, breakfast & lunch specials, salads, sparkling rose, cocktails, take & bake treats, gifts for the home…I could go on. Dare you to go just once. 

Editor’s Note: Not only does Dianne have great taste in hotels, she is also an organizational and design genius. Check out her website www.savvy-spaces.com and follow her on insta @savvyspaces99

THE CLIENT POSTCARD: TEEPEES & TEENS IN COLORADO

Editors Note: While we always ask our clients for feedback, we realize that we rarely ask their kids to give us their take as well. Well today that changes. We were thrilled when Grace agreed to take notes and dish on her family’s recent trip to Colorado. Grace has been all over the world so when she recommends something, we listen. Take it away Grace!

Hotel: Dunton Hot Springs, a resort located in an 1800's ghost town amongst an extraordinary alpine valley setting.

“My family and I had a great time at Dunton Hot Springs. Our Vertical log cabin was beautiful and the beds were so comfortable. Coming off a long quarantine, it was so nice to get outdoors and spend all day hiking and fishing, ending each day with some relaxation in their famous hot springs. It was fun getting to know the staff members and other guests each day in the saloon as the property has a very inclusive feel. The food was incredible as well, and we had a great time playing games at night as a family. “

Grace’s tips: Definitely book a private dinner in the tee-pee and the Colorado honey yogurt with granola is not to be missed at breakfast! It was my favorite!

BEHIND THE SCENES: OFF THE GRID AT DEPLAR FARM

Deep in the heart of Northern Iceland’s rugged Troll Peninsula, lies Deplar Farm, the brainchild of private-equity guru Chad Pikone’s group Eleven Experience. Surrounded by mountains, lakes and rivers, the remote location makes the all-inclusive luxury lodge the perfect place for wilderness adventure, exploration and to view those glorious Northern Lights. Like all his properties, Pike’s wife designed Deplar to feel like a home rather then a hotel with a nordic style contemporary design of warm muted earth tones and cozy plush fabrics. The lodge offers all the amenities of a 5* hotel, with an in-house chef, spa and a tailor made itinerary based on the season. A glimpse below…

ACCOMODATIONS

ROOMS: 13 ensuite bedrooms with that can be booked individually or together for exclusive-use of the lodge.

MAPPS’S FAVORITE: Floki and Grettir which is featured below.

DINING & DRINKS

Deplar serves up farm-to-table fare provided by local fishermen and farmers and has an extensive wine cellar. The cozy horseshoe bar is perfect for schnapps and brews after a long day of outdoor adventure.

ACTIVITIES & WELLNESS

While winter weather provides epic conditions for heli-skiing, snowmobiling, dog sledding and fat biking, the warmer month conditions are excellent for fly-fishing, salmon fishing, sea kayaking, white water rafting, surfing, mountain biking, hiking and whale/puffin watching led by a team of expert guides.

Deplar is a wellness wonder that features an indoor/outdoor salt water pool with bar, sauna and steam room, indoor and outdoor hot tubs, 2 flotation tanks, 3 treatment rooms  and a fitness /yoga room.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

GETTING HERE: After landing in Reykjavík ( KEF ) you will need to connect to Akureyri via Iceland’s domestic airport RKV ( the airports are 45 minutes from each other and the flight is 40 minutes ) The team from Deplar will be waiting for you and take you on a scenic 90 minute drive out to the lodge. Please note that in winter, due to weather the ride can take 2 hours.

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT: All year round as each season brings new activities. Oct-Mar is when one can view the Northern Lights.

IDEAL GUEST: Adventure junkies, nature lovers and one with deep pockets to pay the hefty price tag. We love this for everyone, especially as an exclusive buyout for an epic celebration. The property is a haven for kids as the house comes with a pool, Nintendo, PlayStation, foosball and a billard and Ping Pong table. Best to have 4 guests or a multiple of 4 if you want to held-ski as the helicopters can accommodate 4 in each.  

MAPPS X DEPLAR FARM: Special nightly rates as the property is all inclusive.

P.S. We love to add on a stay in Reykjavik pre Deplar to break up the travel. Email us for details.

*photos courtesy of Eleven Experience as our phone pics did not do it justice.

SPECIAL EDITION: THE HARBOUR ISLAND GUIDE

Harbour Island, a British-settled island filled with pink sandy beaches, colorful clusters of buildings, chatty Bahamians and friendly roosters, has long been a secret spot for the barefoot chic crowd who wanted to fall off the radar. Life on island always revolves around the ocean: playing in it, eating and drinking by it, fishing in it and is home to the famous residents and guests such as Elle MacPherson, DVF, Mick Jagger and India Hicks. These days, the tiny 3 mile island, navigated only by foot or golf cart is not on everyone’s radar for a reason… the two flights followed by a car ride and a boat ride to get here. With Coral Sands Hotel completing a much needed renovation, Marysia’s dreamy swimwear collab with The Dunmore and American Airlines adding more lift ( industry term for flights #nerds ) we packed our bags to check out all the buzz for ourselves. Of course, in true Mapps fashion, we brought back all the scoop. Here is our take on Harbour Island…..

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STAY

The new look at Coral Sands

CORAL SANDS : The freshly renovated beachfront resort offers brightly colored spaces, two gourmet restaurants, a tennis court, pool and a gym.

THE DUNMORE: A members-only club turned chic, boutique beach-front hotel with colorful accessories, antiques, a glamorous pool and posh dining. Well behaved children only allowed.

NOTES: Reservations for both hotels are booked 6-9 months in advance and at The Dunmore, the owners save most of the rooms for their friends over holiday weeks. For extended stays we prefer renting a house and MAPPS has a list of vetted properties we love.

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EAT & DRINK

ARTHUR’S BAKERY: Home to the island’s famous banana bread.

COCOA COFFEE HOUSE: Fresh juices, coffee and easy grab and go items such as avocado toast and homemade paninis.

DUNMORE CLUBHOUSE: The place to see and be seen each night. Start with cocktails in their 60s-era style dining room that showcases beautiful vintage photos of the Bahamas and then move to their breezy oceanfront patio for contemporary Mediterranean and live music.

LATITUDE 25 & BEACH BAR: If you cannot score a table at Sip Sip for lunch, grab one here and order their famous chicken sandwich.

QUEEN CONCH: A wooden shack on the bay with a mother-daughter duo that scoops out the conch and chops it up right in front of you. They serve it with sour oranges, hot chilli, fresh tomato, onion and green pepper…. an easy, breezy, no frills lunch.

SIP SIP: The term “sip sip” is local slang for gossip and an island institution. Since 2002, all roads lead their for lunch. Visitors flock in droves to dish on who, what, where over a menu that changes daily based on whats fresh. The lobster quesadilla was epic.

SUNSETS AT RAMORA BAY: the perfect spot to enjoy pre-dinner cocktails with a view. Don’t miss out on their famous “Frozen Goombay Smash” or the live music on Sundays.

THE LANDING: The red-painted walls, glowing candles and 800 bottle wine cellar make this Sunday brunch and dinner hotspot a draw for well-dressed couples and families. We highly recommend the lemon ricotta pancakes and the goat cheese ravioli.

THE ROCK HOUSE: A casual yet elegant dinner spot in the heart of town known for their boneless chicken, freshly caught lobster, red velvet cheesecake and fine wines.

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SEE & DO

HORSEBACK RIDING: Sunset rides on pink sand beach. Look for Marty on the beach, cannot miss him or his animals.

ST. JOHN’S CHURCH: oldest church in the Bahamas.

THE SWIMMING PIGS: Book a 1/2 day private charter and head minutes away to swim with the pigs in Spanish Wells. Have your captain take you to check out the nearby sting rays, the turtles and starfish up at Whales Point, ending with a pit stop for drinks and lunch at The Sand Bar and Grill.

VALENTINE’S DIVE CENTER: daily dives, snorkel trips, deep sea fishing and private charters.

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WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

MAPPS X CORAL SANDS: Special nightly rates, a complimentary upgrade subject to availability, daily breakfast and food and beverage credits.

GETTING HERE: After landing in Eleuthera, travelers take a ten minute car ride to the dock and then a five minute water taxi over to Harbour Island and pick up their golf cart rental. Only those truly committed end up here. 

BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT: November-May

IDEAL GUEST: One who prefers no frills luxury, wants to escape everything… zero itinerary other then sun, surf and cocktails. Perfect for families, or a long weekend weekend getaway for couples or friends.

P.S. The shopping here is pretty great. Don’t miss our favorite haunts:

A & A HIDDEN TREASURES: custom, colorfully embroidered, jute woven totes.

BLUE ROOSTER: Kaftans and rather preppy clothes.

DAKE’S: Men’s and women’s resort wear, home decor, linens and textiles. The handwoven place mats and handcrafted cutting boards were gorgeous.

THE SUGAR MILL: An eclectic mix of treasures from India Hick’s travels around the world.