The Dawn of a Treasured Odyssey

Four years ago, just before the world changed in ways we couldn’t have imagined, we found ourselves standing before what would become our family’s cherished mountain retreat—a condo nestled within the majestic, snow-capped Purcell Mountains of British Columbia. It was love at first sight, a connection that felt both inevitable and profound.

Investing in this property nudged us out of our comfort zone, but the opportunity to share this venture with close friends made the leap more manageable. Yes, the strata fees were daunting at first, but the promise of a stress-free, all-inclusive experience reassured us that the investment was worthwhile.

Our timing, close to the onset of the pandemic, presented its own set of challenges. However, the pandemic also brought unexpected opportunities, such as extended stays made possible by flexible work arrangements and hybrid learning models. Over the past four years, this mountain haven has evolved from a simple getaway into a beloved retreat where our family has created countless memories—watching our children transform from novice skiers into confident adventurers on those breathtaking slopes.

The Heartbeat of Our Mountain Escape

From the moment we began our regular visits, the rituals of our retreat became woven into the fabric of our lives. The reception area of the main building welcomed us with a warmth and community spirit that was hard to resist. Here, the walls were lined with pamphlets, maps, and magazines, offering insights into the surrounding area and activities.

An inviting corner stocked with books, games, and DVDs—donated by past guests—quickly became a favorite spot for our children. My son, fascinated by the novelty of physical DVDs in a streaming world, would excitedly peruse the collection, while my daughter eagerly planned her next board game challenge. These shared resources not only added to the communal feel but also eased our packing, knowing that entertainment awaited us on arrival.

The pool, too, became a highlight of our stays. Swimming amidst falling snow, followed by a soak in the hot tub, was a surreal and rejuvenating experience that never failed to delight.

But our condo was more than just a property. It became the backdrop for some of our most treasured family memories. The small but charming gym, the events room with its untapped potential, and even the quirky fireplace in our unit contributed to the sense of coziness and comfort that made this place feel like a true home away from home.

Winds of Change: Reimagining Our Mountain Escape

Like any long-term relationship, our connection with this mountain retreat has evolved over time. Subtle shifts have started to reshape our experience, hinting at a broader transformation underway. The reception area, once a lively social hub, now feels quieter, almost subdued. The sense of community that once defined this space seems to be fading, replaced by a more transactional atmosphere that leaves us yearning for the warmth of the past.

The pool, once a source of unbridled joy, now operates on a tighter schedule, leading to overcrowding and diminishing the experience. These changes, though gradual, have begun to alter the very essence of our retreat.

The pandemic, which briefly paused our visits, has largely receded as a disruptive force. Yet, it left behind new ways of living and working that continue to shape our experiences. The rise of flexible work arrangements allowed us to extend our stays, transforming our condo into more than just a vacation spot—it became a home and an office wrapped in the natural beauty of the Purcell Mountains.

But even as we’ve adapted, the resort seems to be lagging in its response to these changes. While the physical infrastructure remains well-maintained, the energy devoted to creating memorable experiences seems to have waned. As someone who regularly consults on strategic change, I recognize the signals that indicate a need for evolution.

The pandemic was a major change driver, but it’s our changing behaviours that are the clearest signals that should not be ignored.

The Future of Our Mountain Retreat: Opportunities for Renewal

This is a moment ripe with potential for our resort to reassess and rejuvenate. Imagine if the management recognized these shifts and responded by tailoring experiences and incentives to meet the evolving preferences of its patrons. An updated loyalty program for frequent guests, workation packages that blend work and leisure, and new partnerships with local businesses could transform the resort into a more vibrant, appealing destination.

My brother and sister-in-law, who own a cabin in Golden, BC, have navigated these changes with remarkable success. They’ve embraced modern technology, using social media and AI to streamline bookings, automate guest communications, and enhance the overall experience. Their cabin offers unique features like a hand-shoveled luge track, a rustic children’s fortress, and a fire-heated bathtub with stunning views—all additions that cost little but offer priceless memories for their guests.

Their approach highlights the power of adaptation and innovation. It’s led me to reflect on how our cherished mountain retreat could catch the wave of change, embracing new technologies and reimagining its offerings to better align with the needs of today’s guests.

Charting a Path Forward

To truly revitalize our mountain condo, we need to take stock of several key areas:

Physical Elements: Our location, nestled on a prime ski hill, is undeniably beautiful, but the interiors of the condo units could benefit from a refresh. The reception area, once a vibrant hub, now feels like it’s lost its charm. The fitness center, while quaint, is in dire need of modern equipment. The pool’s restricted hours have led to overcrowding, diminishing its appeal. There’s a clear need for thoughtful upgrades that blend modern comfort with rustic mountain charm, much like the successful Samsara and Solara resorts in Canmore.

Technology: The world has seen a tech boom, and the hospitality sector is no exception. Our management needs to leverage technology more effectively, from self-check-in kiosks to intuitive booking systems. Imagine a community app that serves as an information hub, social platform, and concierge service all in one. Embracing these tools could dramatically enhance the guest experience.

Human Touch: The essence of any great resort is its people. From the warm welcome at reception to the friendly interactions with housekeeping and maintenance staff, the human touch is what turns a stay into an experience. It’s vital that our management prioritizes this aspect, ensuring that every guest feels valued and cared for.

Financial Aspects: As owners, we must also consider the financial health of our investment. Transparent communication, efficient cost management, and strategic reinvestment are all essential to maintaining and enhancing the value of our property. A proactive approach to marketing, coupled with dynamic pricing strategies, could ensure high occupancy rates and sustained returns.

Embracing Change and Moving Forward

In conclusion, our journey with our mountain condo has been one of both joy and reflection. While we’ve cherished our time here, it’s clear that the resort needs to evolve to keep pace with the changing world. By embracing modern technology, enhancing the guest experience, and staying attuned to industry trends, our beloved retreat can continue to thrive.

This journey is just beginning, and we’re excited to see where it leads. We hope our insights will serve as a valuable guide for other condominium resorts facing similar challenges. Together, we can navigate this dynamic industry and create lasting memories in the heart of the Purcell Mountains.