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Written By Gabby Anstey
Moab's Red Cliffs Resort is the ideal locale for making the most of any vacation. Resting high on the banks of the Colorado River, amid a surrounding cirque of sheer, 2,000-foot cliffs, Red Cliffs offers dramatic and breathtaking views of Fisher Towers (a mere 10 miles away), the mighty Colorado, Castle Creek and a skyline of rust-hewn buttes and pinnacles. Rooms sit creek side or riverside, each offering private decks for relishing the sounds and sights of the outdoors. The lodge, itself, was modeled after grand national park lodges like those of Yellowstone and Yosemite.

"We offer a sort of rustic elegance," says Red Cliffs owner Colin Fryer. "True to the West but with all the modern-day luxuries."

Red Cliffs Lodge opened in 2002 and is part of Red Cliffs Ranch, one of the older homestead ranches in the area, settled in the late 1800s. The ranch has been a working ranch since that time, and raises cattle and horses today.

Known as Moab's adventure headquarters, Red Cliffs boasts a plethora of activities, ranging from hard-core outdoor adventures to subtle modes of relaxation. The resort hosts a beautiful pool, adjacent to the babbling Castle Creek, and relaxing spa. In addition to tennis and volleyball courts, a mountain biking program and top-notch horseback riding program, there's plenty of rafting, hiking and rock climbing adventures to be found at Red Cliffs Lodge. Moab's national parks are also within minutes from the resort's doorstep and trips can be arranged for groups of all sizes.

One of Red Cliffs unique attractions is its winery. In 2002, the resort relocated the Castle Creek Winery, Utah's largest and oldest winery, onto the premises. Castle Creek has created over 30 award-winning wines, among them being Pinot Noir, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chenin Blanc, Chardonnay and Gewurztraminer. The new facility has a large production area, tasting room and gift shop with tours and tastings weekdays. Upstairs is an immense hospitality room and deck overlooking the Colorado River. This area is capable of ccommodating seminars and parties.

Catering to corporate events is something Red Cliffs does with utmost class. With five corporate rooms, all wired with state-of-the-art technology, conferences and business retreats are well attended. Red Cliffs is also a popular marital site, hosting more than 40 weddings since opening.

As far as dining is concerned, Red Cliffs is a savory treat, offering four-star country American cuisine.

"It's cowboy food with a gourmet flare," says Fryer.

The restaurant features a casual and cozy environment with a massive rock fireplace and authentic paraphernalia from the Old West. It is also terraced to afford each table a spectacular view-the perfect accompaniment to a delicious meal and bottle of local wine.

Red Cliffs Resort is comfortable and friendly environment with every desirable amenity readily available. Whether coming for a quick weekend or full-on vacation, it is a wonderful way to pass the time in canyon country.