As winter approaches, it’s tempting to curl up with a mug of cocoa, and just watch the snowflakes falling outside. Some people are content to warm themselves by a blazing fire for the duration of the season, while others are thrilled to venture out into the snow, providing that they can return to a cozy spot après-ski.

The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant caters to both types of individuals. Located in Taos Ski Valley, right next to one of the ski lifts, it’s ideal for anyone looking to refuel or rest after a tiring day on the slopes. However, the chalet’s Alpine architecture and homey ambience also appeal to those lured here by the promise of a destination restaurant with killer mountain views.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

The Bavarian’s restaurant serves authentic German cuisine in a decidedly European environment.

Yelp/Donna S.

Both the lodge and restaurant are decorated with Bavarian antiques. The beautiful fireplace and sheepskins add to the cozy vibe.

Yelp/Dee K.

The servers do their part to keep the Bavarian illusion alive.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

The restaurant menu changes seasonally, but classic dishes like the Wienerschnitzel (a Viennese-style pork cutlet) and Jägerschnitzel (breaded pork with mushroom gravy), and the sausage plate are usually available.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

If you’ve yet to try Spätzle – Bavarian pasta – you’re in for a treat. Also keep an eye out for fondue night.

Yelp/David O.

You’ll want to pair your food with one of the many German beers on offer.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

Finish off your meal with a decadent slice of apple strudel.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

Although the outdoor patio is always popular in summer…

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

…Some hardy patrons enjoy it year round.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

If you’d like to hibernate at the Bavarian, simply check into one of the three distinctive, themed suites!

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

The King Ludwig Suite boasts a canopied, king-sized bed, a Jacuzzi tub, and a balcony with views of Kachina Peak. It’s named for a quirky Bavarian king.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

He built this edifice in his native Germany.

Flickr/Kate Ure Neuschwanstein Castle probably looks familiar, either because you’ve visited Bavarian or because you’ve explored Disneyland, where Walt Disney constructed a replica.

The Neuschwanstein Suite can sleep eight. While not quite as grand as its namesake, it isn’t already occupied by an eccentric king - a definite plus! The suite is filled with antiques and a trompe-l’oeil painting.

Fancy a romantic getaway? Then book the whimsical Lola Montez Suite.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

Can you picture yourself in this winter wonderland? The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant opens for the winter season on Thanksgiving. (Call (888) 205-8020 to reserve a hotel room or to make a restaurant reservation).

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

This destination hotel and restaurant is located at 100 Kachina Road, Taos Ski Valley. That’s close to the Williams Lake Trail – a stunning day hike.

Facebook/The Bavarian Lodge and Restaurant

Yelp/Donna S.

Yelp/Dee K.

Yelp/David O.

Flickr/Kate Ure

Neuschwanstein Castle probably looks familiar, either because you’ve visited Bavarian or because you’ve explored Disneyland, where Walt Disney constructed a replica.

To get in the winter spirit, check out these snowy scenes in New Mexico.

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