The Bavarian Lodge & Restaurant Enters Agreement With Taos Ski Valley, Which Will Acquire The Property

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Sep 03, 2014, 12:30 ET

TAOS SKI VALLEY, N.M., Sept. 3, 2014 /PRNewswire/ -- Taos Ski Valley, Inc. today announced that it has entered into an agreement to purchase the treasured Bavarian Lodge & Restaurant, located in the ski valley.

"I was entranced with the skiing experience in Taos Ski Valley, which is why, twenty years ago, I was inspired to settle here and build a European-style ski retreat like those of my native Bavaria," said Thomas Schulze, owner of the Bavarian Lodge & Restaurant. "Because of our longstanding and positive relationship with Taos Ski Valley, Inc., we approached the organization about purchasing the Bavarian. We are confident it is the right entity to carry forward our vision."

Thomas' wife Jamie added, "We are thrilled to continue managing and leading the Bavarian while transferring ownership to the ski valley – a win-win for both parties. The authenticity, care and consideration Taos Ski Valley's ownership has shown for improving the resort while maintaining its inimitable ambiance makes us confident that the Bavarian will remain a cherished destination in the ski valley for generations to come."

Taos Ski Valley, Inc. and the Schulzes are committed to a smooth and unified transition period, which will not interrupt visitors' stays or the restaurant business. Additionally, the Schulzes will remain at the Bavarian to continue to manage operations for the foreseeable future.

The Bavarian Lodge replicates the cozy luxury of Germany's history-filled alpine inns. It is constructed of authentic building materials and antiques and houses finely crafted furnishings, trompe-l'oeil murals and artwork. Each guest suite is decorated in a distinctive fashion. The attached Bavarian Restaurant serves traditional German fare, by wait staff clad in lederhosen and dirndls. The gourmet menu features items such as sauerbraten, wienerschnitzel and käsespätzle, and a selection of fine wine and imported beers.

"This was a terrific opportunity to invest in an iconic and well-loved ski valley business, and help ensure its continued success into the future," said Gordon Briner, CEO of Taos Ski Valley. "The Bavarian Lodge & Restaurant is a labor of love from the Schulze family, and it is evident in every detail of the property. Their style and hospitality will remain, as Thomas and Jamie will still direct and guide the business. We look forward to helping them maintain the unique, European personality of the Bavarian and continuing to host guests from around the world at the incomparable alpine destination."

Businesses and residents of Taos Ski Valley have welcomed the new partnership, as well.

"Taos Ski Valley's resources will keep the Bavarian a viable and competitive business, which is important since it is a keystone of our small, mountain community," said Bruce Schnitzer, who owns a home adjacent to the property and has lived in the area for more than a decade. "Amidst exciting improvements on the mountain, including the new lift to Kachina Peak, I am heartened to know that Taos Ski Valley includes the Bavarian in its long-term vision for the resort."

The transaction will be completed pending final approval.

About Taos Ski Valley
Located in northern New Mexico, Taos is one of North America's premier ski and snowboard destinations, with more than 305 inches of average annual snowfall and more than 110 trails. Taos has a relaxed, friendly atmosphere, spectacular scenery, and amazing terrain, truly make it a world of its own.

To learn more about Taos Ski Valley or to plan a vacation, please visit www.skitaos.org.

SOURCE Taos Ski Valley