Arrival/Check-in: After a roughly 20-minute drive from Denver International Airport to suburban Englewood, my limousine pulled up beneath the portico of the low-slung Inverness. Friendly bellmen carried my luggage into an airy lobby that opens onto views of the lake and golf course. Check-in was efficient and welcoming, and my bellman escorted me quickly to my room. (28/30)
Guest Quarters: The three guestroom floors are divided by bright mini-lobbies with ample windows and natural light. The guestrooms received a $9 million renovation last year and now feel fresh and spacious, with a calm palette of earth tones. The oversized desk offered both wired and wireless Internet access, paired with a comfortable desk chair. The bathroom was well appointed and the bed was very comfortable. My room overlooked the pond, fountain and golf course; other rooms offer mountain views of the Rockies. (28/30)
Services/Amenities: The hotel’s layout, arranged like parallel spokes off a central hub, positions extensive meeting facilities in the front wings — modern, high-tech conference rooms on one side and function space with private dining rooms on the other — while dining and recreation occupy the rear wings.
The main restaurant, Baca, looks out into the rear lobby through windows that complement a subtle Spanish-inspired décor and a menu of carefully prepared dishes. Opposite Baca is the Fireside Lounge, featuring a contemporary bar and a variety of intimate seating areas. The Garden Terrace serves an impressive Sunday buffet, including made-to-order Bananas Foster. The on-site spa is a standout, offering a serene relaxation room that opens onto a small walled garden with a hot tub and fireplace. I experienced the “Devote and Detox” treatment, which combined a lemon-coffee blossom scrub, tangerine-fig butter moisturizing and a multi-head shower. The property also features an 18-hole championship golf course with a pro shop and the Golf Grille. (39/40)
The Experience: Inverness is ideal for the solo business traveler, yet it also suits a spa or golf weekend or corporate meeting. The atmosphere throughout the property is relaxed and refined, and with a range of on-site amenities and activities, I found little reason to travel into downtown Denver during my stay.
Total Score: (95/100)
The Inverness Hotel and Conference Center
200 Inverness Dr. W.
Englewood, Colo.
tel 303 799 5800
http://www.invernesshotel.com