If you’ve spent any time in Estes Park, you already know the town is bursting with mountain scenery, access to Rocky Mountain National Park, and a steady pulse of outdoor adventure. But those in the know also understand that Estes Park is making waves with its food and wellness scene, especially at the Estes Park Resort, home to Ember Restaurant and Bar in Estes Park and the Qi Lounge wellness spa. Whether you’re a foodie, a relaxation-seeker, or just want to enjoy a vacation with a little of everything, these two spots offer a perfect blend of mountain luxury, local flavor, and laid-back fun.
A Destination at Lake Estes
The Estes Park Resort sits on the shore of beautiful Lake Estes, and with its easy access to downtown and the national park, it’s a favorite for travelers who want more than just a room. It’s also where you’ll find Ember and The Qi Lounge. What makes this place special isn’t just the address, it’s how food, wellness, and local hospitality come together. Here, every guest feels like they’re in the know, with a front-row seat to the best of Estes.
Ember Restaurant & Bar
Walking into Ember, you get a hit of warmth, both from the sun streaming in through lakefront windows and the open, modern-mountain design. There’s a hint of the West in the wood and stone, but nothing about Ember feels rustic or stuck in the past. It’s an energetic, stylish spot, where locals gather for a special night and out-of-towners feel instantly welcomed.
The brainchild of Chef Sean Gafner, Ember draws on his farm and ranch upbringing as well as years of culinary training in California and Colorado. Chef Gafner is known for his hands-on approach, attention to detail, and a true respect for the ingredients. His motto? Use the best, treat it well, and always aim for a little delight in every dish.
Fresh, Inventive, and Locally Inspired
Ember’s kitchen is fearless about flavor. The menu is Modern American at heart, but always with a twist, whether it’s a French technique on a Colorado steak, a Southeast Asian accent on the house pork belly, or a Mediterranean touch in the roasted veggie plates.
Start with their house-made burrata, creamy and fresh, paired with blistered tomatoes and crusty local bread. Or try a Colorado spin on tapas: bison meatballs in a tangy tomato sauce, or the wildly popular crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in a spicy honey glaze.
Seafood is always a hit here. Depending on the season, you might find seared scallops with sweet corn puree and chive oil or salmon served with Colorado potatoes and local greens. On chillier nights, the elk and venison entrees offer a hearty, game-forward option you’d expect in the Rockies – yet elevated, never heavy.
Vegetarians are not an afterthought. You’ll see wild mushroom risotto, creative salads with local goat cheese and beets, or roasted cauliflower steaks with vibrant, herbaceous sauces. Even the side dishes, think truffle mac and cheese, crispy smashed potatoes, or glazed root vegetables, are plated with a chef’s touch.
Sweet Endings and Crafted Cocktails
Don’t skip dessert. Ember’s pastry chef puts out crowd-pleasers like the flourless chocolate cake (a favorite for gluten-free guests), seasonal fruit crisps, or a tangy lemon panna cotta that feels like summer in a bowl. House-made ice creams, often featuring flavors like lavender or bourbon-pecan, cap off the meal.
At the bar, you’ll find a cocktail menu that changes with the season. Signature drinks like the smoked old fashioned and lavender lemonade are local legends. The bartenders use fresh herbs, local spirits, and house-made syrups, with a focus on balanced, creative flavors. Prefer wine or beer? The list leans Colorado-heavy, with some well-chosen West Coast and global bottles for good measure. The rotating craft taps spotlight the best of Colorado’s booming beer scene.
More Than a Meal
Dining at Ember is about more than just food. Service is warm and personal, servers genuinely know the menu and are eager to help, not just upsell. The dining room buzzes with energy, but there are plenty of cozy nooks for quiet conversation, and larger tables for groups. Ask for a window seat if you want sunset views over Lake Estes, or head to the patio for fresh air and firepit vibes on summer nights.
Ember is a local favorite for birthdays, anniversaries, and big group celebrations. The team goes the extra mile with special menus, creative dessert presentations, or custom cocktails if you let them know you’re celebrating. They love seeing familiar faces and welcome visitors as new friends.
In winter, the fireplace and mountain views make Ember a perfect spot to warm up after a day on the trails or slopes. In summer, the doors swing open to the lake breeze, and the restaurant hums with people winding down after hikes or just soaking up Estes Park’s golden hour.
Events and Community Connections
Ember doesn’t just serve food; it’s part of the Estes Park scene. From wine tastings and cocktail classes to chef’s table dinners and live music nights, there’s always something happening. The bar is a magnet for locals and visitors, hosting everything from brewery tap takeovers to New Year’s parties and themed dinners for special occasions.
Chef Gafner and his team are committed to supporting local charities, using local purveyors, and participating in community events year-round. This keeps the vibe authentic—never touristy or corporate. You’ll often see staff and regulars swapping tips about the best local hikes or what’s new around town.
The Qi Lounge in Estes Park
Directly upstairs, The Qi Lounge offers a different but equally memorable experience. This is Estes Park’s most acclaimed wellness spa, and it’s dedicated to holistic health, relaxation, and transformation.
From the moment you enter, the Qi Lounge feels peaceful – soft music, herbal aromas, natural materials, and stunning views of Lake Estes and the mountains. Staff welcome you with tea, calm energy, and a genuine interest in your well-being.
Spa Treatments for Every Need
Qi Lounge offers a full menu of massage and bodywork, from classic Swedish and deep tissue to more specialized options like hot stone therapy, prenatal massage, and sports recovery. Their signature Qi Massage is customized to your needs, blending several techniques for a deeply personal and restorative experience.
If you’ve been hiking or skiing, book a sports massage to work out sore muscles. If you’re looking to truly unwind, try a CBD-infused treatment or a sound bath session, where crystal bowls and guided meditation help quiet your mind and restore your balance.
Energy work is a big part of the spa’s philosophy. Reiki, craniosacral therapy, and integrative healing sessions are offered by highly trained therapists. If you’re new to holistic wellness, the staff are happy to explain options and make you feel comfortable.
Wellness for Couples and Groups
The Qi Lounge is perfect for solo travelers or couples. Book side-by-side massages in a private room or plan a spa day as part of a wedding, anniversary, or friends’ getaway. Group bookings can include a mix of treatments, plus time to relax in the lounge or on the outdoor deck with mountain and lake views.
Throughout the year, the spa hosts wellness workshops and events—yoga classes, guided meditations, nutrition seminars, and even private wellness retreats for groups. Locals return regularly for maintenance and stress relief; travelers love the ability to truly relax between adventures.
Amenities and Atmosphere
The spa’s relaxation lounge, herbal tea bar, and serene changing rooms make it easy to linger before or after your treatment. You’re encouraged to take your time—there’s no rush. The Qi Lounge aims to be a sanctuary in every sense, and the experience is tailored to how you want to feel, not just a menu of services.
Many guests book both Ember and Qi Lounge for the same day. Maybe a spa treatment in the morning, then dinner and drinks by the lake in the evening. This “day at the resort” approach is one reason so many people return each year, making it their go-to for anniversaries, girls’ weekends, or special occasions.
The Perfect Setting
The location of Ember and The Qi Lounge can’t be beat. The Estes Park Resort sits on a peninsula with panoramic views of the lake, the peaks, and the surrounding meadows. It’s an unbeatable place to watch the sunrise with a coffee or sunset with a cocktail. In warmer months, the resort offers bike and boat rentals, walking trails, and easy access to fishing and wildlife watching.
Winter brings its own magic, with snow-capped peaks, a peaceful frozen lake, and cozy fireside lounging. Being just a mile from the heart of downtown Estes Park means you’re close to shopping, art galleries, and the famous Riverwalk, but far enough for total peace and quiet at night.
Stay with Voyago
To truly make the most of Ember, Qi Lounge, and everything Estes has to offer, book a vacation rental with Voyago. Our handpicked Lake Estes homes and condos are designed for every type of guest. Want lake views and a private hot tub? Pet-friendly space with a fireplace and open kitchen? A multi-bedroom family retreat or a romantic getaway for two? We’ve got you covered.
Every Voyago rental comes fully furnished, featuring high-end linens, stocked kitchens, spacious living areas, and resort-style amenities. Unwind in a private hot tub after a long day, cook up local finds from the farmers market, or just relax on the deck with a glass of wine from Ember’s list.
Booking direct with Voyago gives you access to local experts, who can recommend not just where to eat and relax, but what to see and do in Estes Park. Our guests love the personalized service and the peace of mind that comes with staying with a reputable, experienced team.
Start Planning Your Lake Estes Escape
Ready to taste, sip, relax, and recharge in the Rockies? Make Ember Restaurant & Bar and The Qi Lounge a priority for your next visit to Estes Park. And don’t forget to book your stay with Voyago for a Lake Estes home base that’s as comfortable and special as your destination. Between the mountain air, the lake views, and the perfect pairing of food and wellness, you’ll be planning your return trip before you even leave.
