The Corduroy Inn and Lodge in Snowshoe expands opportunities for a comfortable stay on the mountain.
A family-owned resort hotel at Snowshoe, The Corduroy Inn and Lodge perfectly blends vintage charm with modern luxury. It’s recently undergone a massive renovation under the watchful eye of new owners David and Kristin Billings, who purchased property in 2014.
The property was once known as the Vantage Inn. The Billingses expanded its original footprint to include additional accommodations in a new section now called the Corduroy Lodge. Together, the Corduroy Inn and Lodge offer 42 guest units of studio hotel rooms, loft units, and one- and two-bedroom suites in an idyllic setting four seasons of the year.
The COVID-19 pandemic did prove to be a tough time for building renovations, with progress slowing almost to a halt at times. But the new inn and lodge finally opened its doors in November 2020, just in time for the winter ski season. “It was a long, challenging period of time, and opening the property up right at ski season really was not easy, but in reflection it came together, so we are happy,” says Richard Mandy, general manager of lodging.
The Inn has many repeat customers already, Mandy says, partially because of the fond memories they have of the Vantage Inn, while the Lodge is attracting old and new guests alike. “It really has transformed over the years,” says Mandy. “Many people have come here and remember back when it was a different place in a different building, and I think they’ve seen the constant change taking place, and the investment in the property and where it’s going. It’s all very positive.”
Three eateries have opened on the property since renovations were completed. Guests can enjoy wood-fired pizza and gelato at The Pizza Slice, American fare and a pint at Tuque’s Bar and Grill, or farm-to-table dining at the Appalachian Kitchen—which long-time visitors will remember was The Red Fox, a slope-side favorite, until it closed in 2006. Guests looking for other dining options can check in with the Corduroy Inn and Lodge concierge, who can recommend another of 20 eateries on the mountain that meets their preferences.
The newly configured operation includes another major addition—in fact, the original idea for the Lodge came out of David Billings’ recognition that there was room for another wedding venue on the mountain. “In the summertime, Snowshoe, as a property and as a resort, was doing very well, with a lot of wedding business up here,” Mandy says. “He felt there was definitely a niche for another new quality venue.”
The top floor banquet hall of the Lodge is designed exclusively for couples choosing the dramatic backdrop of Snowshoe Mountain for their big days. And on Memorial Day weekend this year, the Billingses welcomed their first wedding.
Feedback about the operation has been positive. “When guests are here they feel they’re treated royally, and they absolutely look forward to returning here,” Mandy says. “Guests are wanting to come back, and it’s a breath of fresh air. I think everyone’s embracing it.” 681.202.7111, corduroyinn.com
READ MORE ARTICLES FROM WV LIVING’S FALL 2021 ISSUE
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