Living adjacent to Park City makes me happy: fabulous restaurants, art galleries, charming Main Street, and artful friends.  And yet, I can come home to our peaceful valley where the only ski venue is Soldier Hollow.  Instead,  Midway and the Heber Valley have long been a destination for families to gather and retreat together.  There are many weekends like Labor Day (Swiss Days) when the locals are a mere percentage of the population.

My Grandfather’s family would have summer gatherings at the Homestead Resort.  My mother remembered the stories and kept it a special place in her heart.  My father took her to stay the first night of their honeymoon at the Homestead before driving to Southern California.

And then there is one of my best friends from college and roomies, Ondy (Ondalynn…beautiful name isn’t it!), who has a nearly annual family reunion in nearby mountains at the Heber Valley Girl’s Camp.  Her family is among many who’ve come to love the simplicity and beauty, perfect to foster a great family retreat.

nelson family gathering place by katrina berg, 30×30 oil on framed wood board

The designer is currently working on a new project in the valley…not too far from the famous camp, that will also become a great get-away for families.  There will be panoramic views of the valley and it’s gorgeous mountains, a large pond to swim, fish, and paddle boats…a zip-line to carry one over the pond.  Horeseback riding, sunning in the sand or shade.  Picnics along the beach…family talent shows and performances at the ampitheater, overlooking the pond…so much fun to be had together…memories to be made and shared.  I can’t wait to see how it all turns out!

Does your family have a special place you like to gather? What do you do there?  What amenities/setting would make for a perfect family gathering? xo – katrina