Get away to Girdwood: nearby mountain town offers a complete Alaska experience, plus luxury.

• Author: Ellis-Knapp, Jody
• Position: EXECUTIVE GETAWAY - Hidden Creek Bed and Breakfast - Company overview

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Think of Girdwood and it's likely you will think of skiing, snowboarding and maybe some summer hiking. Located just 45 minutes south of Anchorage, this quirky little ski town has always had a distinct personality and a rather "crunchy" reputation. So it may surprise you to find out that Girdwood isn't just for skiers, but has developed into a stylish resort area, catering to upscale clientele, yet managing to retain the Alaska spirit of individuality that we all treasure. Girdwood's Hidden Creek Bed and Breakfast is just one of the newer Girdwood getaways, combining rustic outdoor adventure with pure luxury.

Owned by Ron and Michelle Tenney, Hidden Creek has been in operation since February 2007. The couple began spending time in Alaska back in 2002 and fell in love with the state, making a permanent move from Chicago in 2006. They had always had a dream of opening a bed and breakfast in a beautiful wilderness setting.

"We found a perfect property for a bed and breakfast in Girdwood," says Michelle Tenney. "We decided that either our dream of having a B&B could remain a dream or we could go for it. We bought the property and found a fabulous builder." The bed and breakfast is located at the top of Vail Drive, surrounded by spruce and hemlock trees, next to a small hidden creek.

Amenities include three rooms--each having Scandia Down comforters, televisions and DVD players, wireless Internet and private baths. The Creekside Suite also offers a whirlpool tub. Rooms are decorated in a clean, modern style with warm accent colors throughout. Guests are greeted with a treat of cookies or brownies in their room.

Each morning, breakfast begins with an assortment of fresh fruit, muffins, breads or biscuits, juice, coffee and tea. A menu offers several options of hot meals, including egg dishes and pancakes or French toast. Michelle Tenney attended culinary school in Chicago in 2006 and puts her skills to work for her guests. "I try to offer a special, gourmet dining experience. The menu highlights fresh foods from Alaska as much as possible," she said.

There is a common area with 24-hour...