Meet your host

Hello, I'm René! My family and I moved to the Durango/Bayfield area from the shores of Santa Barbara in 2004; here, we found a home with the striking beauty of the Rocky Mountains.

I have worked as a B2B consultant in the 4Corners area for nearly a decade; then, in 2015, I started the business Shanty Chic, managing quintessential mountain cabins in Vallecito Lake. Through my time in Colorado, I’ve become intimately familiar with the southwest and surrounding areas.

I am a guest-driven host, and enjoy taking time to create connections through personally meeting each of guest. I listen both for needs, barriers, goals and desires, to best accommodate you and provide meaningful suggestions for your trip. My priority is to provide a safe and comfortable home for your experience in Vallecito Lake and beyond. I have cared for hundreds of guests and am excited to share all the insights that a trained guide, local business owner, and Colorado Mom can offer.

Photograph in Chaco Canyon, 2022 Ask me about nearby hikes!