Every Monday, we post The Five Best Things to enjoy in the upcoming week. These things are selected by the Plum TV staff and often times by you.

They range from humble to haute and include exciting events, festivals and performances as well as dining, shopping and playing at various treasured spots, shops and institutions.

This week we're looking forward to...

**********

SPLURGE

1) Get ready for what's sure to be an amazing and strenuous ski season with some strength & conditioning classes at the Aria Spa & Club at Vail Cascade. The spa offers an extensive variety of fitness classes every day of the week, including Yoga, Pilates, Spinning, and Martial Arts. So take some time out to do your body good before hitting the slopes! Check out some great local spas in the videos below:

- Map & Directions for Vail Cascade Resort & Spa

- What's Happening at Allegria Spa (Watch Video)

- Westin Riverfront Resort & Spa (Watch Video)

**********

SAVOR

2) Another must before the season kicks into full gear is to take advantage of the off-season specials! Terra Bistro at Vail Mountain Lodge, one of our local favorites, is offering their healthy, flavorful dinner entrees at a very special 50% off...you read that right, 50% off all dinner entrees! Terra's award-winning fare borrows from Southwest, Mediterranean, and Asian cultures, and introduces its own Alpine influence. We're a big fan of this place year round, but we're huge fans when its 50% off!

- Map & Directions for Terra Bistro

- Local Flavor: Ellen Miller Loves Terra Bistro (Watch Video)

3) Finish off the week with a great breakfast brunch at Ludwig's. Located in the Sonnenalp Resort of Vail, this fine establishment offers contemporary American cuisine with a classic influence, care of Executive Chef Alain Nicolas. We've heard great things about this weekend brunch, which goes from 7-11 a.m. daily (till noon on Sundays) and features a delicious array of egg dishes, fruits, breads, and all the other classic brunch classics!

- Map & Directions for Ludwig's

**********

SEE

4) Even though we're deep into football season, there's always room for Girls Volley Ball! On Tuesday, September 29, at 6 p.m. at Battle Mountain High School, come watch as the girls of Grand Junction Central play the BMHS girls in what will definitely be an exhilarating match. We are remaining neutral in who we cheer for, so let the best team win! More local high school sports below:

- The Lady Huskies Volleyball Stars (Watch Video)

- 2009 BMHS Girls Lacrosse Team (Watch Video)

**********

PLAY

5) Take a ride on Independence Pass! This windy and steep Colorado landmark, located within the White River National Forest, is about to close for the season, so come on out for one of the most scenic drives in the area. If you're wanna do something a bit more interactive with your day, jump out of the car and go for a hike or rock climb along the way, there are tons of paths & trails along the pass for just that! Some more great outdoors activities in the videos below:

- A Walking Tour of Colorado Wildflowers (Watch Video)

- Mountain Tip: Biking Switchbacks (Watch Video)

**********

If you attend any of these events or activities, please report back to Plum with your thoughts on our suggestions and photos of your adventures! We want the good & the bad!

**********

Ideas for next week? e-mail Mike @ editors@plumtv.com