COME TO LIFE / Cool Places to Stay 17 COOL COLORADO PLACES TO STAY 1 HIGHLANDER RV CAMPGROUND, LAKE CITY Amid the rugged San Juans, five 14,000-foot peaks and a peaceful waterfall, RV campers find easy trail access, Jeep rentals (and tips for exploring from the owners), excellent trout fishing and the Lake Fork of the Gunnison River. 2 DROWSY WATER RANCH, GRANBY Nestled in a forested valley, you’ll embark on an adventure with horseback riding, amazing “chuck,” kids programs, white-water rafting, hiking, fishing and mountain biking set against a backdrop of unending vistas. 3 VICEROY, SNOWMASS Ski-in/ski-out at this resort at the base of Snowmass Mountain for access to a Ute Indian-inspired spa, year-round saline-pool and terrace, crazy-big soaking tubs, hot chocolate and apple cider and a ski valet to save you from toting your gear to and fro. 4 ARMSTRONG HOTEL, FORT COLLINS Situated amid other historic buildings in Old Town, the Armstrong’s three floors made it the tallest building in town in 1923. Restored in 2004, the new owners recreated original storefronts and the 1940s-era neon sign from historic photographs. 5 FIRESIDE INN CABINS, PAGOSA SPRINGS Beautifully accommodating year-round, this San Juan River-side location really sings in the summer. Cabins with Western flare wel-come you back from adventures, with front porches and barbecue grills just steps from private, on-site catch-and-release fishing. From campsites to luxury resorts, Colorado has plenty of options for every type of getaway. 6 ANTLERS ON THE CREEK BED & BREAKFAST, DURANGO This place takes breakfast seri-ously, as evidenced by its three courses, which helps fuel all your mountain adventures. There’s even a special breakfast for those who like to sleep in. Pop around in the evenings for a margarita happy hour. 7 COLORADO CHAUTAUQUA, BOULDER Delightful cottages await visitors at this National Historic Landmark inches from hiking trails, Flatirons views and the famed Dining Hall. Delicious perk: Have your groceries delivered so you never have to leave your front porch. 8 THE ART, DENVER Your remedy for bland hotel decor, the lobby serves as a high-end gallery, with works by the likes of Andy Warhol and Claes Oldenburg. It’s a refreshing ap-proach, apropos of a hotel in the Golden Triangle district, with the Denver Art Museum and Clyfford Still Museum as neighbors. 9 THE DISTILLERY INN, CARBONDALE Sample Marble Distilling Co.’s crisp vodka and the divine Gingercello liqueur until you feel like retiring to the distillery’s own five-bedroom inn. Cruiser bikes, a rooftop deck and in-room martini bar are a few fringe benefits. 10 GATEWAY CANYONS RESORT & SPA, GATEWAY This escape marries indulgence with adventure: ATVing up red-rock peaks, a desert-racing experience, horseback riding, kayaking, fly-fishing and more with on-site guides. Afterward, unwind in your private hot tub q and then enjoy a five-star meal under a tapestry of stars. 11 SURF CHATEAU, BUENA VISTA You’re unlikely to ride a massive wave at this charming hideaway, but it does sit along the banks of the Arkansas River, perfect for kayakers, SUPers, rafters and more. A bright, beachy vibe and “spa-worthy linens” make for a memorable getaway. 12 BEAUMONT HOTEL, OURAY This hotel was built in 1886 to lure wealthy mining investors to the city with its opulence, which included gold-painted balconies and cathedral glass skylights. Proof its finery holds up today: Oprah has been a guest. 13 GREAT WOLF LODGE, COLORADO SPRINGS For families, you can’t beat this all-in-one vacation spot with 84-degree weather year-round in its water park and activities for everyone from tots to teens. 14 THE BIVVI HOSTEL, BRECKENRIDGE Bunk with like-minded adventurers in European style. Perks include a healthy breakfast, happy hour in the great room, ski or bike equipment storage and access to the Breck Free Ride bus route. 15 DELAWARE HOTEL, LEADVILLE Victorian-era styling has earned the Delaware the nickname “a museum with pillows.” Sitting at 10,152 feet in elevation, it’s also the highest historic hotel in North America, so there’s no doubt you’ll find a true mountain experience. 8 9 16 WINE COUNTRY INN, PALISADE Snuggled amid the tidy rows of a high-country vineyard, this charmer provides dramatic sunsets from rocking chairs on the front porch, an afternoon wine reception and dozens of wineries within cycling distance. 17 LOTTIS CREEK CAMPGROUND, ALMONT Packed in among the lodgepole pines of the Taylor River Canyon, this tranquil spot near Taylor Park Reservoir is super handy for those who want to boat, fish and hike and then explore Crested Butte, Gunnison, Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park and more. WANT MORE? CHECK OUT COLORADO.COM/LODGING & BOOK LODGING AT RECREATION.GOV & CPW.STATE.CO.US. 68 / COLORADO.COM FROM TOP: GATEWAY CANYONS RESORT & SPA; THE ART; THE DISTILLERY INN.
Colorado Official State Vacation Guide 2018: Page 68
