Things to do / Travel Guide
The majestic peaks of the Colorado Rockies have a double role to play for visitors to this region. In the winter, they are the most popular ski destinations in the U.S. In other seasons, sports and recreation take over in the world-class alpine setting. With a whole slew of quaint mountain towns like Aspen, Vail, and Breckenridge to choose from, the opportunity to enjoy a romantic getaway in the Colorado Rockies is fantastic. Hey, if celebrities like Kevin Costner, Oprah Winfrey, Tom Cruise, and Jack Nicholson find favor in the region's hideouts, then there's a good chance you and your partner will like them too!
Romantic Accommodations in the Colorado Rockies
Choosing that perfect place to stay is a tough call in this region, with so much to consider - indeed romantic settings are part and parcel of the Colorado Rockies. In addition, the region covers a pretty big swath of land - from the foothills near Denver, all the way to the far western reaches of the state. Nonetheless, there are some great places that stand out.
For instance, on the western slope, consider the Hotel Lenado in Aspen - it's a romantic classic in every way. This rustically-elegant inn is just steps away from the center of spectacular downtown Aspen, and right next to Whitaker Park. Each room has a four-post bed, Bose sound system, down comforter, and terry robes. Treat yourself and your special someone to the ultimate in romance with a “Smuggler” room, which offers a wood-burning stove, wet bar, whirlpool bath, and private balcony.
Another excellent choice for those looking for a smaller place is the Galena Street Mountain Inn, in Frisco, just past the Continental Divide. Fantastic location, a quaint down-home feel, outstanding food and pampering service; what else can you ask for? How about a really (REALLY) comfortable room and those extra touches that make a stand-out place stand out.
Vail is another of the gorgeous mountain villages in this region. Known for its fantastic skiing and summer tranquility, seekers of romance will be in their element here. And, in Vail, the Sonnenalp Resort is “THE” place to stay. With the look and feel of an alpine chalet, the décor lends itself to the pursuit of romance. Rooms and suites are charming, and the ambiance of the whole place is warm and inviting with service to match.
Sue Carlson and Kendra Hall, proprietors of the Allaire Timbers Inn in Breckenridge, have created a perfect mountain escape for those seeking the quiet, serene beauty that is the Colorado Rocky Mountains. This inn is a true old-fashioned mountain lodge, with a warm, homey feel, roaring fireplaces, spectacular views, and two suites solely dedicated to the pursuit of romance. Oh, did we mention the food? You'll have to trust us on this, but it's worth it to stay here just for the homemade desserts!
Romantic Dining in the Colorado Rockies
Once you decide it's time to leave your “love-nest” lodging for a romantic evening out, there's some more good news for you. Romantic dining is abundant in the Colorado Rockies region. Once such spot is Mirabelle Restaurant, at Beaver Creek Resort near Vail. Belgian Master Chef Daniel Joly makes certain the cuisine is exquisite, and Mother Nature lends a hand in making sure the views are as well. For a romantic dining experience, you really can't do better than Mirabelle. Rated four stars AND four hearts!
In Telluride, in the far western reaches of the region, veteran romantics know the place to go is 221 South Oak. Culinary excellence meets beautiful ambiance to make the experience one to remember. Not that dining at over 10,550 feet is even remotely forgettable! Chef/Owner Eliza Gavin cut her chops (pun intended) in the French Quarter of New Orleans, so expect an awesome meal in an intimate surrounding.
In Aspen, everyone knows that L'Hostaria is something special. Italian cuisine was made for lovers, so you just know it's a romantic experience waiting to happen. Set below ground, the romantically-dimly-lit, intimate dining room offers guests a place for gazing lovingly into each other's eyes while enjoying a nice pasta with marinara. Outstanding, attentive service, occasional live entertainment, and a fabulous wine list is what you can expect.
Romantic Excursions in the Colorado Rockies
Ok, now that you're sufficiently full from one of those great meals, it's time to find the romantic nightlife in this region. Your best bet is to look for the smaller, intimate clubs that offer jazz or other local entertainment. Such establishments can usually be found in nicer hotels throughout the region.
During the summer months, those seeking some old-fashioned romance can rent a boat on Lake Dillon, about an hour and a half's drive west of Denver. This gorgeous lake is ringed by towering, snow-capped mountains and sits between Frisco and Keystone. Talk about views and vistas! Another great place is Maroon Bells near Aspen. This oft-photographed mountain has several picnic areas to choose from. Maybe even try a relaxing day at the Glenwood Springs hot springs pool and spa. Doc Holiday hung out here, and it's also the birthplace of the teddy bear - so named in honor of the time President Teddy Roosevelt stayed in the Hotel Colorado.
If walking hand-in-hand through an authentic Old West mining town strikes you, then Breckenridge is the place. This is where you'll find the killer “B's” - bistros, bars, and boutiques. Very romantic, year-round. And if spending serious money for high quality, hard-to-find merchandise is part of your idea of a romantic vacation, then Aspen, Vail, and Telluride's boutiques and galleries won't let you down either.
Hot-air ballooning in the area is another very romantic activity. Float above it all in a gondola while sipping champagne and noshing on tasty treats. We can keep telling you how gorgeous it is in this region, but you probably have the picture by now. In order to take full advantage of this, during summer months, many ski resorts offer gondola rides to the top of their respective mountains. If you want to take a scenic drive, we suggest going into the mining town of Idaho Springs. Travel up and over Mt. Evans, via Squaw Pass, and bring a camera and a picnic lunch for a romantic afternoon.
There are very few places on Earth with the majestic beauty and down-home friendliness of the Colorado Rockies. It's easy to see why couples out for a romantic vacation choose to come to the region. Now, it's your turn to check it all out. Enjoy!
Romantic Vacation Ideas in Vail, Aspen, Telluride, Steamboat Springs and the Colorado Rockies
Romantic-Vacations-Getaways
Allegria Spa at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort
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