Many travelers think of Colorado in winter as a playground reserved for skiers and snowboarders. If that’s your assumption and skiing isn’t your thing, you may be overlooking a vacation that is equal parts relaxing and exhilarating. Colorado offers lush outdoor experiences, breathtaking scenery, charming shops and cafés, and vibrant nightlife that go far beyond the ski slopes.
With nearly 300 sunny days a year, low humidity, and moderate temperatures, Colorado promises indoor and outdoor activities for every kind of traveler. Throughout the year, its mountain towns host food, art, beer and wine, and even livestock festivals, celebrations designed for those who savor culture, flavor, and atmosphere.
In 2011, my husband and I set out on a romantic mountain getaway to Telluride, Colorado. Because I’m not a skier, I’d always avoided spending much time in the mountains, worried there wouldn’t be enough to do. Telluride quickly proved me wrong.
This former silver mining town sits about 330 miles southwest of Denver. Its world-class ski resort, dramatic mountain views, and eclectic shops have made it a favorite destination for artists, celebrities, and second-home owners. As you enter town, your breath is instantly taken away by the sight of Telluride tucked into a glacial canyon at the base of the majestic San Juan Mountains.
We planned our visit during the town’s annual film festival, a five-day celebration featuring new fall releases and restored classic films. During the day, we wandered along Main Street, browsing local shops and dining at several wonderful restaurants. The town’s buildings retain a whimsical Old West charm, perfect for leisurely sightseeing. Walking through historic Colorado mining towns offers glimpses into life long ago. I could almost picture miners and cowboys ending their day at the local saloon, sharing cold beers, laughter, and stories before heading home.
One afternoon, we joined a four-wheel Jeep tour to learn more about the town’s history and culture. As we drove through the mountains, the cool air brushing against my cheeks filled me with an exhilarating sense of freedom and adventure. Some nearby towns seemed frozen in time, some lovingly preserved, others left in quiet ruin. Even the crumbling structures carried a haunting beauty, echoing the lives once lived there.
The following day, we set out on a hike locals had recommended, one that led to a spectacular waterfall. The trail was gentle, and despite the cool temperature, the walk was comfortable and invigorating. After a couple of miles, we reached the waterfall, and it was breathtaking. The mist refreshed my face as the rushing water tumbled over the rocks below, blowing my hair as if I were standing before a powerful fan. In that moment, I felt deeply connected to the place, free, energized, and alive. Though my body tired after a short rest, my heart raced with excitement. On the way back down, we walked in silence, savoring the sense of release from the pressures of everyday life.
At the base, we stopped for a beer at a local Irish pub, where live music and a friendly crowd encouraged easy conversation with locals. To return to our condo, we often rode the town’s gondola instead of hiking. Each ride offered spectacular views, wildlife roaming below, panoramic mountain scenes, wildflowers, and aspen trees glowing in their seasonal colors. Every trip felt like a new experience.
Each evening after dinner, we soaked in the hot tub with a glass of wine, then retreated indoors to watch a movie or simply relax together. The trip was the perfect blend of adventure and tranquility. The quality time my husband and I shared, along with the unforgettable experiences we enjoyed in Telluride, made this an exceptional romantic winter escape.
We’re already planning future mountain getaways. Breckenridge is next, so stay tuned.
