Stay: Dunton Hot Springs Resort
A Western Ghost Town, a stone’s throw from Mesa Verde National Park.
Southwest Colorado
Just 73 miles north of Mesa Verde National Park (and 73 south of Telluride Ski Resort), you’ll find Dunton, a classic, reconstructed 19th century western mining-turned-ghost town, the center of this amazing resort. Hand-constructed log cabins give a rustic ambiance to this alpine valley, which has an old-timey saloon offering excellent food served at a long communal table, plus a chapel, dance hall, and “bath house.” The property operates on an all-inclusive basis, with meals and even the full service spa as part of the experience. Guests are treated to the natural mineral hot springs, plus trails, horseback riding, fly fishing, biking, rafting, archeological tours, and winter snowshoeing & skiing. In the lodge, guests are delight in afternoon hot chocolate and board games. Guests stay in one of 14 log cabins, each with unique designs and furnishings. Reviewers generally rave about this “diamond in the rough,” noting friendly staff (particularly the bartender), room comfort and activities, though a few reviews note slow breakfast service, and special requests not being honored. 2 Michelin Keys, and a member of Relais & Chateaux.
14 rooms, from 1,165 USD per night (two night minimum)
www.duntondestinations.com/hot-springs/
Photo source: hotel website, Rustic Vacations, ALLWAYS, CNN, Inspirato
Every publication will feature one unique restaurant, hotel, activity, or other travel discovery that stood out in our research. Some of these are established institutions that deserve repeat merit, while others are hidden gems that are often off the radar of most.
