Vail
Vail is a must-see (or ski) in Colorado. Those who live in Denver have it made because Vail is just a 1 hour and 45 minute drive. Plan for adverse conditions and road closures, however, I-70 is known for them.
Lodging near Vail:
The Sonnenalp is the best of the best, and its high ratings reflect that. Its location in vail village is also excellent for dining, après, ski, and getting right on the chairlift.
Lodging in Vail, like everything else, can really put a dent in your wallet. The Holiday Inn Apex Vail is more reasonably priced than most hotels in Vail. The only downside is it’s not located directly in Vail Village or Lionshead, but Vail’s superb bus system allows for a quick, free ride to the mountain.
Dining near Vail:
Terra Bistro, located right outside of Vail Village, serves up fine, unique, cuisine. They also pride themselves in their “green” efforts.
http://www.terrabistrovail.com/
The Red Lion, in the heart of Vail Village, has a casual, mountain-style menu in a fun atmosphere. Visit the Red Lion for après ski, or for some drinks and live entertainment.
Telluride
Telluride is a 7-hour hike from Denver, which is definitely possible, considering how sweet the mountain actually is. But why fly when you can drive? A flight from Denver International Airport to the Telluride Airport is just over an hour.
Lodging near Telluride:
The Bear Creek Lodge of Telluride is located in the mountain village within close distance of shopping, dining, and skiing. http://www.bearcreeklodgetelluride.com/
The Peaks Resort in Telluride is just a short walk from Telluride Mountain, and a gondola ride away from the town of Telluride. http://www.thepeaksresort.com/
Dining near Telluride:
Located in the historic New Sheriden Hotel, the New Sheridan Chop House is a favorite among locals for steakhouses in the area. http://www.newsheridan.com/dining/chop-house-restaurant
Poacher’s Pub is a casual spot, known for their Bloody Marys.
970-728-9647
Breckenridge
Breckenridge has it all, from the mountain to the downtown area—plus its a short 1 hour and 30 minute drive from Denver. Sounds like the perfect weekend getaway to us.
Lodging near Breckenridge:
The Great Divide Lodge is reasonably priced for a weekend trip, and it’s just a short walk to the base of Peak 9 and Breckenridge’s Main Street.
http://www.breckresorts.com/greatdividelodge/info/about.asp
The Lodge & Spa at Breckenridge is where mountain lodge meets luxury.
http://www.thelodgeandspaatbreck.com/
Dining near Breckenridge:
The Breckenridge Brewery, Breck’s only brewpub, is a hot spot for burgers, sandwiches, and beer…obviously.
Rasta Pasta is a Breck favorite, serving Caribbean-style pasta right off Main Street.