Telluride: The Coolest Mountain Town
Hello there!
Welcome to Telluride, the coolest mountain town you'll ever visit! If you're here for the Telluride Film Festival aka “The Show”, get ready for an awesome time! A few moons ago, we accidentally came across the film festival when we simply wanted to visit Telluride for the day while staying in Ouray. True story: my dogs got to slobber all over Hugh Jackman. Free slobbers aside, it’s much better to show up with a plan. I've got a bunch of tips and recommendations to make your trip a blast.
Where to stay?
The Madeline Hotel - Telluride, Colorado
The Madeline Hotel is a luxurious retreat nestled in the heart of Telluride, Colorado. With breathtaking views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains, the hotel offers a perfect blend of comfort and sophistication. Its elegant rooms and suites are adorned with modern amenities and plush furnishings, ensuring a relaxing stay. Guests can indulge in delectable cuisine at the on-site restaurant, pamper themselves at the spa, and enjoy easy access to the nearby slopes and hiking trails, making the Madeline Hotel an ideal choice for both winter and summer getaways.
Perks
Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability
Early Check-In / Late Check-Out, subject to availability
Daily Breakfast for 2
Food & Beverage or Spa Credit (value varies by property)
Complimentary Wi-Fi
photo courtesy of The Madeline Hotel
Lumière with Inspirato
Lumière with Inspirato is a premier boutique hotel situated in the picturesque mountain town of Telluride, Colorado. Known for its exceptional service and personalized attention, this luxurious property offers a truly unforgettable experience. The spacious and beautifully appointed accommodations feature top-notch amenities and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Guests can take advantage of the hotel's ski-in/ski-out access, gourmet dining options, and exclusive access to club facilities, making Lumière with Inspirato a top choice for discerning travelers seeking a memorable mountain retreat.
Perks
Tablet Plus benefits vary from property to property, but may include:
• Upgrade to the next room category, based upon availability at check-in
• Early check-in/Late check-out
• A welcome amenity or beverage
• Daily breakfast for 2
• A food and beverage or spa credit
• Complimentary bike rental
Now, let's talk about food!
You're in for a treat because Telluride's culinary scene is top-notch. For a bit of elegance, head to Cosmopolitan located in Hotel Columbia. They’ve got some mouthwatering dishes from around the world. But if you're craving sandwiches and pastries, you can't miss The Butcher & The Baker at 201 E. Colorado Street.
Feeling fancy? 221 South Oak is the place for you. They've got delicious, locally-sourced dishes that'll blow your mind. The address in the name! And if you're into Thai food, Siam is the spot! I could go on and on, but let's move on to drinks!
Cheers!
Telluride has some great spots for drinks. You've got to try the locally brewed craft beers at Telluride Brewing Company. Trust me; their Face Down Brown Ale is a winner. And for those who love spirits, Telluride Distilling Company is where it's at! Their handcrafted drinks are the real deal.
But if you're in the mood for wine, you can take a little trip up to Mountain Village and visit Communion Wine Bar. Communion has wine, champagne, high-end spirits, charcuterie, cheese, and more! Patrons will enjoy unique wines, high-end sipping spirits, and champagne, paired with charcuterie and conserves in the recently opened and well-appointed Communion Wine Bar.
Now, onto the fun stuff!
Telluride is a playground for adventure seekers. If you love hiking, there are some epic trails like Bear Creek and Bridal Veil Falls. And if biking is more your style, Telluride Bike Park and Mountain Village Bike Park are calling your name!
For the thrill-seekers, you've got to try the Via Ferrata. It's like rock climbing with a twist! And if fishing is your thing, the San Miguel River is a dream for fly fishing. Or even more fun, rafting on the San Miguel. Split the fun and do a half day of rafting and a Jeep Tour.
Bonus: Not too far away is the famous Million Dollar Highway. Drive along Colorado’s Million Dollar Highway and discover its history as you embark on a self-driving audio tour. Download this app and follow the driving route; the GPS indicates where you are and plays the audio for that particular location. Drive past abandoned mining towns, natural landmarks, and old railroads, learning their histories as you go.
Shopping spree time!
You'll love exploring the boutiques and art galleries in Telluride. Main Street is the place to be with its unique shops and boutiques and especially during the film festival when you might be shopping next to your favorite actor or an award-winning director. Oh, and don't miss the Telluride Gallery of Fine Art; they've got some stunning pieces to admire. As a matter of fact, there is so much art to be enjoyed in Telluride, I should write another guide. Here’s a few more: Slate Gray Gallery, Rinkevich Gallery, Mixx Atelier, & The Gordon Collection.
Nightlife!
The sun goes down and the fun continues! Catch a live performance or concert at the Sheridan Opera House. And for a chill night out, head to The Liberty Bar & Lounge (121 S Fir Street) for some relaxing cocktails. Want something a bit more lively? The Last Dollar Saloon, also known as The Buck, is a classic Telluride bar where you can play pool and meet new friends.
Don't forget to dance the night away at the Moon at O'Bannon's; it's the place to be for some serious nightlife action!
Quick tips
Telluride is a pedestrian-friendly town, but you can also hop on the free gondola to Mountain Village. And remember, the altitude here is no joke, so drink water, take it easy, and watch out for altitude sickness.
Last but not least, get your Film Festival passes early to make sure you don't miss any of the action.
Now you're all set for an epic time in Telluride during the Film Festival. Soak in the stunning scenery, savor the tasty food, and embrace the mountain town vibes.
I’d love to help you with your Colorado Adventure, whether you’re traveling to Telluride for the film festival or you're embarking on a thrilling outdoor adventure elsewhere in the Rockies! As a seasoned explorer of Colorado's wonders, I can share insider tips on the best hiking trails, hidden gems for camping, and even some lesser-known spots for stargazing. If you're a foodie, I'll guide you to local culinary hotspots where you can savor the flavors of the region. And of course, I'll help you find the perfect accommodations, whether it's a cozy cabin, a trendy boutique hotel, or a luxurious resort, to ensure your stay is as memorable as the breathtaking scenery that awaits you. Let's make your Colorado journey an unforgettable one! Contact me here to get started with this adventure!