Perched above the historic town of Telluride, Mountain Village sits in the Colorado Rockies surrounded by the highest concentration of 13,000- and 14,000- foot peaks in North America. Beyond its awe-inspiring setting, this little hamlet has a vibe all its own thanks to its purpose-built design, modeled after the pedestrian villages of Europe and filled with charming plazas. It’s the kind of place that invites you to slow down, feel the sunshine on your skin, bond with loved ones, and be more present in the moment.
In other words, it’s a true getaway and one that offers chic hotels, boutiques, dining, and activities for all types of travelers. Soak in a spectacular sunset at dinner after a day of skiing or sip a glass of wine next to the plaza fire pit while letting the kids explore on their own. Here, the young and young at heart feel a sense of independence that comes with the wide-open vistas and serenity of mountain life.
Enjoy views of the snowy peaks from the eco-friendly gondola
Whether you’re looking to traverse wildflower-filled meadows, stargaze under glittering skies, or simply kick back in the comfort of your hotel, you’ll revel in the one-of-a-kind feeling that you get when you visit Mountain Village. Here are our favorite ways to let loose, take a deep breath, and immerse yourself in this mountain gem.
PLAY
With nature at your doorstep, you’ll enjoy the scenery wherever you go, and it’s easy to access stunning settings for outdoor adventures. Telluride Ski Resort is an internationally renowned destination for skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels. With an average of 300 inches of snow annually and virtually no lift lines, Telluride Ski Resort is widely known as the best skiing in Colorado.
Unlike other mountains, beginners aren’t denied the jaw-dropping views of the surrounding peaks, with beginner terrain accessible from the top of Telluride Ski Resort. Powderhounds will rejoice in Telluride’s unique lift served backcountry experience with hike-to terrain and bowls. No matter your ability, the variety of terrain found at Telluride Ski Resort is equaled only by the spectacular 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks.
Telluride Ski Resort offers some of the best skiing in the country.
There are other ways to take in the views, including guided snowmobile tours. Full-day or half-day adventures are available, and with the latest snowmobile technology, you’ll find an adventure that’s as safe as it is thrilling, no matter your experience level.
The Mountain Village Nordic Trail System provides 8 miles of scenic, well-maintained grooves that accommodate skiers, hikers, and snowshoers of all skill levels. And with multiple access points, these pristine trails were designed with your convenience in mind.
For those more inspired by a challenge than convenience, TopATen at Telluride Ski Resort delivers ten kilometers of lung-busting trails that reward the most adventurous classic and skate skiers. Day passes to these Nordic trails atop Lift 10 can be purchased for $25, or you can earn a free run by skiing up the Galloping Goose ski run.
Trailblazers will meet their match on the Mountain Village Nordic Trail System
In Telluride Mountain Village, wintertime doesn’t mean you have to put away your rod and reel. From late February to early April, the San Miguel River offers a one-of-a-kind winter fly fishing experience for diehard anglers. Private water is even available for multi-day outings through a couple of experienced local outfitters.
Want something a bit less active while still taking in the winter paradise vibe? Meander through Mountain Village’s narrow passages that open to plazas, where you’re bound to discover something that fits just right.
Heritage Plaza, just steps away from the 13-minute, eco-friendly, free gondola that connects Mountain Village to Telluride, is home to restaurants, shopping, kid-friendly activities, and nightlife. Reflection Plaza’s winter ice rink is a perennial hit with kids. Or you can grab a cocktail, sit next to the outdoor fire, and take in the sights and sounds of the Village.
Retail therapy is another fabulous way to explore town. Build a ski specifically for you at Wagner Custom Skis, get fitted in a pair of handmade Lucchese cowboy boots (make an appointment to design your own), or grab some new outdoor outfits at the new Free People Movement outpost. For the best kind of souvenir—locally made art—head to Rinkevich Gallery.
DINE
Enjoying drinks in one of The Cabins, a public art installation
From fine dining to more casual eats, Mountain Village offers an outsize range of restaurants and cuisines. For a unique experience, check out The Cabins Public Art Installation, which consists of gondolas repurposed as dining cabins, placed throughout the plazas, and transformed by local and regional artists into public art pieces.
If you’re looking for something more traditional, head to La Piazza del Villaggio where old family recipes meet modern techniques for upscale Italian cuisine and a lengthy wine list that keeps the crowds coming back again and again. Another option is Altezza at The Peaks, located at The Peaks Resort & Spa and serving traditional fare made using regional ingredients, plus incredible views.
Nestled high in the mountains, Allred’s pairs craft cocktails and fine wines with a prix fixe menu of modern American cuisine that changes seasonally and more postcard-worthy scenery outside its oversized windows. And inside the Madeline Hotel, Black Iron Kitchen & Bar brings the fire tableside for a warm, cozy environment where you can savor hearty meals including a Wagyu burger and a Colorado lamb shank with mascarpone polenta.
STAY
Experience modern mountain style at the Madeline Hotel’s Timber Room bar
Make the outdoors your backyard at Madeline Hotel & Residences, an ideally situated property as a basecamp for adventure. Snowshoe trails start just steps away, while the Madeline offers guided experiences, horseback riding, mountain tea ceremonies, and more.
At Lumiére with Inspirato, 18 boutique residences are available with guided tours for every type of outdoor pursuit. The Peaks Resort & Spa is the largest hotel in Mountain Village and features a range of accommodation types. Fairmont Heritage Place, Franz Klammer Lodge has two- and three-bedroom residences available, while Inn at Lost Creek has 32 suites in Mountain Village Center.
The Peaks Resort & Spa is nestled in the mountainous landscape.
Mountain Lodge Telluride exudes rustic charm, and rooms, suites, and private log cabins all have personal balconies and Western flair. Bear Creek Lodge offers hotel rooms plus two-, three-, and four-bedroom condos that allow large parties to spread out and relax with plenty of space.
Wherever you rest your head, you’ll experience the vibrant feeling of Mountain Village, connect with friends and family, and bring home the sweetest memories of your time here.
