The former Victorian mining town has evolved into one of the most sought-after ski towns in the Colorado Rocky Mountains. Check out journalist and avid skier Stacey Lastoe’s official HAP Telluride guide below.
TO STAY:
Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
Located on Mountain Village Boulevard, this five-star hotel offers ski-in, ski-out access overseen by helpful ski valets. The 150-room property exudes modern elegance across its common areas, on-site restaurant, and aprés ski haven Timber Room. A heated rooftop pool bookended by two hot tubs, CBD-enhanced spa services, and a special altitude acclimation minibar add to the posh resort’s appeal.
Charming and intimate, Dunton Town House is situated in the heart of Telluride and is just about as cozy as an inn with just five rooms can be. A buffet breakfast, included in the stay, features homemade granola, yogurt, freshly-baked pastries, and other continental delights, all served in a sweet nook. Take the free gondola ride to access the slopes and all of the village offerings, or take advantage of the inn’s inviting library with a book and cup of coffee.
TO EAT:
221 South Oak
Eliza Gavin of Top Chef Season 10 fame helms the kitchen at this New American spot. Winter-warming dishes include a homemade sausage platter and a local elk T-bone. An ambitious vegetarian menu doesn’t short-shrift the non-carnivorous eaters in the group and may even persuade steak lovers to change course — at least for a night.
Brown Dog Pizza
When the inevitable pizza craving hits, head to Brown Dog Pizza and order The Smoke Dog (fresh basil, fresh mozzarella, pepperoni, banana peppers, a side of marinara), Caesar salad, and a bottle of Montepulciano.
TO DRINK:
There Bar
There Bar’s extensive cocktail list — shaken, black list, and bougie classics round out the distinct categories — belies its otherwise quaint appeal. A perfect Manhattan stars Whistle Pig Rye and carpano antica and is an excellent precursor to spicy duck buns or crispy cauliflower.
The Last Dollar Saloon
The family-friendly nature of ski towns makes a watering hole like Last Dollar Saloon, which caters to the 21+ crowd (no children, babies in strollers, or teens), a rather welcome — and unique — respite. Sidle up at the bar after the last run of the day, and choose a local beer on tap or opt for something stronger off of the “Fancy Cocktails” menu; the Telluride Mule, made with local vodka or whiskey, goes down just as easy as the rooftop’s mountain views.
TO VISIT:
Mosey around Colorado Avenue or Main Street
Colorado Avenue or Main Street (the names are often used interchangeably) is the place to stop for a cup of coffee and pastry at The Butcher & The Baker, pick up a new book at Between the Covers, and snag a designer label at The Pepporium, a well-curated vintage and consignment shop. Food-focused strollers needing a break from shopping for new sweaters at Telluride Trappings & Toggery, can enjoy the quintessential ski fare, fondue, at Alpinist & the Goat, or classic Italian bites at Rustico Ristorante.
Telluride Historical Museum
The building itself — a restored 1896 miners’ hospital — is a sight to behold. Fortunately, the museum’s indoor offerings add to the space’s appeal. For a better understanding of the region’s ski history, this season’s annual exhibit “The Long Run” showcases 50 years of the Telluride ski area, but permanent exhibits, including one titled “From Mining Camp to Community,” paint a rich history of the former mining town’s origins and evolution.
Telluride Ski Resort
Shred the slopes at the town’s iconic ski wonderland, Telluride Ski Resort. Within the domain, there are a plethora of ski runs for all different levels.
Sheridan Opera House
Housed in another of Telluride’s historic buildings, this venue boasts an impressive slate of events year-round. From Grammy-nominated singer Jewel to a Tom Petty cover band to popular musicals like “Chicago” and “The Sound of Music,” visitors to Telluride can expect a memorable evening at the opera house.
Bridal Veil Falls
You might not initially think of waterfalls and winter, and although Bridal Veil Falls 365-feet free-falling waterfall (the longest in Colorado) freezes at this time of year, it’s an incredible sight. Up-close access is impossible as the road closes in winter, but driving to the end of the box canyon overlooking Telluride affords some spectacular views and natural wonderment.
