15 Top Romantic Getaways in Colorado

Colorado is one of our choice destinations for a romantic getaway in the United States. It is beautiful all year round and the mountains provide you with plenty of opportunity for outdoor adventures like skiing, snowmobiling, horseback riding, white water rafting and so much more. The state has tons of lively resorts but also secluded cabins and dude ranches. If you are looking for romance and adventure, Colorado is a great choice. Now within Colorado, there are plenty of choices so here is a list of the recommended destinations for a romantic place to stay in Colorado.

Steamboat Springs

About three and a half hours from Denver you’ll find a beautiful western style town in the Rocky Mountains. Steamboat Springs has a cute downtown area, fun restaurants and breweries, and world-class skiing or snowboarding.

This is the perfect destination for couples because there are so many adventurous activities to enjoy plus equal ways to relax and spend quality time together. If you’re visiting in winter be sure to hit the slopes for at least a day and if it’s summer then you can hike on the same mountain. If skiing isn’t your style then try snowshoeing, snowmobiling, or even tubing.

After a day full of excitement there is no shortage of ways to relax. Get a couples massage at The Steamboat Grand Spa or drive out to Strawberry Parks Hot Springs. The hot springs are tiered pools in the mountain and are absolutely gorgeous in the winter.

For a romantic dinner that won’t break the bank try Mazzola’s, especially if you love Italian food. Truffle Pig is a nice place for happy hour and Los Locos hits the spot if you want Mexican food. Mountain Tap Brewery is the perfect place for a laid back bite to eat. Don’t miss the cinnamon rolls for breakfast at Winona’s downtown.

– Contributed by Anna Cook – StuckOnTheGo.com

Aspen

If you are planning for a romantic getaway in Colorado, then consider a vacation in Aspen, one of the most romantic places in the US. It’s an amazing place for a honeymoon, anniversary vacation, valentine’s day vacation, and many more. Nestled in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is renowned globally for skiing in winter. It also features various outdoor activities including hiking, bicycling, kayaking year-round. From jaw-dropping scenic views, countless recreational activities to high-end restaurants and romantic hotels, Aspen has everything for people looking for a couple’s vacation.

Start your romantic holidays with a hot air balloon ride just after the sunrise. What can be more romantic than floating across the sky over the Rocky Mountains with your partner? You can enjoy the view of the mountains from a different perspective. A champagne brunch is also included which makes it more romantic. Learn some cooking skills in the Aspen Cooking School that offers private and hands-on cooking classes.

Adventure loving couples must go for skiing and ice skating in Aspen. Whether you love skiing or not, the gondola ride to the top of Aspen Mountain provides the ultimate scenic view and intimate experience.

When you are done with all outdoor activities, pamper yourselves with a private couples massage at Remede Spa. Beforehand, you will be offered chocolate and champagne.

I will highly recommend staying in The Gant, a luxurious romantic resort located near the base of Aspen Mountain. The resort features outdoor pools, hot tubs, a wooden burning fireplace, and a private balcony with top-notch service.

– Contributed by Trijit Mallick – BudgetTravelBuff.com

Estes Park

Colorado is full of cities and small towns that have a romantic charm and Estes Park is one of them.

Located around 90 minutes northwest of Denver, Estes Park is the gateway for Rocky Mountain National Park. It’s the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of a big city and is an outdoor oasis for couples.

Estes Park is beautiful all year round, but it’s the perfect winter getaway. It’s known for its snowshoeing and sledding and these are both fun activities for couples.

Another romantic thing to do is pack a picnic lunch and take it to Rocky Mountain National Park. Then, do a scenic horseback ride around the park.

Be sure to wake up early one morning and head to Sprague Lake to enjoy some solitude and the sunrise. After that, hike your way to Bridal Veil Falls for stunning views 20-foot hidden waterfall.

Open Air Adventure Park is also a must in Estes Park. Have a friendly competition with your significant other and see who’s better at tightrope walking and more.

When you get tired of adventure activities and want to do something more relaxing, enjoy a couples massage at Riverpoint Spa. Then, enjoy a romantic dinner at Twin Owls Steakhouse. You’ll have breathtaking views of the Rockies from this rustic lodge. Finally, enjoy sweets, candies, or ice cream at Munchin.

A romantic place to stay at is the Stanley Hotel. The rooms have a modern yet boutique feel. Stephen King even stayed here. They have suites, condos, and basic hotel rooms.

– Contributed by Disha Smith – DishaDiscovers.com

Vail

Vail is a charming walkable town that boasts plenty of outdoor activities, endless shops, and dining options. 

The Sebastian Hotel is one of the most romantic spots to stay in town. This luxury boutique resort offers a spa, a year-round outdoor pool with four hot tubs, and two delicious restaurants. 

Vail is known for its skiing from November to April, and hiking from May until November, making it a prime spot for couples who love the outdoors. 

Booth Falls Road is a popular and romantic trail to hike. It’s just over 4 miles long and ends at a stunning waterfall. 

For an easier destination to reach, check out The Betty Ford Alpine Gardens. It’s free to visit and open to the public year-round. Plus, it has the distinction of being the world’s highest botanical garden. The exquisite flowers, foliage, waterfalls, and trees will truly delight you. 

Adventurous couples visiting during the summer should check out Epic Discovery. They offer multiple adventure courses, ziplines, a mountain coaster, a climbing wall, even a bungee trampoline.  

No matter what you choose to do, with Vail as your romantic backdrop, you will fall in love all over again.

– Contributed by Ally Gibson – Ally Travels

Rocky Mountain National Park

Rocky Mountain National Park is one the most gorgeous national parks in the world. It has three main entrances, two from the towns Estes Park and one from Grand Lake. There are smaller entrances for access to hikes. In summer Estes Park and Grand Lake are connected by Trail Ridge road. In winter the road is closed so it take take a few hours to get to both sides. 

I would recommend staying in Estes park because it has a gorgeous downtown with restaurants for every flavor and occasion. The town has hikes and easy access to some of the most beautiful sites of Rocky Mountain National Park. It has a quaint mountain town vibe with a beautiful riverfront downtown. The downtown has lovely shops, dining, and riverside seating for romantic meals. 

While in winter the Trail Ridge Road is closed for vehicles, sections are open for hikers. The best place to visit is the Bear Lake road which has Sprague Lake, Bear Lake, Moraine basin, streams, beaver dams, and umpteen romantic hikes. 

The more popular places to stay in Estes Park are the Stanley hotel and the Estes Park Resort. But there are ample choices for every budget. 

Further south of the Estes Park entrance is the Wild Basin area which also hosts many waterfall hikes. If you have half a day be sure to hike up to the Ouzel falls. It’s absolutely gorgeous. 

– Contributed by Jyoti Baid from StoryAtEveryCorner.com

Denver

Whether you’re a Denver local looking to spice things up with a staycation or an out-of-state visitor, there are plenty of ways to make your time in the Mile High City unforgettable.

Base yourselves at The Crawford Hotel, one of the most romantic and iconic hotels in Denver. Attached to the historic Union Station, you’ll be within walking distance to plenty of upscale dining options, must-see attractions, and some of the best things to do in Denver.

Begin your day with a slow brunch at Sassafrass, which is known for scratch-made food in a cozy Victorian house. Don’t forget to order a signature Bloody Mary or a flight of mimosas.

Spend the afternoon exploring the RiNo art district, wandering one of the city’s many farmers markets, and strolling hand in hand through Denver’s Botanic Gardens. If you want a bit of adventure, nearby Red Rocks offers some excellent hiking trails as well as a world-class music venue that hosts events ranging from live performances to outdoor yoga, to movie showings. Just get back to town in time to stroll around Larimer Square at dusk, as this is known as the “most charming square in Denver”.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you’ll have no shortage of incredible dining options to choose from. If you’re looking for a place that feels exclusive and oozes romance, Tavernetta (upscale Italian) and Mizuna (New American) both make excellent choices. End your evening in an intimate speakeasy, like Williams & Graham or the historic Cruise Room. Soak up the opulent ambiance with a crafted cocktail in hand and your partner by your side.

– Submitted by Katie Diederichs from TwoWanderingSoles.com

Breckenridge

A top spot for a romantic getaway in Colorado is definitely Breckenridge, one of the most famous ski resorts in Colorado and the nation.  It is a short distance from Denver and the perfect day trip or weekend getaway from the Colorado capital, which is only 80 miles away. During the winters, this resort city transforms into a skiing wonderland.  You will find cozy cabins buried in the snow, ski lodges with fireplaces on, and delicious food in a romantic and wintry setting.

Besides being nestled in the jaw-dropping Rocky Mountains, Breckenridge also has plenty of romantic indoor activities, like spas and saunas.  Many luxury hotels offer spa packages and the opportunity to unwind with your partner after a day on the slopes and get a massage or facial. One of the most romantic places to dine in is the Hearthstone Restaurant, where you can dine in a historic house with views overlooking the mountains.

Breckenridge is an unbeatable destination in Colorado for some romance and alone time with your significant other. 

– Contributed by Megan and Aram from MeganStarr.com

Boulder

Located 30 minutes northwest of Denver, Boulder is the perfect romantic escape for couples. Often referred to as the city within a park, Boulder entices adventurous travelers to explore its hiking trails, healthy restaurants, and historic buildings. With the serene Rocky Mountains lining the city’s horizon, Boulder residents tend to embrace active and healthy lifestyles, creating several incredible activities ideal for a romantic getaway.

Stroll down the historic, brick-lined Pearl Street Mall, enjoy a romantic dinner at The Flagstaff House in the “foodiest town in America”, or explore the fantastic landscape and wildlife found throughout Boulder’s breathtaking parks. Named the fittest city in America, Boulder is home to awe-inspiring outdoor attractions like Indian Peaks Wilderness and Chautauqua Park. Grab a bite to eat at the lovely Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse. This romantic restaurant offers its guests delicious food, an elegant atmosphere, and proximity to all the other romantic attractions. For a more relaxing experience, couples should head over to the Spa at St Julien, the most luxurious spa found in the Front Range.

For a quaint and romantic vacation, couples should book their stay at the nearby Eldora Ski Resort. As a lesser-known Colorado ski lodge, love-birds will enjoy the resort’s intimate atmosphere and exquisite terrain any ski-lover would love.

– Contributed by Ellie Ewert from Ellies Travel Tips

Telluride

While Colorado has many well-known scenic spots, there are still some that are less discovered. One of these places is Telluride, a former mining town turned world-class ski resort in Southwest Colorado. 

Telluride is gorgeous during any time of the year, and its small size makes it an ideal destination for a romantic getaway.

Aside from the famous ski slopes, couples can enjoy scenic hikes and mountain biking. Some of the best hikes in the Telluride area are Bridal Veil Falls, Jud Wiebe Trail, and Blue Lake Trail.
In the evening, downtown Telluride offers a cozy atmosphere with small local shops and restaurants against the backdrop of the San Juan Mountains. 

Also, don’t forget to take the FREE gondola to Mountain Village above Telluride. Here, you can enjoy grand views, try delicious food, and enjoy the beautiful setting.

What makes Telluride so special is its remote location. Unlike other big ski resorts in Colorado, this town is not easy to get to. It takes 6 hours to get to Telluride from Denver by car. A better option is to take a flight to the nearby town of Montrose and take a much shorter drive from there to Telluride. 

– Contributed by Daria Bachmann from TheDiscoveryNut

Ouray

Ouray sits in the San Juan Mountains, in-between rugged peaks with waterfalls right outside town. It’s gorgeous all year round, with entirely different vistas for summer wildflower fields, golden aspens in fall, and snowy vistas all winter. To get up close to these postcard-perfect scenes, couples can road trip down the Million Dollar Highway which runs right through town. For more adventure, there are several Ouray jeep trails for off-roading and hundreds of hiking paths.

The most romantic way to spend an evening here is soaking in the Ouray Hot Springs. Right in town, this recreational center has several pools filled with mineral springs sure to soften your skin. You can continue date night at one of the breweries (or the distillery) in town. Just pace yourself: this city is best for couples who love the outdoors and you’ll want plenty of energy for mountain biking, canyoning, and other activities in the area.

– Contributed by Becky Pokaro from SightDoing.net

Colorado Springs

Colorado Springs is a wonderful destination in Colorado for a romantic getaway. Because Colorado Springs is a big city, it has all the conveniences one might look for when traveling, but it is also located very close to the Rocky Mountains making it great for sightseeing. Colorado Springs is located just an hour and a half south of Denver. There are plenty of things to do on a romantic getaway in Colorado Springs such as drive up Pikes Peak, visit Garden of the Gods, or go on a guided tour of an English Castle Estate. When you go to drive up Pikes Peak, make sure you stop at SunWater Spa, where you can enjoy a relaxing and romantic spa day and soak in the mineral water that flows from a natural spring near Pikes Peak. 

Couples can also enjoy checking out the newly renovated Fine Arts Center. The Fine Arts Center also hosts concerts in their sculpture garden which is great for picnics and enjoying a nice sunny day. Colorado Springs is also home to one of the most romantic resorts in all of Colorado, the Broadmoor Resort. The Broadmoor Resort is built on a man-made lake and is a 5-star resort that anyone is bound to love. 

– Contributed by Jessica from UnEarthTheVoyage.com

Glenwood Springs

At less than three hours drive from Denver, Glenwood Springs is one of the most pleasant places to visit in Colorado and a great destination for a romantic – though quite active – getaway. This small town sits on the Rocky Mountains mountain range and is surrounded by the White River National Forest, which makes it a perfect place for wildlife spotting.

Activities in the area include hiking, visiting the Hanging Lake which is famous for its beautiful emerald waters; the Glenwood Caverns underground caves; mountain biking and climbing; rafting and kayaking and, in the winter months, all sorts of snow activities.

If you are in search of a more relaxing escape, you won’t be let down. Glenwood Springs is home to fabulous, historical open air hot springs which are best enjoyed on a cold winter day, when the steam from the hot water gives the place a magic aura. Yampah Spa and Vapor Cave is another fantastic spot.

Hotel Denver is by far the best accommodation option in town, with rooms decorated in classic style for a cozier effect.

Contributed by Claudia Tavani from MyAdventuresAcrossTheWorld.com

Beaver Creek

Beaver Creek, Colorado might be the most romantic mountain village in the world. It’s located in the Vail Valley of Colorado nestled among the aspens. Unlike most of Colorado’s premier ski resort towns, Beaver Creek isn’t a former frontier mining town. In fact, Beaver Creek is a completely planned village that exists solely for the pleasure of its residents and visitors. When Beaver Creek was opened, Colorado’s governor referred to it as “the Tiffany’s of ski resorts,” which rings true today and makes it the perfect backdrop for a romantic getaway.

Beaver Creek is upscale and intimate. 

The village feels posh from the second you enter the gates of Village Road. From there couples can book a romantic suite at one of many luxury resorts like the Park Hyatt or enjoy the privacy of a Beaver Creek Airbnb.

The obvious couples activity in Beaver Creek is hitting slopes and skiing together, after all, it’s a ski town. Still, couples can enjoy a romantic apres-ski elsewhere in Beaver Creek or share a romantic meal at any of the fine dining restaurants like Grouse Mountain Grill. Beaver Creek also has spas, like Exhale, where couples can relax and enjoy a massage or other spa treatments. From skiing to dinner dates and spa treatments, Beaver Creek is a wonderful romantic getaway in Colorado.

– Contributed by Derek Hartman from Robe-Trotting.com