Seasons Greetings From Telluride

Ask most any Colorado native what the prettiest part of the state is, and more often than not Telluride tops their list. Tucked away in a box canyon and engulfed by the San Juan Mountain Range, Telluride trumps other ski towns for its stunning views. During this past year, an increasing number of urbanites have discovered its remote charm—taking up permanent residence along the no-stoplight downtown. Though well-known for winter pursuits and luxury winter holidays, this alpine hideaway shines during every season. With the Club’s six four-bedroom residences as your home base, spend your mountain vacation eating, playing, and relaxing like a local year-round with our top picks of must dos and can’t misses.

WINTER/SPRING

Eat: Talk of winter dining in Telluride, and there’s always conversation around Alpino Vino. Located on-mountain at nearly 12,000 feet with panoramic vistas of the Wilson Range, the restaurant is only accessed via skis or (at night) by luxury snowcat. What to order? Go all out with the five-course, wine-paired dinner menu.

Play: Skiing is the obsession of choice, and for good reason. Diehard skiers claim bragging rights on hike-to terrain off Black Iron Bowl and Palmyra Peak (not for the faint of heart and the highest point of Telluride Ski Resort), while there’s plenty of fun beginner and intermediate runs, too. Non-skiers can access beautiful landscapes near downtown via snowshoes or cross-country adventures.

Relax: The Spa at Madeleine Auberge Hotel & Residences touts a nature-inspired spa menu and town’s top therapists. Opt for a deep-tissue massage with arnica-infused, anti-inflammatory oil to restore overworked hamstrings, or try the hot river stone massage, created to combat fatigue and stress.

SUMMER

Eat: Al fresco dining doesn’t get any better than when in the mountains, and Telluride’s outdoor patios won’t disappoint. Coffee and pastries at Baked in Telluride are a must, as is the short line (worth the wait) at Gnar for the town’s top tacos. Another casual favorite is Brown Dog Pizza, while more upscale fare awaits at The New Sheridan Chop House. Those in the know sip handcrafted cocktails at The Tunnel — a tucked away speakeasy, while the “there” bar (yes, that’s the name) is quaint, cozy, and renowned for small plates and a feisty, mezcal-infused “El Diablo” cocktail.

Play: You’ll find every alpine summer pursuit in Telluride—mountain biking, hiking, whitewater rafting, and more, but scratch golfers flock to this corner of Colorado, too. Exclusive Resorts Members enjoy preferred tee times and discounted rates at the scenic Telluride Golf Course, known for indelible views and challenging play. Lastly, anglers relish in gold-medal fly fishing along the San Miguel River.

Relax: Telluride is famous for summer music festivals. Plan ahead for the star-studded Telluride Bluegrass Festival, and the newer, rock-and-blues-infused RIDE Festival. Or, pack a gourmet picnic and spread a blanket at Telluride Town Park, a favorite lazy-day outing of every local.

FALL

Eat: Fall in Telluride is the time to take a mellow mountain bike ride from downtown to the nearby Telluride Brewing Company, which handcrafts artisanal beers straight from the Rocky Mountain snowmelt. Plus, it claims some of the best pizza in town, too.

Play: Leaf peeping in Telluride is some of the most brilliant in all of Colorado, so whether you hike to the famous Bridal Veil Falls or decide to venture farther afield, be prepared for Instagram-worthy shots around every corner. Dunton Hot Springs is worth an overnight too—an 1800s mining town turned cozy resort and located just over Telluride Mountain (about a 40-minute drive, with spectacular fall views).

Relax: Members receive special access to The Peaks Resort & Spa, located in Telluride’s Mountain Village (a short walk from Club residences). With customized wellness programs and enrichment classes, balance is bliss here. Try the Mountain Moisture Drench—an anti-altitude remedy that hydrates and revives.