Lost Valley Ranch: Sedalia
Given the ranch’s location on nearly 26,000 acres of the Pike National Forest, one would think that living at Lost Valley Ranch would be like traveling through the wilderness. In fact, this all-inclusive property, located about 70 miles south of Denver, is more like a luxury ranch than a primitive campground. Couples can book a private stateroom with a deck with spectacular views and a fireplace (lit daily) for cozy evening cuddles. Much of the appeal of staying at Lost Valley Ranch comes from the quiet moments, aided by the cabin’s lack of internet access, televisions or phones.
In addition to digging, couples can bring their homestead visions to life with activities like horseback riding, cattle drives, rodeos and fly fishing. What’s more, the price includes three meals a day as well as the opportunity to have a picnic on a meadow or on a mountain top. Past visitors have enjoyed the dedicated staff at Lost Valley Ranch and say the staff goes above and beyond to make their stay a comfortable experience. Many people even opt for annual withdrawals.
Denver
Often overlooked in favor of the Rocky Mountains of the Northwest, Denver claims the title of the best romantic destination in Colorado. The Mile High City boasts a variety of attractions, from public parks to an impressive collection of museums and breweries. Couples can also book a brewery tour to learn more about Colorado’s beer scene. For foodie couples who prefer to explore the city’s dining scene, you’ll find plenty of restaurants along Restaurant Row in historic Larimer Square as well as the Uptown area. Duets can also sign up for the History Food Tour. The Denver Botanical Gardens offer adventurous travelers the opportunity to enjoy the rest of the Centennial state’s wildlife, and Washington Park in downtown Denver is spectacular at dusk. If you’re looking for a truly unique activity that isn’t available anywhere else, stop by the International Church of Cannabis for a light show and meditation experience.
Located outside of downtown Denver, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater remains a popular destination for nature and music lovers. The famous amphitheater hosts concerts as well as various events such as yoga classes and film screenings. Whether you’re staying for an event or just exploring the spectacular site and visiting the Visitor Center, Red Rocks Park and Amphitheater makes for an unforgettable date night.
Because of Denver’s proximity to Denver International Airport, most couples pass through Denver at least once on their way to other parts of Colorado. The Four Seasons and The Ritz-Carlton offer stops here to attract commuters, and the Crawford Hotel’s location at Denver Union Station and its train-themed rooms and public spaces make it a convenient base for Amtrak commuters and train enthusiasts. Makes For more lodging options, check out our list of the best hotels in Denver.
St Julien Hotel & Spa: Boulder
The tranquil St. Julian Hotel & Spa (one of Boulder’s best hotels) instantly puts travelers at ease with its elegant and eco-friendly design. St. Julian’s rooms complement the hotel’s quiet aesthetic, with slate floors, granite counters and earth tones complemented by views of the mountains or downtown Boulder. Recent guests particularly praised the hotel’s central location. St. Julian’s romance packages include perks like champagne with chocolate-covered strawberries, as well as hotel credit for use in the hotel’s dining areas and spa. The hotel serves guests impressive cuisine at Jill’s Restaurant and Bistro, while the T-Zero Lounge is the perfect place for a nightcap with live music and cocktails made with local Colorado wines.
Boulder’s Front Range location makes it a great option for a romantic weekend getaway. The hotel is located near the popular Boulder Creek Trail, a great place for hiking. E-bike tours, which allow visitors to tour Boulder and the surrounding area, are also available for couples who prefer to travel on two wheels rather than their own two feet. For more fun and a great workout, watch the sunrise over the boulder from Royal Arch or the Flatirons, both of which require challenging hikes. After a tiring day of exploring Boulder, traveling couples can check out the quirky storefronts at Pearl Street Mall.
Dunton Hot Springs: Dunton
Dunton provides a secluded retreat for couples hoping to truly escape the hustle and bustle during their stay in Colorado. Dunton was founded in 1885 and has gone from mining camp to ghost town to cattle ranch to backpacker ranch before becoming the luxury retreat it is today. The current owners have renovated the entire town, turning ramshackle log cabins into luxurious Dunton Hot Springs and later adding glamping at Dunton River Camp, setting the bar high for romantic destinations in the West. has gone The resort is located approximately 75 miles southwest of Telluride. It consists of a dozen handcrafted cabins and a luxurious marquee that combines historical elements with impressive amenities such as fireplaces and plunge pools.
The town’s main attraction is its namesake hot springs, which range in temperature from 85 to 106 degrees and can be enjoyed at various locations throughout the area. In addition, summer activities include horseback riding, fly fishing, hiking, mountaineering, mountain biking and rock climbing, and each winter includes outdoor activities such as snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. An optional romance package, which includes a private ceremony, two massages, champagne and more, is available for couples who want to immerse themselves in romance.
Telluride
Telluride’s bustling atmosphere appeals to couples who envision the perfect date for drinks and dancing. Affectionately nicknamed “Fuck It” for its vibrant social life, the city is full of salons, pubs and bars, so you can be sure to find the next visit for you and your significant other. Never far away. But that doesn’t mean Telluride lacks the essential features of a typical Colorado ski town: Telluride Ski Resort offers more than 2,000 acres of skiable terrain. The resort also includes the Mountain Village, which is accessible by a scenic gondola ride, and offers a wonderful selection of restaurants and bars along the cobblestone streets.
Couples visiting Telluride in the summer aren’t at a loss for fun, either. Numerous hiking trails criss-cross the surrounding mountains, allowing visitors to picnic near the abandoned mines or enjoy the spectacular views. City Park provides another option for a scenic walk, and is home to many of Telluride’s warm-weather festivals, which make for great date nights. The San Juan Skyway passes through two national forests and many small towns, satisfying anyone looking for an unforgettable road trip. Meanwhile, Ophir Pass provides an off-road option for couples looking for a slightly more adventurous ride.
After a busy day outside, head to the Lumière with Inspirato, one of Telluride’s premier hotels. This mountain village hotel has chic rooms with fireplaces, wooden floors and many additional luxury amenities.
Glenwood Springs
Don’t overlook relatively low-key Glenwood Springs when shopping for potential destinations for your next romantic getaway. The city is located in the beautiful Roaring Fork Valley at the confluence of the Colorado and Roaring Fork rivers. There are two popular lodging options in the area: Glenwood Hot Springs Resort and Iron Mountain Hot Springs, both of which boast numerous hot springs (think: hot tubs) where visitors can relax. Although a few days of marinating in hot water may sound like the perfect romantic getaway. For some, Glenwood Springs’ attractions are more diverse. The 3-mile Hanging Lake Trail offers a moderately challenging hike with beautiful views of the falls and one of Colorado’s best lakes. Meanwhile, adrenaline junkies can enjoy thrilling rides and cave tours at Glenwood Caverns Adventure Park.
Couples can stay at one of Glenwood Springs’ relatively inexpensive hotels or go for an ultra-luxe option in the nearby town of Aspen, about 40 miles to the southeast. Visitors to Vail, about 60 miles east of Glenwood Springs, can book a Glenwood Hot Springs tour that includes transportation between the two towns and time to soak in the area’s hot springs.
Fort Collins
Fort Collins, located about 65 miles north of Denver, sits along the Cache La Poudre River at the base of the Rocky Mountains. Couples visiting in warmer weather can stroll through Colorado State University’s annual flower gardens, where more than 1,000 different varieties of annual plants are cultivated. Additional warm-weather activities in Fort Collins take advantage of the city’s natural attractions, from river rafting to biking on more than 200 miles of paved bike paths. If you visit after the weather cools off, Fort Collins still offers plenty of things to do, eat and drink. Grab a bite and shop at Jessup Farm Artisan Village, which offers artisan goods and farm-to-table dining, then visit any of the city’s more than 20 craft breweries, including the famous New Belgium Brewing Company.
Accommodation in Fort Collins is also cheaper than Denver and Boulder, making the city a great option for couples on a budget. Elizabeth Hotel, Autograph Collection, one of the best hotels in the city, surprises guests with its musical theme. Guests can use in-room record players and then head to the Sunset Lounge to enjoy live music and views of the Rocky Mountains through floor-to-ceiling windows. Additionally, The Emporium, the on-site restaurant, pairs wine with French and American-style menus, making it the perfect option for a romantic dinner.
Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa: Gateway
The additions to Gateway Canyons Resort & Spa are part of the hotel’s appeal. Gateway Utah is located just east of the Colorado border, making Grand Junction more than 50 miles away, but most visitors appreciate the scenic drive. The Western-style hotel offers a variety of activities, from exploring historic ranches to hiking and mountain biking. Gateway Canyons also offers a variety of romantic options, including an onsite spa and seasonal pools overlooking the surrounding rock formations. Dining options include Entrada and Paradox Grille, and there is also an on-site cafe, pool bar and snack bar. Private dining options are available for anyone looking to enhance the romance of the evening.
Additional activities in and around Canyonlands include visiting the Gateway Automotive Museum or exploring surrounding parks such as Arches and Grand Mesa National Park, although the latter is about 100 miles away. Vacation rentals are also a great way to explore Colorado’s more sparsely populated Western Slope, especially if you have a specific town or hike you want to cross off your bucket list.
