The Ultimate Colorado Road Trip for Sophisticated Explorers

Road trips offer complete freedom during an adventure. In the privacy of a car, travelling has never been easier. In addition to Colorado’s surroundings being both beautiful and breathtaking, the sophisticated explorer can uncover hidden gems in the colourful state on the road trip of a lifetime.

Day 1: Denver 

The ‘Mile High City’ of Denver is where urban sophistication meets outdoor adventure. The perfect way to kick off a Colorado road trip, watch an American football match at the famous Empower Field at Mile High, take a stroll down East Colfax Avenue or visit the incredible art galleries and museums that the vibrant city has to offer.

Where to stay: The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Denver is situated in the heart of downtown and is just a few minutes walk from Larimer Square, Denver’s most historic block where guests can enjoy one of its outstanding restaurants. This trendy hotel has a quirky yet sophisticated style and boasts luxury amenities including a spectacular lobby and authentic Italian cuisine from Panzano, and nightly wine social hour.

Day 2: Denver to Glenwood Springs (2 hours 30 minutes)

In need of some R&R? The wellness hotspot, Glenwood Springs, sits in the Rocky Mountains and is neighboured by enchanting turquoise waters in the vast White River National Forest. The relaxing hot springs will heal the mind, body and spirit.

Where to stay: The Glenwood Hot Springs Resort sits within walking distance of the historic downtown Glenwood Springs where travellers can enjoy shopping, restaurants and nightlife, and is surrounded by scenic views of the mountains and the majestic Colorado River.

Day 3: Glenwood Springs to Grand Junction (1 hour 10 minutes)

On the west of Glenwood Springs sits Grand Junction, a city known as the state’s wine country. Sophisticated explorers can participate in one of the many wildlife, vineyard or orchard tours on offer. With the 26th Annual Colorado Mountain Winefest taking place on 14th September, there really is no better time to visit.

Where to stay: The Colorado Wine Country Inn sits amidst 21 acres of vineyards and offers an authentic wine country experience including tastings of private label wines, vineyard tours, fine dining and spectacular views.

Day 4: Grand Junction 

After a day of drinking the finest wines, enjoy a relaxed morning with a stroll into this historic town. Travellers can choose to explore a local farmers market or enjoy lunch at one of Grand Junction’s many farm-to-fork restaurants. The afternoon can be spent hiking and exploring the rust-coloured canyon, whilst discovering the astonishing panoramic views over the Grand Valley.

Day 5: Grand Junction to Aspen (2 hours)

After a scenic drive east of Grand Junction, travellers will find themselves in the mountainous town of Aspen. Spend the day in the mountains on Independence Pass (a road that reaches 3,685m), which offers breathtaking scenery. Visitors could also opt to spend the day in the town and enjoy the high-end shopping and spas.

Where to stay: The Limelight Hotel is within walking distance from The Silver Queen Gondola which travels up Aspen Mountain where visitors can take a trip to the summit and feel on top of the world (quite literally).

Day 6: Aspen to Breckenridge (2 hours 20 minutes)

Breckenridge is located at the base of the Rocky Mountains and is known for its Gold Rush history. The town retains a pioneering character, with many of the local shops still sporting their 19th-century storefronts. Breckenridge is every traveller’s personal paradise with so much on offer from zip-lining and hiking to cycling and shopping.

Where to stay: The Mountain Thunder Lodge is a luxurious complex tucked into the woods of Breckenridge whilst also being one block from all the action of Main Street.

Day 7: Breckenridge to Estes Park (2 hours 35 minutes)

Estes Park is an outdoor lovers’ paradise, known for its wildlife watching and picturesque beauty. Road trippers can spot elk, moose and bighorn sheep all whilst enjoying amazing views of the Rocky Mountains.

Where to stay: The Stanley Hotel provides spas, bars and restaurants to refresh and relax after the journey.

Day 8: Rocky Mountain National Park

In close proximity to Estes Park, Rocky Mountain National Park is home to towering mountain peaks, vast valleys, open meadows and ragged rock sculptures as well as 480 km of hiking trails. This outstanding natural landscape offers a wide range of activities such as fishing in the Big Thompson River, horseback riding, golf, and bike tours. Not to mention the wonderful wildlife on offer including bears, moose, elk, marmot and bald eagles.

Day 9: Estes Park to Loveland (45 minutes)

The Sweetheart City known as Loveland is a short drive from the Rocky Mountains. The destination is famous for its spectacular agriculture and artistic way of life and is home to one of the largest sculpture gardens in the country. Loveland is recognised for its authentic ranches where guests can spend time in the saddle and take in the mesmerising landscapes.

Where to stay: Experience a ranch stay at Sylvan Dale. This charming experience offers cosy cabins and friendly guest houses, enabling visitors to disconnect from their everyday lives and immerse themselves in the beauty of the valley.

Day 10: Loveland to Denver (1 hour)

Just a quick trip south will lead travellers back to Denver where they can dine out for one last hoorah on Larimer Square. Before heading to Denver International Airport where they will bring home an abundance of happy holiday memories.

How to get there

It’s never been easier for travellers to visit Colorado with both United Airlines and British Airways flying direct from London Heathrow to Denver, daily.