Containing the highest and the best of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado is certainty a state which prides itself on its natural wonders, but there is more than climbing, skiing and white water rafting to enjoy during a stay. Cities such as the capital Denver have their own story to tell and there are further stories to uncover in the historic trails and forts which map out the European settlement of western America. The hotels Colorado has are as diverse as the state itself and so the best one to choose will depend on any specific location, and the reasons for visiting one of the most dramatic, and certainly the highest, state in America.
For tourist purposes, it helps to divide the state into distinct regions although in reality, due to the nature of the rocky Mountain landscape, these are less well defined. At the heart of the state lies a mountain valley, home to Denver, far and away the most populous city. The city is an elegant mix of heritage sites and architecture within a modernist cosmopolitan cityscape and here is where to find the best hotels for business purposes. The wider central region is also home to the other main cities of Aurora, Boulder and Colorado Springs, each of which has its own unique appeal for visitors. Further cities of interest include the historic frontier city of Durango, and Fort Collins, a thriving university city.
East of the Denver area lies the Midwestern plains, the least populated area, much of which is given over to agriculture. Boulder and Fort Collins are to the north and are the main urban centres of the Front Range, a region which includes the northern part of the Rockies as well as Rocky Mountain National Park, over a third of which is above the timber line. Northwestern Colorado continues the dramatic natural landscapes into canyon country, a feature too of the Southwestern region, which in addition to the premier natural attraction of the Black Canyon in Gunnerson National Park, contains the Grand Mesa, the largest flat-top mountain in the world. The ancient Indian cliff dwellings of Mesa Verde National Park are also found here.
Last but not least is South Central Colorado and this region is very much the high country, containing the San Juan mountains and famous ski resorts such as Aspen. Given that this area towers over the flat plains of Denver, itself a mile above sea level, it is worth taking some time to acclimatise to the altitude before heading off for mountain adventures. The skiing is the main attraction here and although Aspen has a certain reputation it is just one of 26 ski resorts. What this means for visitors is a range of difficulties and challenges to suit any skier regardless of ability and a skiing and snowboarding culture which makes it fun for everybody. In the summer months, the slopes and peaks are very popular for hiking and mountain biking.
The hotels in the ski resorts will have a very definite emphasis on the outdoor activities whatever the season, and there will often be ski facilities and other services on site to ensure guests make the most of the experience. The Alpine scenery also lends itself well for spa, health and wellness resorts and there are hotels which display all the mountain charm and appeal ideally suited for the purpose. Throughout the forest landscapes and national parks the hotels may take on a more country lodge style while in the towns and cities there will be hotels, motels, guest houses and plenty of other ways to enjoy home comforts and Colorado hospitality.
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