In previous articles, we’ve provided advice on how to spend a weekend of movement, relaxation, and admiration in Telluride. We’ve given you ideas on where to ski, when to ski, and what to see, but what about those weekends and getaways where you want to smother yourself in romance? In this post, we’ll delve into our best tips and tricks on how to spend a romantic getaway in Telluride. From warm weather to the chilly months, we’ve got you covered for the best romantic activities and sights as well as beautiful, intimate spots for dining. Check out our guide to romance in Telluride—you won’t want to miss all the beauty and passion this town has to offer!
Chilly Getaway
Whether you head to Telluride for a Valentine’s Day getaway or just simply need a weekend of romance, the winter is the perfect time to visit. From downhill skiing and après-ski to nights cozying by the fire, there’s something for your every need. Take a look at some of our favorite winter romantic spots and activities just below!
Romantic Telluride Spots and Activities
Take a Gondola Ride
A must for any visitor, but especially those couples seeking an intimate and scenic encounter, the famous Telluride Gondola Ride is the perfect way to start your adventure. As you ascend from the Telluride station, you’ll experience the sweeping views of the valley and mountain peaks. It’s a 13-minute free ride, so it’s a must-do!
Book a Sleigh Ride
For years, sleigh rides have been seen as the perfect romantic activity. When you partner that with Telluride’s immeasurable beauty, you and your significant other will be in for quite the treat. Book your ride and arrive at the Aldasoro Family Ranch around 7 p.m. You’ll then take an intimate sleigh ride to the dinner site and enjoy a delectable meal at their authentic sheep camp in a heated tent. It’s an experience you and your lover won’t want to miss—the starlit sky is mesmerizing.
Try Skiing, Snowboarding, Snowshoeing
Of course, a lot of people come to Telluride for the winter activities—skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, winter horse rides, and ice climbing. All these activities are actually quite romantic when done with your partner. Spend your day hitting the slopes—maybe even ski out from your Telluride house rental—and then unwind together with some tasty drinks at one of the many mountaintop restaurants. The après-ski atmosphere sets the mood for a romantic, relaxing evening.
Warm Getaway
If you visit Telluride while the snow’s away, don’t worry, you’ll still take in plenty of magnificent sights. In fact, summer and fall in Telluride provide some of the town’s prettiest views. From the fall foliage on the mountains to the sparkling alpine lakes, something beautiful awaits around every corner—ideal for you and your partner to explore and admire.
Romantic Spots and Activities
Waterfall Hunting
There are four waterfalls near Telluride, so when you and your partner lace up your hiking boots and hit the trails, try to find some of these falls. Each of the four falls offers different views and trail experiences, so you can head to a different spot each day if you’re up for it. The hikes in Telluride alone get you right up next to the glory of nature, which can bring you and your partner closer than ever. That glory gets even more wonderful when you reach the falls—snap a picture in front for lasting memories.
Horseback Riding Through the Mountains
Just as a sleigh ride is romantic in the winter, so is horseback riding in the summer or autumn. The San Juan mountains are quite the thing to admire during the warmer months, so book a trail ride for you and your significant other and rejuvenate your spirits. There are afternoon trail rides, chuck wagon dinner rides, overnight trips, and more. They’ll all take you through aspen forests and alpine meadows. Don’t miss it!
Wander Main Street
A natural exploration spot for visitors to Telluride, Main Street is a great place for couples to take in the culture and beauty of the town. Right in the heart of downtown Telluride, start your morning off with brunch at The Butcher & the Baker, then head to the spa, the fine art gallery, or the various shops and pubs!
Romantic Telluride Restaurants
Telluride has plenty of scrumptious food options to offer, but these four are the best if you’re looking for intimacy.
Allred’s
One of our favorite mountaintop restaurants is the incredible Allred’s. Head here with your partner for some of the best views of the mountains and Telluride, and of course for a menu that will leave you perfectly satisfied. Stop here after your gondola ride to the top—just make sure you make a reservation so that you can really get the best views of the alpenglow.
Tunnel
This one-of-a-kind dining experience makes for the perfect romantic dinner between you and your sweetie. There’s a secret entranceway and only one table, so book a reservation well in advance. You’ll then delve into a six-course meal over two hours, and the menu changes every other week. It’s an experience you’ll never forget!
The Chop House
Found within the New Sheridan Hotel, the Chop House is centered in the heart of Telluride and is a wonderful fine-dining spot for your romantic getaway. If you and your partner are wine lovers, then you can enjoy the regional US and French wines available at their nitrogen wine bar and then dig into their vast menu. Open for breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Where to Stay
Turn to Exceptional Stays for all your romantic getaway lodging needs! We have just what you need for a relaxing or adventurous weekend—from our remote locations that are perfect for a couple’s getaway to our Mountain Village homes with ski-in ski-out capabilities. You won’t regret booking with us because not only are our homes luxurious and perfectly situated, but they also offer a variety of amenities.
Take our Alpenglow home in Mountain Village, for example. It’s ski-in ski-out, has a private hot tub, three levels, fitness rooms, deck and patio, game room, and five bedrooms. Go with your special someone or a group of couples and take advantage of all that Telluride offers you. Enjoy your romantic getaway in Telluride with Exceptional Stays.
