A Summer of Fun at the A-Lodge Adventure Hotel

Twenty-Five years ago we had the pleasure of visiting the great state of Colorado. It's a beautiful state with big outdoor spaces that you can explore. There's hiking, boating, rock climbing, camping, mountain biking, fishing and more! There's always something new to see and do in and near Boulder, Colorado.

Are You Ready to Discover A-Lodge Adventure Hotel?

Nature is summer 2020’s most sought after vacation amenity, and the A-Lodge now serves up the great outdoors with a good dose of fresh air, fun and adventure in two locations: Boulder, CO. and now in Lyons, CO. Created and curated with the philosophy of providing access, adventure and amenities, A-Lodge is for both the adventure and leisure seeker alike.

Answering the call for a new type of vacation experience, the A-Lodge brilliantly combines nature with rustic hospitality, and both destinations offer plenty of room to be both socially distant, and socially active. Whether a guest is looking for climbing, fishing, skiing, cycling, hiking or taking in the town, the A-Lodge offers instant access to nature, while providing the right amenities to return to after an inspiring day off the beaten path.

Additionally, with their unique size and setting, both A-Lodge properties can be transformed into the ideal corporate retreat or family reunion getaway. With one property set against the backdrop of Boulder Creek and the other at the entrance of Rocky Mountain National Park, these once rustic hideouts are now full-service, re-imagined guest lodges.

A-Lodge Boulder is tucked just two miles from Downtown Boulder in beautiful Fourmile Canyon. Featuring 27 private cabin rooms and suites with private entry and porches overlooking Boulder Creek (no elevators needed), A-Lodge also created a one-of-a-kind hostel room that sleeps up to 12 guests.

For those wanting to get a bit closer to nature while still enjoying all the amenities of the property, four campsites under the trees and stars await. Add to that, two Mercedes Benz Sprinter Adventure Vans, and the dream of #VanLife is a reality and the possibilities for summer fun and adventure are endless.

Accommodations at A-Lodge Boulder range from Deluxe Queen rooms and suites to a Sunset Cabin to an Adventure Suite. A-Lodge also provides the only camping site within five minutes of Boulder, and features the option of car camping or campsites on raised decks overlooking the A-Lodge.

Amenities at A-Lodge Boulder include:

Pool and Hot Tub
Main Lodge – Community Room and Saloon serving craft beers and spirits
Creekside Pavilion and BBQ space
Slacklining over the creek
Private Meeting Room
Outdoor Yoga
Mountain Bike Trails
Endless Hiking Trails
Shuttle Service

A-Lodge Lyons, is small in size but big on adventure. With just six private guest rooms, and a planned beer garden and events area set to open later this year, A-Lodge Lyons provides a boutique hotel experience that has the spirit of the outdoors built into its DNA. With its Lyons locale, guests can explore the “small town with big character” and enjoy the great local dining scene and classic Main Street, as well as experience endless outdoor recreation opportunities. Guests can also create a hybrid experience by booking the Adventure Van for a few nights of #VanLife for their trip.

To book reservations for A-Lodge or the A-Lodge Adventure Van visit:

www.A-Lodge.com or https://vans.a-lodge.com or call for reservations: 303-444-0882.

Escape to Colorado to Unwind and Unplug

Image Credit - Matt Inden/Miles

Twenty year ago I was very fortunate to spend a lovely week in the great state of Colorado. At the time, we only got to explore southern Colorado and spent the entire week hiking, horseback riding and camping. It's a beautiful state with a lot to explore.

Today we are featuring 5 unique ways you can escape to Colorado to Unwind and Unplug courtesy of the Colorado Tourism Office. You can request a free visitor's guide by visiting the link at the bottom of this travel feature.

Colorado specializes in year ‘round stress relief, whether you want to spend time with friends and family or embark on a solo journey, there are countless ways to relax and rejuvenate in Colorado: unwind on a guest ranch, wander remote trails, partake in epic stargazing, or sip and stay at a winery. At mealtime, nourish your body with locally sourced herbs, meats, fruits and vegetables harvested straight from Centennial State soil. With summer on the horizon, spring in Colorado invites you to establish a fun and revitalizing foundation of health and happiness for endless adventures ahead.

Ranch Life: Take your sights off the stresses of everyday life by settling in to the distinct rhythm of a new environment at a Colorado Dude and Guest Ranch. Across the state, these rustic getaways offer inspiration and respite in the form of learning, playing, relaxing and adventuring. At Rawah Ranch, nourish the body and soul with gourmet meals designed to fuel a week of campfires, fly-fishing, horseback riding, wildlife watching, hiking and more. At Chico Basin Ranch, enjoy the intimacy of limited guests—never more than 6—and sleep like a true cowboy after a day of ranch work. Wake well rested and take a dip in the spring-fed lake that’s home to a host of waterfowl, then sketch, write or siesta on the shores before an evening hike next to Chico Creek. At Majestic Dude Ranch in Mancos, enjoy everything from horse rides to snowmobile adventures, saunas to skeet shooting, and work up an appetite for ranch-gourmet cuisine like fresh trout and prime rib. At Waunita Hot Springs Ranch, enjoy trail rides on National Forest land, then rest and restore your muscles at the on-site hot springs.

Close Encounters with Culture: An ongoing education is directly linked to health and longevity, and Colorado culture and heritage offer endless inspiration. The little-known Vogel Canyon in southeast Colorado is home to petroglyphs, wildlife, birding and a placid river that meanders through the stunning landscape. Colorado’s premier archeological wonder, Mesa Verde National Park, offers fourteen centuries of history accessible during the day; in the evenings, camp at the Morefield Campground and gaze at some of the best stars in the state. At the nearby Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch, follow the road early Mormons used to migrate to Utah to this guest ranch -originally owned by a legendary cowboy- in a region with more than 5,000 archeological sites. At Bent’s Old Fort National Historic Site in La Junta, leave your wallet and your financial worries at home when you celebrate the Centennial of National Parks by visiting during “Fee Free” 2016.

Image Credit - Matt Inden/Miles

Forage, Feast, and Feel Better: Put good in to get good out, so give your body a break, learn something new, and reap the benefits of Colorado expertise and opportunities with foraging and farming opportunities across the state. At Earth’s Green Gifts, enroll in a wild edible plant workshop for springtime identification tips. Commit to the “Spirit of the Herbs”, a six-week introduction to herbalism at Three Leaf Farm in Lafayette. In Durango, celebrate Earth Day with Turtle Lake Refuge or stop by any Tuesday or Friday for wild harvested and locally grown lunches. In Silver Plume, get some R & R at Dram Apothecary’s new B & B, and learn all you can from owner and Colorado native Shae Whitney, who utilizes her collegiate background in Food Science, Ecological Agriculture and Botany to forage for the ingredients in her syrups and bitters. After a day helping with farm chores, rest easy at the Horse and Hen Farmhouse Inn, and wake to a bountiful, farm fresh breakfast. Make sure your vacation road map includes a stop at one of Meadow Lark Farms traveling farm-to-table dinners, which are held at various farms and prepared fresh from the day’s harvest. 

The Sublime vs. The Screen: On your next Colorado-cation, set screens aside and tune into the wonders of some of the country’s most stunning scenic places. Home to four National Parks and 42 State Parks, Colorado embraces the Centennial celebration of our National Park Service. For an approachable adventure, trace the rim of the Black Canyon of the Gunnison on the North Vista Trail and enjoy stunning views of the canyon and the Precambrian basement rock—nearly 2 billion years old—to put things in perspective. Seek serenity and solitude in the Arkansas River Valley’s newly designated Browns Canyon National Monument, where the nearly 3,000-foot elevation range boasts a variety of wildlife species and plentiful opportunities for fun. Nurture your soul stargazing at the John Martin Reservoir State Park, where the nearby Las Animas County has less than 1 person per square mile. Camp year-round at the Lake Hasty Campground for mesmerizing views, and for more epic skies in the northern prairies, head to the 193,060-acre oasis of grass and sky at Pawnee National Grassland. At Jackson Lake State Park in Fort Morgan, exalt in the reflection the Milky Way makes in serene lake waters.

Image Credit - Matt Inden/Miles

Sip the Stress Away: Uncork and unwind at one of the Centennial State’s interactive and unique wineries. Hunker down in a cool, underground cellar in Palisade for an old-world experience at Stone Cottage Cellars, where you can stay in the original stone cottage located in the center of the vineyard and constructed of fieldstone cleared from the vineyard. Lavender lends its calming, soothing scent to St. Kathryn Cellars, in Palisade, where their lavender wine is crafted with locally grown product. In Hotchkiss, camp, taste and pick at a visit to Delicious Orchards, home of Big B’s juices, where you can sample a wide variety of ciders. If you fancy a brew, beer tastes better at 12,000 feet, so grab a pint of Colorado craft beer, sit back, and enjoy one of Colorado's 300+ licensed craft breweries.

Through a rejuvenating combination of natural offerings and unplugged activities, Colorado offers an ideal escape to relax and restore. The mountains, canyons and plains all supply stunning vistas and opportunities for adventure or for a soothing, meditative stroll. Music festivals across the state provide respite, laughter and social interactions guaranteed to enhance your mind and uplift your spirit. Locally grown foods and craft wines, ciders and beers work together to nourish you, one nurturing bite or sip at a time. Ditch the screens and the stress, and head for some Colorado genuine and lasting peace of mind.

ABOUT COLORADO - Colorado is a four-season destination offering unparalleled adventure and recreational pursuits, a thriving arts scene, a rich cultural heritage, flavorful cuisine, and 25 renowned ski areas and resorts. The state's breathtaking scenic landscape boasts natural hot springs, the headwaters of seven major rivers, many peaceful lakes and reservoirs, 11 national parks and monuments, over 850 farm and ranches that are open to visitors, and 58 mountain peaks that top 14,000 feet. For more information or a copy of the 2016 Colorado Official State Vacation Guide,
visit www.COLORADO.com or call 1-800-COLORADO.

Discover Your Winter Holiday in Durango Colorado

Durango winters offer the splendor of Mother Nature’s snowfall paired with the vibrant personality of a Colorado mountain town. Southwestern Colorado guarantees experiences as fresh and thrilling as the untouched powder that stars in every skier’s fantasy. Whether your perfect holiday finds you carving powdered turns through the magnificent mountains or curled up watching the snowfall with a warm cup of cocoa, this winter in Durango is sure to inspire, invigorate and refresh your spirit. www.durango.org

New at Purgatory Resort
Making a debut this winter with millions of dollars of improvements and additions, the recently rechristened Purgatory Resort offers a variety of activities for snow enthusiasts of any pursuit. The mountain resort provides incredible terrain for skiing and snowboarding of all experience levels, as well as bars, restaurants, and other winter amenities that make time spent on and off the slopes enjoyable for all. A new high-speed quad on the backside of the mountain opens this winter, whisking skiers and snowboarders from base to summit and revealing new trails to explore. The exciting and impactful changes coming to the resort bring a fresh and thrilling stimulus to a beautiful mountainscape that is already a winter recreationalist’s paradise.

New Ways to Experience Winter
Everyone has a favorite way of experiencing the thrills and chills of winter. Cozy up inside historic accommodations like the Strater Hotel, pamper yourself at Signature Salon or one of the town’s other luxury spas, or browse the nationally acclaimed galleries and boutique shops. If winter won’t find you anywhere but outside, ski, snowboard, snowshoe, sleigh ride or snowmobile to explore the show-stopping wilderness. Try a new pursuit this winter: dogsled at Durango Dog Ranch or ice climb with San Juan Mountain Guides and experience winter from a whole new perspective.

Holiday on the Rails
Nothing paints an idyllic wintertime picture like the image of the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad chugging beneath snowcapped peaks and over icy rivers. Pajama-clad families enjoy the longstanding tradition of The Polar ExpressTM, a family-friendly event packed with holiday magic, nostalgic entertainment and holiday treats. A new tradition on the rails this year: the D&SNGRR invites families to choose and cut their own Christmas tree from Cascade Canyon as part of their train-riding excursion, all supervised by a United States Forest Service ranger. The Photographer’s Train provides a unique opportunity for amateurs and afficionados alike to revel in the beauty of their surroundings for up-close photo options.

Seasonal Celebrations
Holiday-centric festivals like Noel Night provide shopping opportunities, arts and crafts and seasonal revelries. Returning for its saucy 38th year, Snowdown, Durango’s irreverent celebration of the season, will honor winter with traditional gaieties and a line-up of raucous events, all with a bodacious 1980’s theme. The Winter Solstice Artisan Market features the craftsmanship of local and regional artists who create ceramics, jewelry, metal, textiles, glass, wood, notecards, ornaments, calendars, photography, painting, and drawing.

Art
As a cultural and artistic destination, a multitude of nationally acclaimed galleries offer an escape from the cold. The Durango Arts Center presents fresh theatrical offerings, from family fun pieces like The Music Man to contemporary and cutting-edge productions . For a hands-on experience, educational classes like book making and relief printmaking impart unique and creative knowledge, while also leaving you with a memento of the magical experience of a winter in Durango.

A Flurry of Family Fun
Whether dodging snowballs or building snowmen, the winter season is full of opportunities for frosty fun. Enjoy the thrill of sledding or tubing at one of many popular spots, like Purgatory Resort or Chapman Hill. Adaptive Sport Association’s winter program offers state-of-the-art equipment and trained instructors for people with disabilities to experience the winter season on the slopes. Lace up a pair of skates and take a turn at the Chapman Hill ice skating rink, where lessons and free skate can turn any novice into a pro. Cheat chilly temperatures at the Trimble Spa and Natural Hot Springs, where relaxing thermal-heated pools and spa facilities will warm adults and children alike.

When flurries begin to fall in Durango, locals and tourists alike embrace the invigorating winter season. Easy access to majestic landscapes and an abundance of the outdoors coupled with the unique charm and perspective of the mountain town make Durango a haven for a perfect winter holiday.

About the Durango Area Tourism Office: The Durango Area Tourism Office is a non-profit organization operating with the mission to promote Durango and La Plata County’s multitude of tourism attractions, events and services. 1-800-525-8855, www.durango.org. Connect with them at “visitdurango” on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

Aerial America: Southwest Collection DVD by Smithsonian Channel

As a travel blogger, I love to sit down and watch DVDs that take me to far away places and introduce me to new sights and sounds. One such DVD is this brand new Aerial America: Southwest Collection DVD by the Smithsonian Channel.

The DVD features 5 southwest beautiful states: Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, Utah and Colorado. The approximate running time is 230 minutes. From: The Inception Media Group.

When I was a teenager, I spent several years living in Arizona and absolutely loved it! I guess that is when I officially caught the traveling bug. Almost every weekend my family went out on road trips across the Southwest. I remember visiting Sedona, Flagstaff, Scottsdale and many other location throughout Arizona. I especially loved visiting the old deserted ghost towns!

The DVD starts with the great state of Arizona where the Grand Canyon is just one of the many magnificent marvels you get to explore. Throughout this episode you will learn about the Copper State's rich history, awe-inspiring landscapes, spectacular sunsets and the infamous gunfights that went on during the old southwest days.

Next you will move on to the Nevada episode which I really loved! I have only ventured into this state 3 times and it was many years ago. In this episode you will discover the highs & lows of the state's rich history and how it became the land of big builders and even bigger dreamers. From the old mining towns and ghost towns to the Hoover Dam, there is definitely something for everyone who wants to learn more about this great state called Nevada.

The third episode on the DVD will take you to the beautiful state of New Mexico. Out of all of the southwest states, I find New Mexico to be the prettiest. I am not sure why, but I do! During this episode you will explore some of the 121,000 square miles that make up this state. You will learn about many of the national treasures from the Rio Grande to adobe structures & dormant volcanoes of years' past. New Mexico is known as the Land of Enchantment and it is definitely that! The episode goes into the old cowboy tales, UFO sightings and more! Years ago I remember my family taking a trip to New Mexico to watch the famous hot air balloon races...this episode brought back all of those fond memories from that trip.

Next you will move on to the Utah portion of the DVD. I have only been in Utah twice in my lifetime and I hope to return someday soon. Utah is known as the Beehive State, a land that offers endless surprises & possibilities. From the pinnacles of Arches National Park to the white terrain of Bonnesville Salt Flats and the tragedy of the Donner Party to the arrival of Bringham Young, the state of Utah has a lot to offer to travelers...young and old alike!

Finally, you will end your visual traveling experience with the Colorado episode on the DVD. If you have never visited this great state, Colorado is known for having some of the highest peaks, tallest dunes and the largest single-site brewery in America. When I was about 15 years old...we took a trip to see all of the gorgeous Red Rock formations that are out in the dessert areas of the state. If you are into skiing, the DVD will explore a little bit of the ski slopes in Aspen too.

Overall, I LOVE this DVD! I now live on the east coast and only travel out west once every 10-12 years or so. Yes, I know I need to visit there more frequently! Watching the DVD brought back all kinds of childhood memories for me and it was nice to relive them once again. In addition, I made a bucket list of all of the destinations that I want to see (in-person) that I learned about via this fantastic DVD.

You can learn more by visiting the Smithsonian Channel online and by visiting Inception Media Group. You will find this brand new DVD release available for purchase starting on July 22nd, 2014.

Disclaimer: A free copy of this DVD was provided to me for this review. No monetary compensation has been received. My thoughts & opinions on this item are 100% my own and are unbiased. Your opinions & views may differ.

Aspen Bed and Breakfast Inns

Aspen Bed and Breakfast Options - By Fred Tittle

If you are going to Aspen for a romantic getaway or just want to be treated like one of the family, then you seriously need to consider staying at one of the many charming Aspen bed and breakfast inns. There are several to choose from ranging from historic Victorians to modern architectural gems.

Here is a brief rundown on some you might consider.

* Independence Square B & B - Located in the heart of downtown Aspen, this 1889 lodge is filled with authentic old west charm and ambiance. It is within walking distance of downtown shops and restaurants and within a block from Aspen Mountain and the Silver Queen Gondola. The Independence features a rooftop deck and hot tub. Rooms are air conditioned for warmer days and you will enjoy a continental breakfast each morning before setting out from this centrally located bed and breakfast. Phone: +1-970-920-2313

* The Snow Queen Bed and Breakfast Lodge - Near downtown Aspen, this historic Victorian bed and breakfast offers genuine old west hospitality and charm. Within an easy walk to the Silver Queen Gondola and free shuttle service, The Snow Queen is an ideal romantic retreat for an ideal romantic vacation. Phone: +1-970-925-8455

* Hotel Lenado - With 19 guest rooms and award winning architecture, the Hotel Lenado stands apart from more conventional bed and breakfast inns. Each rooms features a four-poster hickory or carved apple wood bed, some with wood burning stoves, wet bars, and whirlpool baths. You are pampered with down comforters and a complimentary breakfast served daily including Belgain Waffles, Eggs Benedict or Cinnamon French Toast. You can lounge on the roof top deck and enjoy the hot tub while taking in the view of Aspen Mountain. Hotel Lenado is conveniently close to the best of Aspen shopping, walking and restaurant. Phone: +1-970-925-6246

* Hotel Durant - Located just three blocks from downtown Aspen, this bed and breakfast features 19 Bavarian style guest rooms. After a day on the slopes or exploring Aspen and the surrounding area, enjoy complimentary wine and cheese or a soothing dip in the Jacuzzi. If you prefer curl up with a book or visit with other guests in front of the fireplace in the lobby. Phone: +1-970-925-8500

* The Annabelle Inn - The Annabelle Inn features 35 individually decorated rooms. On site are two hot tubs. All rooms are provided internet access and you can start each day with a complimentary breakfast. Many guests will appreciate the laundry facilities and ski storage area provided by this bed and breakfast. Some rooms come with balconies and/or fireplaces. You'll find the Roaring Fork river (and Rio Grande walk/bike path), The Aspen Music School's Benedict music tent, Aspen Institute, Givens Institute, free skier and Maroon Lake busses, and Aspen's famous shopping and dining all within a short walk from the Annabelle Inn. Phone: +1-970-925-3822

If you are one of the lucky people who will get to visit Aspen this year, make your trip even more memorable with a stay at a romantic and charming Aspen bed and breakfast.

In the mood for a romantic Florida bed and breakfast? Check out Casa De Solana in St Augustine FL.