GETTING BACK TO NATURE – IN STYLE
It’s easy to get overwhelmed these days. Politics, work, and the state of the world all suddenly feel like a heavier load to carry than ever before. That’s why it’s more important than ever to find opportunities to unplug, unwind, and unravel the tangles of day-to-day life. In other words: we all need an escape.
One great escape is Gateway Canyons, an adventure resort in Colorado that welcomes guests back to nature in style. Majestic red rocks, breathtaking desert scenery, and a luxurious chance to soothe the spirit. Here are seven ways you can restore your connection with nature with a few blissful days in Gateway, Colorado.
1. DISCOVER RANCH LIFE ON HORSEBACK
With more than 500 acres of well-marked horseback riding trails, Gateway Canyons’ Palisade Ranch is the perfect place to trade your wheels in for a trusty steed and explore the red rock canyons. Experienced and friendly guides make sure that both beginners and expert equestrians are comfortable in the saddle, and the stunning scenery guarantees that you will never be bored. And for those who really fall in love with life on horseback, the stables team offers riding lessons, including how to handle, harness, and care for horses.
2. SPEND A NIGHT AT A DUDE RANCH
What better way to end a long day of exploring the trails of Uncompahgre Plateau on horseback than with a fireside cookout under the stars? It’s the ultimate Colorado experience – with a luxury twist. Maybe the cowboys and cowgirls didn’t have a spa or a full-service gym at their dude ranch to retreat to after their days on the range, but they do at Gateway Canyons! At this dude ranch, you can play and relax in style — exactly the combination of rustic living and serene tranquility you’ve been searching for.
3. EAT LIKE A COW … GIRL
At the resort’s six different cafes, grills, cantinas, and restaurants, southwestern cuisine reigns supreme. You’ll love starting every day alongside the stunning canyon scenery at Kiva Café, where specialty coffee drinks and continental breakfasts fuel the adventures ahead. At night, head poolside for handcrafted cocktails and the chef’s signature tuna tostadas at The Cantina, or to The Paradox Grille for pool, shuffleboard, and a plate of famous Bourbon and Peach-glazed pork ribs. But whatever you do, don’t miss Duesey’s Diner: a vintage food trailer that proves even gourmet bison burgers and hand-blended malt shakes can be served up in a charming vintage setting.
4. STATE-OF-THE-ART RESTORATIVE SPA TREATMENTS
Hey – even the most rugged cowgirl needs a blooming cactus body scrub from time to time! At The Spa at Gateway Canyons, no bodily indulgence is spared. From massages, wraps, and scrubs, to hair treatments, hydrating masks, and luxury mani-pedis, you’ll never have to worry that the red Colorado dirt will stay in your hair (or under your nails!) any longer than you want it to.
5. SLEEP ADOBE STYLE
After a few nights at the dude ranch, you’ll be ready for the 20-million-dollar renovated luxury of Kayenta Lodge. With its picturesque abode architecture that blends seamlessly into the canyon countryside and simultaneously pays tribute to the history and traditions of the southwest, comfort meets beauty. Working fireplaces, high-speed WiFi, and spa-quality bath products make sure you’ll never want to leave – but the extraordinary vistas from your private outdoor balcony will always coax you back into nature for another adventure.
6. TAKE TO THE SKIES
With scenery like this all around, you won’t want to just stay on the ground! Take to the skies, to experience the majestic Colorado canyons and mountains as the birds do, with Gateway Canyons Air Tours. You will never forget the experience of climbing into a helicopter with state-of-the-art noise cancelling headphones and soaring over the snow-capped mountain peaks, red rock canyons and mesas, and rugged desert terrain of this beautiful corner of the world. All the while, you’ll hear magical stories from the traditional legends and lore of the American southwest. If that’s not enough, the helicopter can drop you off for some fly-fishing in the cool mountain springs of rural Colorado. It doesn’t get more off-the-beaten-track than that!
7. RUSTIC WINE LIFE
Last but not least, no retreat to this gorgeous corner of Colorado would be complete without a tour of its lesser-known – but criminally underrated – wine country. The Grand Valley area has more than 20 wineries, breweries, and even a distillery that makes its own local spirits! Expert chauffeurs ensure that you can enjoy the area in safety and comfort, without having to skip any samples of the delicious local wines and brews. Don’t miss the chance to try a scrumptious Colorado Merlot – by far the most popular local varietal, making up more than 20 percent of the state’s acreage. The rich spirit of the southwest is evident in every sip!