Omayra Acevedo, Estes Park. Stepping foot into this town always makes me feel like I’m as close to heaven as one can get. Between the quintessential Colorado mountain town feel, Rocky Mountain National Park, shops, hotels, events and restaurants, it is undeniably my favorite place in Colorado thus far. I invite you now to join me on an expedition to the Historic Stanley Hotel.

As you approach the hotel from any direction, you are sure to notice how perfectly it rests against the majesty of the Rocky Mountains. You are convinced that it was meant to be and that the mountains wouldn’t be the same without it there and vice versa. The red roof and the milky exterior only sets you up for what you actually get to witness on the inside or behind the hotel.

The wooden interior combined with historic artifacts, subtle rustic décor, fireplaces and a view to die for from every angle, create the perfect setting to truly make you feel like you’ve traveled further than you actually have.

When you find the posterior of the hotel, you will be captivated by the sound that greets you as you take a short stroll towards small, but beautiful falls. Take a moment here to soak in where you are and the history that surrounds you. I like sitting as close to the falls as I can, closing my eyes and taking a very slow and deep inhale. I find it invigorating.

To spend any time at The Stanley Hotel is an easy way to experience something you won’t find anywhere else. Yes, mostly because it is Colorado Pride at its best, but also because The Stanley Hotel holds itself to a higher standard and they truly live by their word. There’s plenty to do just at the hotel. Whether you are in search of adventure or pure relaxation. This is where you can find it.

Since 1903, The Stanley Hotel has played a huge part in the success of the town of Estes Park; as well as impacted the history of Colorado. The hotel has been inspiring people from all walks of life. From brides and grooms to authors, film-makers, artists and even journalists. With a rich history, ghost tours, spa packages, a whiskey bar, a gift shop, a quaint mountain town walking distance from your door and a restaurant cascading with mouth-watering options, there’s no reason you shouldn’t experience a day or a weekend at the Stanley Hotel.

(Originally published in the February 28, 2019, print edition of The Mountain-Ear.)