Our Valentine? Why, it’s Telluride, of course. With love in the air this February, here are some of the things we just adore about this very special place.

The Mountain

Conde Nast Travelers’ readers have again voted Telluride the number one ski resort in North America, and by the end of your first run, you’ll see why this mountain is so loved. There is something for everyone-from refined groomed runs, to challenging moguls and incredible hike-to terrain-the variety makes skiers and riders of all ability levels happy. Combine the jaw dropping views, open slopes, no lift lines with superb on-mountain dining and a friendly, laid-back vibe, and you have a truly awesome experience. 

Off Mountain Adventures

OK, so you came for the skiing, but don’t leave without a day off the mountain for an adventure you’ll always remember. Hop on a snowmobile and explore the relics of Telluride’s mining days. Grab a local guide and a pair of snowshoes to experience mountain terrain in a different way. Or fat tire bike or Nordic ski along the snow-clad Valley Floor to see if you can spot an elk or lynx. All are sure-fire memory makers.

Good Eats

The thing about dining in Telluride is that it will be an experience no matter your taste or your budget. Looking for fine dining? Try 221 South Oak, La Marmotte, the Cosmopolitan or the New Sheridan Chop House for exquisite food prepared by noteworthy chefs. Want authentic? Check out the southern barbecue at Oak, Italian fare at Rustico or La Piazza del Villaggio, or Mediterranean offerings at the Village Table. How about something truly unique? There’s Telluride Sleighs and Wagons, which offers a starlit sleigh ride followed by fine dining in a charming, heated tent. In Telluride, even the local pizzeria and burger joint are award winners.

Serious Eye Candy 

Be prepared for Telluride to take your breath away. The town and ski resort sit among the highest concentration of 13,000- and 14,000-foot peaks in North America, with stunning vistas in all directions. Couple this with the bluebird days for which Colorado is famous and the result is truly spectacular and most certainly unforgettable.

Stroll Back in Time

A National Historic Landmark District, Telluride isn’t a cookie-cutter resort town. It has history. Serious history. Established in 1878, Telluride was first a mining town that drew adventurers seeking to strike it rich in the gold and silver mines that dotted the slopes and basins above the town. It also attracted its share of outlaws – Butch Cassidy robbed his first bank here. This colorful, remarkable history has been carefully preserved and can be experienced with a visit to the Telluride Historical Museum, a snowmobile ride to the Alta Lakes ghost town or a walking tour.