Dunton Hot Springs - A Little Piece of Heaven on Earth

Dunton Hot Springs - A Little Piece of Heaven on Earth
Originally Dunton Hot Springs was established over the mountain from Telluride as a mining town in 1885 and Emma mine was the biggest producer. By 1918 it had become a Ghost town and since then has exchanged hands for purposes including a cattle ranch, dude ranch as well as a biker hang out. In 1994 it was bought by it's current owners who spent a number of years meticulously restoring Dunton as a labor of love working with local artisans, before opening it's doors as one of the most exceptional and luxurious resorts and spas you can visit today. (insiders tip - there is a wonderful map hung up in the Saloon which shows the before and after which is staggering to see)!

The best and most surprising part is that this remote hideaway is easy to get to through Denver airport, followed by a quick Great Lakes flight into Cortez or Telluride. Other nearby airports include Montrose and Durango. Alternatively you can choose to make it part of a wonderful road trip down through the Rockies of Colorado or up through the desert lands of Utah or New Mexico. Dunton Hot Springs is located along a dirt road off of Hwy 145 (4x4 strongly recommended) and is nestled between two extraordinary Alpine Valleys and close to the foot of two fourteen thousand foot peaks Mt. Wilson & El Diente. Both are located in the Lizard Head Wilderness in Dolores County. El Diente is one of the more dramatic peaks in Colorado in terms of local relief and steepness. As a result, it is one of the most challenging climbs among Colorado's fourteeners.

Dunton Hot Springs

Upon entering Dunton Hot Springs you cross over Dolores River and find yourself at the heart of the property which all revolves around the original Saloon & Dance Hall. There are 12 unique hand-hewn log cabins, three all-natural hot springs, a bathhouse with indoor hot spring, library, outdoor chapel, waterfall, Yoga studio, small gym with free weights and a couple of cardio machines, and nine miles of private waters plus an expansive hiking trail network suitable for all levels.

Dunton is the perfect getaway for couples, families and friends alike. A year round resort offering an abundance of outdoor pursuits to enjoy during every season. During winter months Dunton partners with Telluride Adventures to provide custom guided activities including ice climbing, snow-showing, back country skiing and mountaineering. Helitrax also provides Heli-Skiing in the highest elevations flown in North America picking up guests and returning by helicopter directly from the resort.

Dunton Hot Springs

All year round there is the opportunity to take a short drive to explore the dessert nearby taking a guided horseback ride through McElmo Canyon and Canyon of the Ancients, followed by lunch and a wine tasting at Sutcliffe Vineyards, home to Duntons own winery and working farm.

During spring, summer & fall there is guided Fly Fishing with Telluride Outside along Dunton's nine miles of private waters, as well as horseback riding, hiking and rock climbing.

Dunton provides every opportunity for the avid outdoorsman and for those wishing to simply relax and unwind there is a full spa by appointment only, the beautiful library, Yoga studio, incredible all-natural indoor and outdoor hot springs, indoor games, a home cinema in the Dance Hall and gentle hiking trails. These also make for the perfect relaxation after a day of activity exploring the surrounding mountains.

The food at Dunton Hot Springs is all served family style around the wood burning fire of the Saloon or in the Dance Hall. The chef prepares the menu daily in the open planned kitchen inside the Saloon based on local seasonal ingredients, some from Dunton's own farm and Sutcliffe vineyard, and caters for all dietary needs. There is no request to tall! The chef welcomes you to engage and sit up at the wooden counter top whenever you want to.

Dunton Hot Springs

The entire team at Dunton treats you like family from the moment you arrive and nothing is a problem, everything is a pleasure. It is truly like being home away from home and you feel genuinely nurtured and cared for.

There is a fully stocked bar inside the Saloon, extensive wine cellar and all of Sutcliffe's locally produced wine to satisfy every taste bud. (insiders tip - be sure to try the infamous George Dickel Whisky which has become the customary drink)!

The other added bliss is that you don't have to worry about grabbing your wallet and keys every time you wish to buy a drink, buy a memento of your stay or indulge in one of the many Spa treatments available! Dunton's rates include all delicious meals daily, all nonalcoholic drinks and unlimited use of the hot springs, yoga studio, west fork gym and library. Throughout your stay any guided activities, spa treatments or liquor will be added to your bill and taken care of on departure.

Dunton Hot Springs can also be rented out exclusively for a wonderful wedding, a corporate retreat, a family reunion or friends adventure get together. Imagine having your very own authentic Ghost Town cared for by a team of professionals committed to excellence.

One thing is absolutely certain -- once you have discovered Dunton Hot Springs you will never want to leave this little piece of heaven on earth!

Hotel Profile: Dunton Hot Springs

Dunton Hot Springs
Tel: 970-882-4800
Email: info@duntonhotsprings.com
Website: www.duntonhotsprings.com