The Dyer Inn
The Dyer Inn is steps away from downtown Castle Rock, where golf courses, hiking trails, coffee shops, antique stores and locally owned restaurants abound. Located within an hour’s drive of both Denver and Colorado Springs, this renowned spot is the perfect jumping-off point for a quintessential Colorado getaway.
In 1875, Samuel Dyer, one of Colorado’s founders, built Castle Rock’s first homestead property. Over the years, it has been extensively renovated to create a cozy enclave for those visiting Castle Rock and the surrounding area. Nestled on a surprisingly lush half-acre property, the charming, spacious inn was once Samuel’s barn. Today, it boasts a classic farmhouse style — à la Chip and Joanna Gaines — as well as amenities found at most traditional vacation rentals, like a fully equipped kitchen and washer-dryer combo.
What makes it special?
If these walls could talk …
The Dyer Inn is flanked in history, from its storied acreage to the original wood ceilings in every room. You’ll feel transported to the 1870s as soon as you drive through the property’s private gate.
The most Colorado thing about this place
The Dyer Inn is truly a reflection of Colorado’s unique and vibrant past, from its beginning as a gold miner’s dream in the late 1800s to the modern-day melting pot it’s become. The inn’s updated yet rustic decor and surrounding property magically showcase both where we’ve been and where we’re going.
Coolest amenity
A countryside escape, the inn boasts an expansive green space complete with an iron pergola, patio seating and gas grill. It’s an idyllic setup for sipping your morning coffee or enjoying an evening barbecue with a glass of Colorado wine in hand.
Quirkiest thing to expect
Can you think of anything more farm-fresh than hearing the “cluck, cluck” of friendly chickens in the morning? Another building that’s withstood the test of time is Samuel Dyer’s hen house. Here, guests can collect eggs to cook for breakfast or brunch every day.
Our favorite traveler review
“Dyer Inn is truly an oasis with so much attention to detail. It’s relaxing, serene and cozy. I don’t think I have ever wanted to actually spend so much time in an airbnb, but between the beautiful kitchen, steam shower and comfy sunlit living room, it makes you want to! I loved being able to walk into town for coffee, breakfast and shopping. We will definitely be back!” — Mary, airbnb
Things to see & do nearby
Golf courses, extensive hiking trails, ziplines and some of the best discount shopping in the state — there are plenty of things to do within a five- to 10-minute drive of The Dyer Inn. Castle Rock’s Castlewood Canyon State Park offers trails of varying lengths, ranging from .5 to 4 miles, for hikers and climbers of all skill levels. Along the trails, hikers can picnic while overlooking the canyon, explore the ruins of the famed Castlewood Canyon Dam and get up-close to rushing waterfalls.
For those that want an aerial view of the town, add The EDGE Ziplines & Adventures’ 2 miles of zipline to your itinerary. A haven for golfers, the city is also home to seven scenic and challenging courses, some of which were designed by the sport’s most notable players, like Jack Nicholas and Pete Dye.
If downtown exploration is more your thing, then Castle Rock’s wealth of local shops and 100-plus name-brand stores are sure to please. And, if you find yourself in the area the weekend after Labor Day, plan to attend the Castle Rock Artfest, an international fine-arts show featuring more than 90 artists, cultural exhibits and more.
Pro tip: Don’t forget to add in a day trip (or two) to bustling Denver and Colorado Springs, both of which are known for innovative eateries, world-class breweries, notable landmarks, countless hiking and biking trails, and much more.
Photos courtesy of airbnb
