Madeline Hotel & Residences
Discover this luxurious homebase for alpine adventure in Telluride. Madeline Hotel & Residences is nestled in the heart of the San Juan range, with craggy vistas visible outside nearly every window. Ski-in/ski-out access allows anyone to hop on the slopes easily, and slide right into cozy, chic accommodations when they return.
European architecture and earthen-hued decor make this hotel feel like an authentic mountain chalet. Strap on your boots and goggles, step outside and take the lift right up to the powdery trails at Telluride Ski Resort. Or hop on the free gondola and ride down to the historic district (available year-round). There, you can spend the day shopping and exploring the storied past of the quintessential mining town. In warmer months, visitors venture out to traverse blossoming hiking trails and whitewater routes, or peep leaves and mountain bike — all with the breathtaking backdrop of the San Juan summits.
What makes it special?
As the only Forbes Travel Guide five-star resort in Telluride, the Madeline is the place to go when you’re looking for a luxurious getaway. Their full-service spa provides a tranquil retreat. Try alp-inspired treatments like the Signature Mountain Facial with cryotherapy, an Alpine Muscle Relief massage for post-ski recovery or even a bar with purified oxygen that helps visitors combat high-altitude symptoms. Finish off your day of relaxation with a warm dip in the steaming outdoor pool and hot tub.
The most Colorado thing about this place
The town of Telluride is one of the most “Colorado” places you can visit. And the Madeline’s easy access to adventures like skiing, paddleboarding and hiking keep you busy all day long. Plus, the hotel’s curated activities will make you feel like a true mountaineer — guided horseback riding or fishing, anyone?
Most unexpected amenity
Settle into the Timber Room, the on-site restaurant and bar that serves up elevated whiskey cocktails. Try the Pond Skim, made with brown-butter bourbon, Montenegro and burnt blood orange or opt for some bubbles from their extensive Champagne selection. Feeling famished from a long day of play? The 20-ounce Rocky Mountain Elk Loin with sweet huckleberry jus is just the ticket. Pick a spot by a cracking firepit on their year-round heated patio and watch the snowflakes fall while chatting with friends or family.
Our favorite traveler review
“We just experienced a wonderful week at the Madeline in Telluride! Everything was perfect, from our two-bedroom residence with a spectacular panoramic view of the mountains to enthusiastic service by the entire staff. We have always loved the pool and hot tubs surrounded by the mountains with firepits — simply the best poolside patio we have experienced. Dining at the Madeline is a gourmet treat, and the concierge provides exciting outdoor adventures.” — DrStevenCrain, Tripadvisor
Things to see and do nearby
Nearby, the San Juans are your playground. Telluride Ski Resort welcomes skiers and snowboarders in the winter and spring for pristine corduroy trails. Meanwhile, zipliners, bicyclists and tennis players find perfect conditions in the warmer months. Wander into town for eclectic shopping and art galleries, as well as highly anticipated annual events and festivals (don’t miss the Telluride Film Festival held annually over Labor Day weekend). Another must is the Cornerhouse Grille, where you can sit outside for fried-chicken sliders with crisp pickles and crystal-clear peak views. See sips at Telluride breweries and bars, too, like The Ride Lounge & Tavern, where you can stay awhile and catch live music and karaoke.
Photos courtesy of the Madeline Hotel & Residences.