Aspen was a lot of fun, but I was ready for a bit more rest
and relaxation. It was about to come my
way on my very first trip to Telluride, Colorado.
Lisa and I took the scenic drive late morning to Mountain
Village, the area we were staying in at the Lumiere Telluride. I had heard
nothing but good things about this boutique property and I was more than ready
to check it out.
Lumiere Telluride is a hideaway among the ski resorts. With
only 11 rooms (there are also 18 residences), its intimate yet includes all
that you would need, such as a restaurant; bar; three outdoor soaking pools; a Jacuzzi
and sauna; and spa. The staff is also knowledgeable and helpful when it comes
to anything you might need in Telluride.
We settled into our two bedroom suite, which had a spacious
living room, a kitchen and perfect views from the balcony, and kicked back a
bit. (Isn’t that what you are supposed to do in the Colorado Mountains?)
Dinner was set up with Emily from the Telluride Tourism
Board. We were meeting downtown at Cosmopolitan Restaurant and when we asked
how to get there, I was in for quite a surprise at the answer. It seems that in
Telluride you get around by Gondola – even when you aren’t skiing.
We took the short walk from the Lumiere to the Gondola
Station and hopped aboard. I have to admit I was a bit nervous at first, but
Lisa and I grew calm quickly when we were blown away with the views. It was
certainly better than driving (and walking up and down mountains isn’t an
option).
When the Gondola arrived downtown, we were just a block away
from the restaurant. Emily was waiting to meet us at this popular restaurant,
known for its seasonal menus. I started with The Classic Cosmo, made with
Telluride Vodka, Cointreau and cranberry juice, while Lisa had a local beer.
The menu was very interesting and quite international. I
began with the Heirloom Tomato with goat cheese burrata and a well-matched
balsamic dressing. Lisa chose the goat cheese salad with fresh oranges and was
quite happy with it. We also nibbled on freshly baked bread, something the
restaurant does daily.
For dinner, the Grilled Pork Tenderloin with a port
reduction was very good, but the accompanying macaroni and cheese was just incredible.
Lisa had the Kobe Beef and said it was excellent, melting right in her mouth.
Emily told us a bit about Telluride, including popular
events like the Bluegrass Festival and Telluride Food & Wine. She also
explained how people don’t realize there is year round activity here, which I
have to admit I was guilty of not knowing too.
We finished the meal with dessert. For Lisa, it was a dish
of triple chocolate, Kahlua and caramel sorbets. I went for the Lingonberry Pie
and it was one of the best pies I’ve ever had.
We thought about hitting a bar downtown, but decided to take the Gondola
back to the hotel instead.
When we got back to the suite we briefly extended the night
a bit with a glass of wine in the hot tub on our deck. It was a beautiful night
and the water was just perfect. I
settled into my bedroom for a good night’s sleep and a full relaxing day in
Telluride ahead.
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