Guide:
Regions & Cities:
Directory
Overview
Best known of the Rocky Mountain states, Colorado is essentially
an outdoor paradise and owes its recognition to the majestic
mountains that create spectacular scenery, panoramic vistas and an
abundance of recreational possibilities. For many, nature forms the
essence of Colorado.
The Rocky Mountains is a year-round destination that boasts
national parks and forests, canyons, lakes, rivers and peaks that
provide opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, fishing and
horse riding. Numerous winter resorts nestled in the mountains
offer unrivalled skiing and snowboarding amid beautiful alpine
scenery. The resort of Vail is considered to be one of the top ski
destinations in the Americas and is the most popular, while Aspen
is best known for its celebrities and glamorous après-ski
scene.
The state capital, Denver, is the obvious starting point for a
vacation and is the gateway to the mountains, ski resorts and
spectacular Rocky Mountain National Park to the north. Home to many
museums, parks, gardens and a lively downtown area, the city offers
the comfort and culture of bigger cities like Los Angeles or New
York, but at a more relaxed pace. Pikes Peak looms over the popular
city of Colorado Springs, famous for its breathtaking views that
was the inspiration for the lyrics of ‘America the
Beautiful’ by Katherine Lee Bates. Just outside the city are
the fantastic red sandstone formations of the Garden of the
Gods.
The western part of the state comprises beautiful remote desert
canyons and the archaeological remnants of the cliff cities left by
an ancient civilisation at Mesa Verde National Park, a stark
contrast to the alpine wonders that attract most visitors to
Colorado.
