Welcome to Colorado
Welcome to Colorado
$4094
Welcome to Colorado
6 Days Starting and ending in Denver, United States
Visiting: Rocky Mountain National Park, Aspen, Palisade, Durango, Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado Springs
Tour operator:
Tour code:
DCOLM26
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Colorado with our "Welcome to Colorado" tour. This adventure takes you from the majestic Rocky Mountain National Park to the awe-inspiring Great Sand Dunes National Park. Experience the thrill of scenic drives along the Million Dollar Highway and Rim Rock Drive, and enjoy iconic train rides on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad. Connect with locals at the Maison La Belle Vie Winery for an exclusive evening of wine tasting and a three-course dinner. Stay at the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, and explore the stunning Garden of the Gods. With expert guides, cherry-picked accommodations, and a blend of cultural and natural wonders, this tour promises an enriching exploration of Colorado's diverse beauty.
Must-see Highlights
- Visit Rocky Mountain, Mesa Verde, Great Sand Dunes National Parks, Colorado National Monument, Garden of the Gods
- Scenic Drive along Million Dollar Highway, Rim Rock Drive, Peak to Peak Highway
- Iconic Train The Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, & Pikes Peak Cog Railway
- View Cliff Palace dwelling at Mesa Verde National Park
- Durango: After some free time in Silverton to get lunch, browse the town and stop at the Visitor Center, take a trip back in time aboard the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad as this coal-fired, steam-powered train chugs along rails that were originally laid at the end of the 19th century, winding through a wilderness which would be inaccessible by car.
Be My Guest
Palisade: This evening, 'Connect With Locals,' at Maison La Belle Vie Winery , as you meet the owners for an exclusive evening, starting with a tour of the winery and tasting the flavors of their lovingly blended estate-grown reds. Then sit down for a three-course dinner paired with wines adjacent the 4.5 acre vineyard and al fresco under the Colorado Sky!
Trafalgar Difference
Durango: Stay at The Strater Hotel, adorned with beautiful handcrafted woodwork, housing the largest collection of American Victorian walnut antiques. It's Durango's Historic Landmark Hotel, showcasing stories of the old west and mining times.
Itinerary
Day 1: Traverse The Rocky Mountains
Location: Rocky Mountain National Park
Accommodation: Embassy Suites
Accommodation Name: Embassy Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast
The Rocky Mountains may seem larger than life, but your journey to Rocky Mountain National Park will see you come face to face with this extraordinary mountain landscape which snakes along western North America. Drive along the Trail Ridge Road, a designated national scenic byway and the highest continuous paved highway in America. Spend some time at lunch on your own in Estes Park, a small western town situated at the foothills of Rocky Mountain National Park. This evening you will have free time to explore Boulder on your own.
Day 2: Admire Aspen
Location: Aspen
Accommodation: Colorado
Accommodation Name: Colorado
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Head up Colorado's Rocky Mountains to Aspen, known for its high-end boutiques, bars and restaurants. Join your Travel Director for a walk through town. Then, Dive Into Culture as you are taken by 4WD jeeps from Aspen up Snowmass Mountain for an exciting wilderness excursion. As you climb Snowmass, you will venture off road, through Aspen groves, past small waterfalls and through open meadows overlooking amazing views of the surrounding valleys. Your Local Experts will explain the history and geology of the area, including how ice age mammal bones, including Saber-toothed Tigers and Woolly Mammoths were found in the reservoir below. Arrive at the historic Burlingmane Cabin, and try your hand at horseshoes, corn hole, or relax and admire the breath-taking views of the mountain ranges while the staff tends to all your needs. Enjoy a delicious lunch hot off the grill with wine and beer, a campfire, live music, and s'mores. Back in Glenwood Springs, the rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Perhaps, visit the renowned Glenwood Hot Springs, the world's largest mineral hot springs pool.
Day 3: Savour The Flavours Of Colorado Connect With Locals
Location: Palisade
Accommodation: Wine Country Inn
Accommodation Name: Wine Country Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Head for Palisade, known as the 'Peach and Wine Capital of Colorado,' perfectly nestled along the Colorado River. Stop at Clark Family Orchards (seasonal) and Connect with Locals as you meet with Clark family members and learn about the history of this farming family. Enjoy a horse-drawn carriage tour of the orchards before sampling fresh in-season produce. You’ll have the chance to bring home some unique salsas, jams and preserves, pickled veggies, grilling sauces and salad dressings. After, we head on to Colorado National Monument, preserving one of the grandest landscapes of the American West. But this treasure is much more than a monument. Towering monoliths exist within a vast plateau and canyon panorama. Experience sheer-walled, red rock canyons along the twists and turns of Rim Rock Drive, where you may spy bighorn sheep and soaring eagles. This evening, stay in the heart of wine country and enjoy a Be My Guest experience dinner at the Maison La Belle Vie Winery. You will be hosted by the owner for an exclusive evening, starting with a tour of the winery and tasting the flavors of their lovingly blended estate-grown reds. Then sit down for a 3-course dinner paired with wines adjacent the 4.5 acre vineyard and al fresco under the Colorado Sky!
Day 4: Journey Through The Rustic Rockies Stays With Stories
Location: Durango
Accommodation: Strater Hotel
Accommodation Name: Strater Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Head up the Western Slopes along the San Juan Skyway Scenic Byway and stop in the must-see town of Ouray, nestled in some of the most rugged and towering peaks of the Rockies, and often referred to as the "Switzerland of America.” From Ouray, ride along the famous "Million Dollar Highway," a designated All-American Byway and one of the state’s most scenic drives with some of Colorado’s most spectacular views as it spirals over Coal Bank Summit, Molas Pass, and Red Mountain Pass. Arrive in the mining town of Silverton, once a bawdy mining town, to board the Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad to Durango. Take a trip back in time as this coal-fired, steam-powered train chugs along rails that were originally laid at the end of the 19th century, winding through a wilderness which would be inaccessible by car. This evening, you'll enjoy a night at The Strater Hotel, one of the West’s first iconic hotels and the centerpiece of Durango, your Stays with Story.
Day 5: Discover The Great Sand Dunes
Location: Great Sand Dunes National Park
Accommodation: Hilton Garden Inn
Accommodation Name: Hilton Garden Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today's highlight is the Great Sand Dunes National Park & Preserve, a sandbox of epic proportions- 101 square kilometres with the tallest dune towering 229 meters high, making it the largest sand dune in North America. First up, set the scene for the adventure ahead with a start at the excellent Visitor Centre with a short film and various exhibits. Your Travel Director will then take you to the best place for picture taking from the bottom of High Dune, a towering sand dune about 198 meters from base to top. Then learn about this unique geographical phenomenon before heading for Colorado Springs.
Day 6: Roam The Garden Of The Gods
Location: Colorado Springs
Meals Included: Breakfast
Our journey ends today as we say a fond farewell to new friends and depart Colorado Springs for Denver, but not before one last stop at yet another natural wonder of Colorado at the spectacular Garden of the Gods, a registered National Natural Landmark boasting dramatic vistas and towering, jagged red-rock formations. After some free time, you will be joined by a Garden of the Gods Local Specialist for a guided scenic loop drive around the central Garden zone and spurs out to Ridge Road and Balanced Rock for views of North and South Gateway Rocks, Gray Rock, Montezuma Tower, Scotsman Picnic Area, High Point, Siamese Twins, Steamboat Rock, and Balanced Rock where we’ll say our goodbyes to the group. After a final big morning, transfer to Denver International Airport.
What's Included
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An expert Travel Director and professional Driver
An expert Travel Director and professional Driver are included in the tour.
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Cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted
Accommodation in cherry-picked hotels, all tried and trusted, is included.
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All porterage and restaurant gratuities
All porterage and restaurant gratuities are included in the tour.
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All hotel tips, charges and local taxes
All hotel tips, charges, and local taxes are included.
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Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals
Breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals are included.
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Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras
Must-see sightseeing and surprise extras are included in the tour.
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Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing
Audio headsets for flexible sightseeing are included.
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All transport and transfers shown
All transport and transfers shown in the itinerary are included.
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Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys)
Luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries or alternative transportation (such as rail journeys) is included.
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Optional Experiences and free time
Optional experiences and free time are part of the tour.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.
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Flights
Flights to and from the tour start and end locations are not included.
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Visa fees
Visa fees, if applicable, are not included in the tour.
Dining Summary
- 6 Breakfast (B)
- 1 Lunch (L)
- 1 Dinner (D)
Dive Into Culture
- Aspen: Wind along country roads passing elk habitat and views of the Elk Mountain Range as you journey out of Aspen and up Snowmass Mountain. As you climb, you'll venture off road, past small waterfalls and through open meadows, and aspen groves. When you reach Coney Glade Overlook you'll be able to take in the amazing views as your local experts will explain the history and geology of the area.
Mode of Transport
Travel in luxury with a fully air-conditioned coach equipped with Wi-Fi, and enjoy scenic rail journeys on iconic trains like the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad.
Accommodation
Experience a variety of accommodations including the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, the Embassy Suites, and the Wine Country Inn, each offering unique charm and comfort throughout your Colorado adventure.
Check out our Q&As
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What unique experiences are included in the tour?
The tour includes a ride on the Durango and Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, a visit to the historic Burlingmane Cabin with activities like horseshoes and corn hole, and a Be My Guest experience at Maison La Belle Vie Winery with a tour and wine tasting.
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What kind of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will stay at cherry-picked hotels, including the historic Strater Hotel in Durango, which is known for its American Victorian walnut antiques and stories of the old west.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes breakfast daily and up to half of your evening meals. There is also a lunch included during the wilderness excursion in Aspen and a three-course dinner at Maison La Belle Vie Winery.
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What kind of transportation is provided during the tour?
The tour provides a luxury air-conditioned coach with Wi-Fi in most countries, and includes all transport and transfers shown in the itinerary. There are also unique transportation experiences such as the 4WD jeep excursion in Aspen.
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What activities are available at the Great Sand Dunes National Park?
At the Great Sand Dunes National Park, you will visit the Visitor Centre to watch a short film and view exhibits, and then your Travel Director will take you to the best place for picture taking from the bottom of High Dune.
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What can I expect from the visit to the Garden of the Gods?
During the visit to the Garden of the Gods, you will have free time to explore and then join a Local Specialist for a guided scenic loop drive around the central Garden zone, with views of various rock formations such as Balanced Rock and North and South Gateway Rocks.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
The beauty of taking a guided holiday with us is that you’ll have the opportunity to meet and travel with people from all over the globe.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Vaccination against Covid-19 is not mandatory to travel with Trafalgar. However, we strongly recommend that guests are vaccinated before travelling. Please note that airlines and/or other authorities may have different requirements. It is the guest's responsibility to comply with these requirements at all times.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1947
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Trafalgar is a founding partner of the TreadRight Foundation, a not-for-profit organisation established in 2008. So far, the charity has donated more than US$2 million to help underprivileged communities and support sustainable tourism around the world.
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
Trafalgar requires a minimum deposit of 350 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 90 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of trafalgar charges.
Up to 91 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 90 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 29 days before tour starts: Forfeit 80% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
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