If you’re seeking a legendary destination full of beautiful hiking trails, world-class skiing, and jaw-dropping waterfalls, Telluride should be at the top of your list. A historic mining town in Colorado, Telluride is situated at 8750 feet above sea level. Specifically, it sits in a majestic box canyon surrounded by 14000-foot peaks.
While Telluride is small enough to walk around in under half an hour, there’s so much to see and do. Some activities are more accessible than others, so it’s important to stay somewhere that suits your travel needs.
To help you out, we’ve created this guide on where to stay in Telluride. We’ve picked something for every travel style and budget, and even included our top accommodation picks in each area. That way, you can spend less time researching and more time bulking out your itinerary!
Where to Stay in Telluride
There are some awesome places to stay in Telluride, Colorado. If you’re in a hurry or not looking for anywhere specific, check out our top three accommodation recommendations.
Hotel Columbia | Best Hotel in Telluride
This place is ideal if you want all the top attractions on your doorstep. Situated in the dynamic city center, you’ll be close to the best restaurants, spas, and boutiques in the area.
The Peaks Resort & Spa | Best Ski Resort in Telluride
Yearn to live the high life and be treated like royalty? This resort, which features an on-site spa, huge indoor/outdoor pool, and a helicopter for heli-skiing. If you want to amp up your skiing holiday, this is the place to do it.
Double Diamond Ski-In/Ski-Out Chalet | Best Apartments in Telluride
Craving a ski holiday without the hassle of trudging across town with your equipment? At these stylish apartments, you can practically ski right up to your accommodation. The apartments feature a fireplace and balcony, creating a cozy space to relax in.
If you are not a budget, don’t forget to check out hostels in Telluride too!
Gondola District
While Telluride isn’t the hardest town to get around (it only spans fifteen blocks at its longest), nobody can argue that the Gondola District isn’t the heart of the city. Making up the neighborhood immediately surrounding Telluride’s Gondola Station, you’ll be among great company by staying in this lively quarter.
Telluride West End
Just a stone’s throw away from Telluride’s central Gondola District is Telluride West End, an area packed with all the chalets, bed and breakfasts, and ski lodges that a large group could ask for. For families who would prefer to stay in the privacy of their own suites away from other groups, this slice of Telluride should be right up your alley.
Mountain Village Core
Telluride’s sister town, Mountain Village, lies just on the other side of the box canyon, less than a fifteen-minute gondola ride away from the other town’s center. At 9450 feet above sea level, the new town was built in response to the growing demands for accommodation in the popular ski area.
Telluride is made up of two towns: Telluride, a mining town dating back to the Gold Rush, and the new, luxurious Mountain Village. No matter which part you choose to stay in, the natural beauty of the canyon is breathtaking. Telluride sits among some of the most captivating peaks in Colorado and is full of incredible hiking trails.
The historic Telluride should be considered the heart of the area. Measuring only eight blocks across and fifteen blocks long, Telluride is home to around 2,300 inhabitants. What this mountain town lacks in size, however, it more than makes up for in charm. It’s the best place to stay if you want a vibrant, small-town feel while never straying too far from the modern amenities.
The Gondola District is the vibrant core of Telluride. The area surrounds the Gondola Station, giving visitors quick access to the Mountain Village and ski slopes. It’s full of lively hotels, bars, and restaurants, and even offers free public transport! This makes it the best place to stay if you’re visiting Telluride for the first time. The area hosts plenty of festivals in summer, so you’ll be entertained no matter when you visit.
If you’re traveling with family or a large group, check out Telluride West End. It’s just a stone’s throw away from the Gondola District and is full of chalets and B&Bs. It’s also ideal for avid hikers, providing access to some of the best hikes in Colorado.
Finally, high-rollers should consider staying in Mountain Village. You’ll find the best all-inclusive resorts here, as well as direct access to the ski slopes. Telluride isn’t the most budget-friendly, so if you’re traveling on a budget, it’s best to avoid this area and stick to the town center.
Telluride’s Top 3 Areas to Stay in
Now, let’s take a look at the best places to stay in Telluride in more detail. The town is easily walkable on foot, but each area is better suited to a different travel-style. We’ve included our favourite accommodation and activity picks in each, so you’ll know exactly what you’re getting.
1 .Gondola District – Best Place to Stay in Telluride for Your First Time
While Telluride is pretty compact, nobody can argue that the Gondola District isn’t the heart of the city. Making up the neighborhood immediately surrounding Telluride’s Gondola Station, you’ll be among some great company by staying in this lively quarter. With so much going on, it’s also one of the best places to stay in Telluride in summer.
The station not only provides free public transportation to all travelers but also connects Telluride to Mountain Village. You’ll also find some of the trendiest restaurants right by Gondola Plaza, as well as top bars. So, if you want a mix of sightseeing and socializing, the Gondola District is for you.
Hotel Columbia | Best Suites in the Gondola District
This scenic boutique hotel offers a complimentary buffet breakfast as well as a view of Telluride Ski Mountain and the San Miguel River. Their large suites also tend to come equipped with a fully-functioning fireplace and kitchenette, the perfect accommodation for first-time visitors to Telluride. Try out their on-site bar/restaurant, or book a massage at a lavish spa to wind down at the end of the day.
New Sheridan Hotel | Best Budget Hotel in the Gondola District
Situated two blocks from Telluride Ski Resort, New Sheridan Hotel is perfect for those travelling the USA on a budget. It’s a bargain hunter’s paradise, offering grandiosity in each of their refined suites at practical steals. Head up to their rooftop bar to get a panoramic view of the town or grab a table at their on-site steak restaurant.
Camel’s Garden Hotel | Best Hotel in the Gondola District
You can’t get more central than Camel’s Garden Hotel, located right next to Gondola Plaza. This resort is the place to be for couples or solo travelers looking to kick back in absolute opulence. The hotel boasts rooms with sitting areas, fireplaces, and mountain-view balconies. There’s also a restaurant and full-service spa on-site.
Things to See and Do in the Gondola District:
- Walk around Telluride’s historic center
- Visit Telluride Historical Museum
- Take the gondola to Mountain Village
- Rent a bike at Pedal Den
- Buy some wine in at Telluride Bottle Works
- Grab a cup of joe at Ghost Town Coffee
- Hike over to Bridal Veils Falls
- Ride up Pandora ski lift
- Go shopping down Colorado Avenue
- Buy a custom skateboard at The Drop Boardshop and Printlab
- Walk along the San Miguel River
- Go skiing at Telluride Ski Resort
- Go rock climbing in the mountains
- Order a batch of cookies from The Butcher & the Baker
- Put on your hiking boots and head up Bear Creek Falls Trailhead
- Have a picnic at Telluride Town Park
- Go sledding on Firecracker Hill
- Go ice-skating at Hanley Indoor Ice Rink
- Find some bargains at Telluride Thrift Shop
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View on Osprey View on REI2. Telluride West End – Where to Stay in Telluride for Families or Large Groups
Just a stone’s throw away from Telluride’s central Gondola District is Telluride West End, an area packed with all the chalets, bed and breakfasts, and ski lodges. For families who would prefer to stay in the privacy of their own suites, this slice of Telluride should be right up your alley. Suites in this part of town often feature comfy furnishings with fully-equipped kitchens, fireplaces, and outstanding views of the mountains.
Considering Telluride’s compact size, the area is also well-connected to all the major sights you could wish to see. Telluride Ski Resort is easily within reach on foot, along with some of the best hiking trails and food establishments in town. If that’s not enough, many of Telluride’s festivals are hosted here. These are a must if you’re looking for things to do in Colorado during the summer!
Double Diamond Ski-In/Ski-Out Chalet | Best Chalet in Telluride West End
This place is perfect if you’re deciding where to stay in Telluride for skiing. Each chic two-bedroom apartment is fitted with a fireplace, seating area, mountain-view balcony, and fully-equipped kitchen. With Coonskin lift only 100 meters away and the Gondola Station 700 meters away, you’ll be in the heart of the action.
The Hotel Telluride | Best Boutique Hotel in Telluride West End
Nestled at the base of the San Juan Mountains, this family-friendly boutique hotel boasts extravagant suites with built-in fireplaces and kitchenettes. Enjoy their on-site restaurant and bar, hot tub, or sun terrace to make the most of your stay in this prestigious hotel.
Bachman Village by Alpine Lodging Telluride | Best Suites in Telluride West End
If you’re looking for enough space for a minivan full of extended family or friends, the suites at Bachman Village can’t be beaten. Each suite comes stocked with a fireplace, a large sitting area with a flat-screen TV, a fully-equipped kitchen. Up to 12 guests can stay in one suite, making them ideal for family vacations.
Things to See and Do in Telluride West End:
- Go skiing at Telluride Ski Resort
- Catch the gondola over to Mountain Village
- Watch a show at Sheridan Opera House
- Stroll along the San Miguel River
- Check out the Telluride Mushroom Festival
- Get wild at the Telluride Fire Festival
- Try some Thai food at Siam
- Have a romantic dinner at the Tunnel
- Pay your respects at Judy Long Memorial Park
- Ride up Coonskin Ski Lift
- Brush up on your history at Telluride Historical Museum
- Go up to San Sophia overlook for a panoramic view
- Enjoy a day at Telluride Town Park
- Try hiking up Bear Creek Trail
- Trek over to Royer Gulch Park
- Go hunt some waterfalls in San Juan National Forest
3. Mountain Village Core – Best Area in Telluride for High-Rollers
Mountain Village lies on the other side of the box canyon, less than a fifteen-minute gondola ride away from Telluride’s center. At 9450 feet above sea level, the new town was built in response to the growing demands for accommodation in the popular ski area.
In comparison to Telluride’s long history as a former mining town, Mountain Village is a purpose-built resort paradise. The care and attention to detail put into its layout can be seen in the European-influenced architecture styles of its luxury hotels, swanky lodges, and sweeping mountain estates. Mountain Village is also pedestrian-friendly with several paths only accessible on foot.
The Peaks Resort & Spa | Best Resort in Mountain Village
Arguably the best ski-in/ski-out resort in the Telluride area, this resort is where to stay when you never want to go far from the lap of luxury. It features a full-service spa, indoor/outdoor connecting pool, world-class restaurant, and on-site coffee and pastry shops. There’s even a helicopter for heli-skiing, which isn’t for the faint-hearted!
Mountain Lodge | Most Romantic Resort in Mountain Village
For lovers prepared to splurge a little more, Mountain Lodge is the ideal couples’ retreat. The resort offers studio and two-bedroom apartments, which come equipped with comfy seating areas, fireplaces, and fully-stocked kitchens. Go for a swim in their heated outdoor pool, enjoy a soak in their hot tub, or relax in the steam room for a proper escape.
Madeline Resort & Residences, Auberge Resort Collections | Best Luxury Resort in Mountain Village
Travelers for whom money is never an issue in a trade-off for an unforgettable experience, a stay at Madeline Resort & Residences is a must. From its lavish suites featuring idyllic views of the mountains to its on-site restaurants, bars, and clubs, you’ll be left wanting nothing more if you stay at this all-inclusive resort. Bask in their hard outdoor pool or take a yoga class at thor wellness spa which also offers some top-notch services which make for a perfect start to your holiday.
Things to See and Do in Mountain Village Core:
- Walk around Village Core
- Ride the gondola to Telluride
- Go ice-skating at the Mountain Village Ice Rink
- Jump for joy at Gravity Play Bungee Trampoline
- Try a round of golf at Telluride Golf Club
- Hit the slopes of Telluride Ski Resort
- Splurge on dinner at La Piazza Restaurant
- Grab a slice of pizza at Crazy elk Pizza
- Use the dial-a-ride service (basically a free taxi service)
- Head to San Sophia overlook for epic sunset views
- Have a spa day at Breathe Skin & Body
- Order some fine dining at Altezza at the Peaks
- Go biking around Telluride Bike Park
- Have a picnic at Sunset Plaza
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Hide Yo’ Money!FAQs About Finding a Place to Stay in Telluride.
Here’s what people usually ask me about the areas of Telluride and where to stay.
What To Pack For Telluride
Pants, socks, underwear, soap?! Take it from me, packing for a hostel stay is not always quite as straightforward as it seems. Working out what to bring and what to leave at home is an art I have perfected over many years.
Ear Plugs
Snoring dorm-mates can ruin your nights rest and seriously damage the hostel experience. This is why I always travel with a pack of decent ear plugs.
Hanging Laundry Bag
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Sea To Summit Micro Towel
Hostel towels are scummy and take forever to dry. Microfibre towels dry quickly, are compact, lightweight, and can be used as a blanket or yoga mat if need be.
Monopoly Deal
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Grayl Geopress Water Bottle
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Check out my definitive Hotel Packing list for even more top packing tips!
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Final Thoughts on Where to Stay in Telluride
Telluride is the ultimate Colorado road trip destination and one of the coolest places to ski. For frequent hikers, there are plenty of trails to explore and waterfalls to be uncovered. Ski bunnies should be happy to know that Telluride is truly unique, as it’s one of only three towns in the US where you can conveniently ski right into town.
We hope you’ve found somewhere to stay in Telluride that’s perfect for your travel needs. Make sure to stay in the Gondola District if it’s your first time in town, or in Telluride West End if arriving with a large group. If money’s no object, then staying in Mountain Village is also a terrific option since the ski town is specially catered toward high-rollers.
Thanks to Telluride’s quaint charm and friendly locals, this small town captivates the hearts of even the most experienced travelers. All in all, you’re sure to have a marvellous stay!
- Check out our ultimate guide backpacking around USA.
- Figured out where you wanna stay? Now it’s time to pick the perfect hostel in Telluride.
- Or… maybe you want to check out some Airbnbs in USA instead.
- Next up you’re gonna need to know all the best places to visit in USA to plan your trip.
- Save yourself hassle and money and get an international sim card for USA.
- Swing by our super epic backpacking packing list to prep for your trip.
And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
