Tucked into the densest collection of public archaeological sites in the country, Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch in Cortez is a stunningly beautiful, culturally authentic and peaceful escape to quiet your mind and soothe your soul.
History, nature, archaeology and natural beauty blend harmoniously at this boutique guest ranch near Mesa Verde National Park and the Four Corners region, offering a one-of-a-kind experience. The collection of luxury private guesthouses and cabins will pamper you with amenities and extras, while also putting you close to a plethora of Mother Nature’s wonders.
This working ranch features herds of sheep and cattle roaming the pastures, chickens that provide guests with fresh eggs and resident cats and dogs hanging around.
With ancient ruins and dramatic rock formations nearby, not to mention a breathtaking starry sky at night, Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch is a quintessential Colorado hideaway.
Its striking ancient aura, no doubt. Some guests swear that you can actually feel a special energy – a spirit from the past – when you step foot on the grounds here. Even if you don’t, you will absolutely be moved by the ranch’s beauty and surroundings.
As beautiful as it is, this spot is also a real working cattle and sheep ranch, where you can watch the bustle around you or even pitch in to help feed the animals, weed the gardens and complete farm chores.
The pebble-stone shower in Cowboy Log Cabin is a luxurious and surprising touch!
How many places have you stayed that come with their own sanctuary, where you can meditate, reflect and soak up the rich culture that surrounds you? The on-site Folsom Point Sanctuary provides just that. Using antique doors and temple panels from India, Navajo artist Manual Morgan designed and built this striking space inspired by the geometrical form of a Folsom Point Arrowhead.
Two words: sound therapy. The ranch offers an abundance of sensory, meditative and wellness experiences, including sound-therapy sessions that help release stress and replenish energy through the use of tones, harmonics, gongs and crystal balls.
Two more words: Sky Kiva. This studio combines ancient design with modern comforts for an intimate, yet grand stay. You’ll step inside a circular chamber with soaring 20-foot-high ceilings, then quickly discover a fully equipped kitchen, fireplace and plush king-sized bed with organic sheets. Right outside, a majestic Eagle Dancer statue is surrounded by sweeping views of Sleeping Ute Mountain.
“We stayed in the Sky Tower. A truly remarkable property and experience! Perhaps the most lavish and upscale place we have ever stayed. At night, the brightest stars we have ever seen. Gary and Ming are great hosts, providing insight into some of the local attractions mostly skipped by the travel websites. Without question, treat yourself to a stay at their private Sky Village.” — Rayjay80, Tripadvisor
If outdoor adventure is your thing, you can hike, bike and horseback ride through nearby trails, or ski and snowboard in the winter. Want to sit back and relax? Hop on the famous Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad, soak in one of several local hot springs or sip Colorado wines at Sutcliffe Vineyards, less than 10 minutes away.
If exploring ancient ruins and rock formations fascinates you, you’re only minutes from Canyons of the Ancients and Hovenweep national monuments and just a few hours from Black Canyon of the Gunnison National Park near Montrose.
Photos courtesy of Canyon of the Ancients Guest Ranch