It doesn’t get more quintessentially Colorado than waterfall hikes, natural hot springs and craft breweries and, at Elkwood Manor Bed & Breakfast, it’s all minutes away. This chalet-style bed-and-breakfast just outside Pagosa Springs even looks the part with upscale log-cabin vibes and unbeatable views of the surrounding San Juan Mountains.
Once you arrive amid the pine-fresh air, sprawling green pastures and sweeping peak-strewn vistas, you’ll quickly see why Elkwood Manor is a beloved destination for romantic getaways and serene retreats. Sit on the veranda or spacious deck with a bottle of wine to watch the world go by, or let your cares melt away in the cozy hot tub.
Make yourself at home in one of the five plush suites, which each come outfitted with king-sized beds, fireplaces, refrigerators and private en-suite bathrooms. The quilts, stone bathroom detailing and rustic decor just add to the charm.
In the morning, fuel up for adventures with a hearty, homemade breakfast. In the evening, enjoy complimentary happy hour appetizers and cocktails. The owners, Jim and Odilia, consistently receive glowing reviews for their warmth and hospitality, and it shows in each thoughtful detail and interaction.
It’s all about the views. Even if you don’t book one of the rooms with a private balcony, you can take in the scenery from the common areas, such as the outdoor hot tub or the oversized deck.
It’s gotta be the pet-friendly suites. Conveniently located on the main floor with a side-door entrance, pups can have quick, easy access to the outdoors as needed. Here, the hospitality even extends to the furriest family members.
Sure, the private San Juan Suite packs plenty of perks — king-sized bed, spacious whirlpool tub, double sinks and gorgeous wood-carved fireplace mantel in the sitting area — but its real selling point is its unobscured visage of the toothy San Juan Mountains. Sit out on the east side porch to spot deer, birds and an unbelievable sunset.
There’s room for a party. A popular choice for Colorado weddings, Elkwood Manor can accommodate celebrations of up to 70 guests (including 15 overnight guests). Have your ceremony on the huge deck, then the reception on the flagstone-paved courtyard. Plus, pick a package with a seated dinner and open bar for an easy-to-plan, all-in-one-place wedding.
“We had a wonderful time at Elkwood Manor B&B. The property is absolutely lovely: panoramic views of the mountains, clean and charming accommodation, a delicious full breakfast, including the best French toast I've ever had, and incredibly friendly and warm hosts. The hospitality they offer truly feels like you're staying at an old friend's house, and the peace and being enveloped in nature is so restorative.” — Joyce S., Google Reviews
This region has everything from adventure to relaxation, all year long.
Trek one of the area’s waterfall hikes, such as Treasure Falls, a moderately challenging, 0.9-mile hike with a breathtaking overlook and a 105-foot waterfall. Go boating or fishing on the reservoir at Navajo State Park or marvel at ancient dwellings at Chimney Rock National Monument. At the privately owned Rocky Mountain Wildlife Park, get up close to bears, mountain lions, elk and wolves. Wolf Creek Ski Area, famed for getting the most snow in Colorado, is a wintertime playground with 1,600 skiable acres and more than 130 trails.
After a day of adventures, head into downtown Pagosa Springs, where you can unwind in a geothermal hot spring at The Springs Resort, offering 24 mineral-rich soaking pools with varying temperatures. Sip creative craft beers at Riff Raff Brewing Co. on the banks of the San Juan River and don’t miss dinner at Meander Riverside Eatery, a casual New American restaurant named one of the “Top 50 Restaurants in America” in 2024 by The New York Times.
Photos courtesy of Elkwood Manor Bed & Breakfast