It’s all about location, location, location at the Surf Hotel, just off the historic Main Street of Buena Vista. You’ll snooze a stone’s throw from the rushing waters of the Arkansas River and within sight of some of the state’s most stunning 14,000-foot peaks.
Tucked away, yet close to everything. Modern, but with an old-school New Orleans vibe. The Surf Hotel offers the best of both worlds on so many levels. Stay in the cozy rooms of the hotel for an array of features like clawfoot tubs, balconies and fiber-art finishes. Opt for the chateau where suites tout lofts, plush couches and quaint touches like canopy beds, fireplaces and courtyard patios. Or choose one of Surf Hotel’s South Main Residences — private guest houses each with their own style and amenities, including sunny rooftop decks, cozy gas fireplaces and tower bedrooms with panoramic views.
It really is the location. Walk out the door and you’re on the banks of the Arkansas River. A 10-minute stroll in the opposite direction takes you to the charming Main Street, where shops, eateries and a bevy of adult bevvies await. Or, hop in the car and cruise the Collegiate Peaks scenic byway. The soaring snow-capped peaks of some of Colorado’s tallest mountains — Mounts Harvard, Princeton and Yale, to name a few — will be your driving companions as you explore hiking trails, ghost towns and hot springs.
How about the fact that you can walk a few feet to drop your kayak in at the world-class Buena Vista Whitewater Park? You’ll find several waves and holes to play in, and there’s a feature for every skill level. Or, amble the riverside trail and watch professional kayakers bob and dip as the mountain breeze tousles your hair and, in spring and summer, hummingbirds chatter at you as they zip past.
The Wesley & Rose lobby bar lays claim to this title. Savor a seasonal dinner menu starring locally sourced delights — think Colorado grass-fed beef and fresh salads topped with goat cheese from the dairy down the road. Sunday brunches tempt taste buds with dishes like vegan breakfast bowls, huevos rancheros and beignets. The drink menu is nothing to sneeze at either: Whether your poison is Colorado craft beer or a creative smoked cocktail, you’re sure to find a tipple to tickle your fancy.
Treat yourself to the Green Room, where you can sip your coffee on the wrought-iron balcony as the spectacular river and mountain views provide an extra morning pick-me-up. Actually, you can treat the whole fam to this room because, in addition to the king-sized bed, there’s a bunkbed — all outfitted in spa-worthy linens and rustic-chic decor like macramé wall hangings and retro reading lights.
“Gorgeous stay nestled in nature. My husband and I were so happy to stumble upon this hotel while driving around Buena Vista. The hotel is simply beautiful, very modern yet authentic, and tucked against the river with beautiful views and trails. We discovered that this hotel is part of the creation of an intentional community, so there is a cute green plaza in front of the hotel where we enjoyed live music, and a cafe and brewery within walking distance. Very impressed by the design, quality and intention behind it. Would definitely stay again.” — Veronica F., Tripadvisor
Honestly, what isn’t there to do nearby? A 36-minute drive lands you in St. Elmo, one of Colorado’s best-preserved ghost towns to search for specters among the 43 buildings. Just 10 miles away you’ll find Browns Canyon National Monument, where you can hike or hook up with an outfitter to shoot some of the most popular whitewater rapids on the Arkansas. If you like your waters a little calmer, you’ll also be in close proximity to the mineral-rich soaking pools at Mount Princeton Hot Springs Resort. And powder hounds can swish down 66 runs at Monarch Mountain or squeal with glee on the tubing slopes.
Photos courtesy of Surf Hotel
