Get away from it all at The Hygge Chalet & Sauna in the tiny town of Grant, known for its pastoral landscape, shimmering aspen groves and craggy mountain views. To get there from the Denver metro area, take scenic Highway 285 southwest, which often runs parallel to the South Platte River.
This renovated, 1970s A-frame will charm you at first sight. Everything about this tucked-away vacation rental is inspired by the Scandinavian concept of hygge, or coziness. Painted a vibrant, eggshell blue on the outside, you’ll love the soaring ceiling inside, along with the calm-inducing cream-colored walls, sleek furnishings and tons of natural sunlight. Want to feel extra snuggly on a cold winter night? Play one of the chalet’s many board games while the toasty gas fireplace flickers.
The Hygge Chalet is an ideal place for outdoor relaxation as well. It sits on 3.5 acres of mostly wooded land near Pike National Forest and delivers two elevated wooden decks (ideal for lots and lots of lounging), a hammock, plus a picture-perfect flagstone patio.
It’s the details, like the tiny (matching) bluebird-blue-colored Hygge Chalet for the resident birdies (you’ll spot it on a nearby tree). Or the truly exquisite “found” deer skull hanging from the wall — covered in raw turquoise and mica by a local artisan. Or the geometric cutouts on the pendant stove lighting.
You’ll love the classic cabin-in-the-woods vibes of this well-loved vacation spot. The triangle-shaped home is surrounded by quintessential Rocky Mountain wilderness, including lots and lots of evergreens. To see snow pillowed grandly on green-needled branches is a true Colorado experience.
It has its own Finnish barrel steam sauna tucked under the trees! Purify your body and find some inner peace as you pour water onto heated rocks to make steam. In winter, cool off after your sauna session by making snow angels in some majorly fluffy powder.
There’s a street-art-inspired mural showcasing a dreamy aspen-tree-meets-mandala scene right behind the house.
It’s everywhere around the chalet! Look up at night to see shimmering stars and celestial bodies. Most of the time, the sky is clear enough to see the Milky Way. Or look west for richly colorful sunsets in tones of peach, turmeric and rose and you just might see Colorado’s famous winter alpenglow (a pink-and-purple sky that glows when it’s cold outside and conditions are just right).
“The Hygge Chalet gave my wife and I an enchanting space to breathe, reset and just enjoy each other’s company in endless nature. This calming chalet creates an aura that helps guests be in the present and enjoy the important things in life. Julie Anne’s gorgeous home is top notch. The vibe, furniture, fireplace and decor are all absolutely beautiful. Julie Ann provided toiletries, and even your own eco-friendly toothbrush/toothpaste. And the views!!! The views are imprinted in my head for eternity. Surrounded by nature and a perfect view of the mountains, this spot is ideal for drinking coffee on the patio and simply exhaling. An iPad was provided for streaming Netflix/Spotify, and even provided an adorable sound system to vibe out all day. The sauna on site was perfection. She can also give you instructions on how to reach a great hiking path on the property as well. (Check out her website for more tips.) If you haven’t made up your mind yet, stop what you’re doing and book this spot. We could all use some calm. Thank you, Julie Anne!” — Natalie, Airbnb
Hiking and snowshoeing trails abound in Grant, including a private trail from the chalet into Pike National Forest that takes you past a cascading creek and fluttering aspen grove for a scenic panorama.
Nearby fly-fishing spots are plentiful as well. Boxwood Gulch, Long Meadow Ranch, Wellington Lake and Spinney Mountain State Park are all good options. Pop by Platte River Outfitter in Bailey for gear and info or book an outing with North Fork Ranch Guide Service in Shawnee for fishing farther out.
Or plan a day trip to one of Colorado’s world-class ski resorts at Breckenridge, Copper Mountain or Vail. All within one to two hours of the Hygge Chalet, these nearby resort towns aren’t just for skiing and snowboarding. They also boast summer things to do like mountain coasters and kids’ activities, along with year-round shopping and dining options.
Find more Hygge Chalet-approved activity ideas here.
Photos courtesy of The Hygge Chalet & Sauna
