Wine Country Inn is nestled in Palisade, an agricultural haven flanked by striated desert mountains and lush with vineyards, peach orchards and — in summer — blooming roses. No worries if you find all that tranquility overwhelming: You can easily spice up your vacay with plenty of outdoor adventure (like hiking, biking and kayaking) along with lively festivals, restaurants and drinkeries.
The hotel's rooms and suites offer luxe lounge chairs, cozy beds and to-die-for views, and some king rooms boast private patios (yes, please). No matter which room you opt for, you’ll find touches like historical portraits, ensuring you feel like you’ve been transported away from the bustle of modern-day life. Feeling peckish? Choose from two on-site restaurants with menus starring locally sourced fare, like smoked-bison meatloaf and Palisade peach bread pudding. Or, have the inn put together a gourmet to-go snack bag, ideal for winery cycling tours or post-hike picnics.
How about the fact that it has its own vineyard? Step outside to marvel at rows of vines as their leaves flutter in the high-desert breeze. Sit a spell in one of the many rocking chairs as you enjoy a glass of wine that originated in the very vineyard you’re admiring. And you’re in the heart of Colorado wine country — so if you need to sample all the varietals, you’ll find plenty of tasting rooms within walking or biking distance.
We’re gonna go with the amazing setting. While this might not be the mountainous terrain you expect of Colorado, we’re pretty sure our Western Slope won’t disappoint. To the west, you have the Grand Mesa — the world’s largest flat-top mountain. To the north, the stunning Bookcliffs, whose sandstone ridges turn marvelous shades of magenta and crimson at sunset. And that’s just scratching the surface!
If free food and drinks floats your boat, this is your place. Each morning, help yourself to an array of breakfast sandwiches, pastries and fruit — perfect to take with you on the day’s adventures. And when you return, unwind with a free glass of vino at the complimentary afternoon wine reception.
“This was a great choice for our first stay in Palisade, and I cannot wait to try and make it back there for one of the many festivals that the town has year-round. The rooms were pleasant and very clean, the outdoor areas are well manicured and the property backs up to a wonderful vineyard. The service was great from check-in to the bar to dinner. We had a delicious burger and appetizers from Tapestry and enjoyed a rich and flavorful dinner from Caroline's. Overall, we will stay here again, and I truly enjoyed every minute in Palisade.” — Jacob W., Google
You’ll be a short stroll from charming downtown Palisade, which is filled with restaurants and tasting rooms. Grab a frosty pint of beer at Palisade Brewing Company or sip an adult limeade at Peach Street Distillers. Rapid Creek Cycles can get you geared up for outdoor excursions, whether you’re looking to leisurely pedal the Fruit & Wine Byway, take on MTB trails or spend a day kayaking and paddleboarding. And in summer and fall you can revel in festivals celebrating the town’s agricultural pride, like the Palisade Peach Festival and Colorado Mountain Winefest.
Photos courtesy of Wine Country Inn
