Colorado is well known for its mountains and sky-reaching heights (ever heard of the Mile High City?), so it's fitting that its hotels are also high achievers. From the clubby classic look of Aspen's historic Hotel Jerome to the alpine charm of Vail's Sonnenalp Hotel to the contemporary chic of Denver's Four Seasons, our thirteen Key hotels run the gamut of styles. Among the standouts, Dunton Hot Springs is a Two-Key resort that has breathed new life into a onetime ghost town. It's not too far from Telluride, but it's a million miles away from your typical mountain resort.
Colorado's history is perhaps best seen and felt at The Crawford Hotel, tucked inside the landmark Union Station, while modernity definitely reigns at a number of our favorite spots, including Denver's Clayton Hotel & Members Club and The Mollie in Aspen.
Of course, good looks are just part of the experience at these hotels. MICHELIN-Recommended dining may be found in several spots on this list, including The Little Nell's Element 47 and Hotel Jerome's Prospect.
You can hardly go wrong. Below, explore the map of every Key hotel in Colorado, then scroll down to learn more about what makes each one special.
The MICHELIN Key Hotels in Colorado
Dunton Hot Springs - Two Keys
DoloresIt's a ghost town, just with all the trappings of a luxury resort. Set in remote southwestern Colorado along the banks of the Dolores River, it's halfway between Telluride and Mesa Verde. This abandoned century-old gold prospectors’ camp was renovated shack by shack and rehabilitated into a truly unique luxury hotel — a place where roughing it in hand-hewn log cabins (and one teepee) neatly coincides with spa treatments, thermal baths and fine organic dining.
Hotel Jerome, Auberge Resorts Collection - One Key
AspenAspen is known for its A-list residents and visitors but not too long ago it was a classic old West town. Hotel Jerome ushered in the new era and for those who love history, it's the perfect choice. It's set in the heart of the town and has a classic, clubby look in the public spaces (think leather Chesterfield sofas and plenty of wood), while the rooms share a variety of styles, with some showing off Native American influences. There's a pool and spa, plus you'll never need to leave the hotel for a good meal at MICHELIN-Recommended Prospect.
The Little Nell - One Key
AspenAsk any skier for their favorite spot in town and it's likely they'll name The Little Nell. This luxe resort occupies a prime position at the foot of the Silver Queen Gondola, making it ideal for ski-in/ski-out access. Of course, it's beloved for more than just its address. This hotel pours on the comforts with sleek, modern styling (and nary an antler in sight). It's city chic in the heart of the mountains and there's terrific contemporary dining at the in-house Element 47.
Mollie Aspen - One Key
AspenThis boutique hotel shares a sleek, Scandi-cool design with its lucky guests. It's mountain modern, with warm woods, earth tones and simple styling, all within a quick shuttle ride from the mountain. It's just the place to warm up after a day on the slopes for those who never want to leave their hipster sensibility behind.
Clayton Hotel & Members Club - One Key
DenverIt's just a few miles south of Denver but the Clayton Hotel & Members Club blends convenience with a desirable location in Cherry Creek North. It's indeed the kind of club you'll want to be a member of, even for just a few days. Casual sophistication pervades, with comfortable rooms and plenty of amenities, including a rooftop restaurant, pool and scene-y cocktail bar with live DJs.
The Crawford Hotel - One Key
DenverFor those who want to be in the heart of Lower Downtown, it doesn't get better than The Crawford Hotel. This boutique property is tucked inside the landmark Union Station, and the lobby is a mix of hotel guests and passengers whiling away the time before boarding a train. The public spaces are buzzy, while the rooms are soothing and stylish. There's plenty right here, but all of downtown is also just outside the door.
Four Seasons Denver - One Key
DenverThe brand needs no introduction, and the Denver property maintains the same strict standards of service, but there's also more at this skyscraper hotel. The views, for one, are thrilling. Add clean, modern styling with nods to the local area (think stacked stone fireplaces) and a whole host of amenities ideal for those traveling on business or leisure to this hotel's advantages.
The Armstrong Hotel - One Key
Fort Collins
College towns are often packed with the typical chain hotels, but not Fort Collins, where The Armstong Hotel honors its classic Old West roots. Just an hour from Denver, this hotel is all boutique charm with design that incorporates history and regional flair while remaining thoroughly of the moment.
The Elizabeth Hotel, Autograph Collection - One Key
Fort Collins
If a little bit of luxury is music to your ears, book The Elizabeth Hotel. This boutique hotel doesn't miss a beat, quite literally, as music is a theme throughout the property (think record players in the rooms, intstruments for loan and live music). It's the kind of spot that's grand and cool at the same time. Just don't miss the rooftop lounge with stunning views.
Lumière by Dunton - One Key
Telluride
This Mountain Village resort combines the services of a hotel with the space of a rental home, making it a natural choice for those traveling with larger groups of family or friends. These accommodations feature oversized, en-suite bathrooms, kitchenettes and plenty of room to stretch out. Unlike a rental home, this resort also includes pools, a restaurant and concierge services for the best of both worlds in Telluride.
Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection - One Key
Telluride
This hotel has all of the trappings expected of a posh mountain resort. It's the sort of place where antler chandeliers and fur throws lend a refined rustic look to an otherwise polished palette. Located in Telluride's Mountain Village, it's a prime position for skiers who appreciate the ski-in/ski-out access, but town is just a gondola ride away.
Sonnenalp Hotel - One Key
Vail
Sometimes you want the classic, old-world feel of a European chalet, and the Sonnenalp Hotel delivers. Opened by the same family that founded the original property in Bavaria, this Vail hotel is as charming as they come. From the plaid curtains to the wood-planked walls, it offers a step back in time and a hop across the continent complete with modern-day needs including four restaurants and a spa. It's also within walking distance of the village and lifts.
Hero image: Madeline Hotel & Residences, Auberge Resorts Collection
