BOULDER, COLORADO The Charm and Allure of

WORDS BY AMANDA SMITH

IMAGES BY ANDREW FRENCH

Boulder isn’t necessarily the first place that comes to mind when you think of Colorado, but it should be. Just 40 minutes from Denver, this historic, quaint town is home to two charming, luxurious hotels.

The Boulderado was built in 1909 by the citizens of Boulder to host visitors and future students of the new university up the hill. The original structure – a landmark property – stands proudly on a city block, steps from the bustling Pearl Street. It is home to one of the most inviting lobbies I have ever seen. The original wood frames the reception desk leading you up the grandiose staircase to the mezzanine, and the rail that skirts around the atrium held up by a colorful stained-glass window.

Mia, the wedding director, picturesquely described a ceremony at the helm of the mezzanine landing halfway up the staircase that suspends the couple mid-air as their family and friends sit along the rail. Imagine how the bride must feel descending the staircase running her hand along that smooth wood like so many before her.

The suites in the original building are typically offered for the wedding party preparation and have gorgeous natural light and original furnishings and wallpaper, making each one unique.