The sanctuary of Telluride, Colorado, sits snuggly at the end of a horseshoe-shaped box canyon, ringed by the rugged San Juan Mountains. Once a bustling mining town during the gold rush, Telluride’s historic district bursts with meticulously preserved Victorian architecture; the Sheridan Opera House enchants with performances.

Low-key, well-heeled visitors gravitate to Telluride for high-altitude exploring, a vibrant culinary and arts scene, and festivals (such as the Telluride Film Festival and the Bluegrass Festival). The creative pulse of the community is always within reach.

Throughout the year the free gondola shuttles people between town (elevation 8,750 feet) and the upper Mountain Village (9,545 feet). Wintertime revolves around diverse and challenging skiing. In the warmer months, visitors hike to Bear Creek Falls and Bridal Veil Falls. Wild West enduring grandeur, meet a sophisticated mountain town with a spirited past. — Kim Grant