Tucked away in a stunning box canyon in the heart of the San Juan Mountains, Telluride, Colorado, is a haven for luxury ski holidays and summer mountain travel. Its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture make it a premier destination.
Here at Exotic Estates we take the Telluride experience a notch higher. We offer an array of high-end lodging options that redefine mountain luxury.
From private estates to condos, and ski-in ski-out accommodations, our luxury Telluride rentals offer unique features and amenities that cater to the discerning traveler.
This guide will walk you through the types of Telluride Colorado luxury lodging. It should help you find the perfect accommodation that will make your stay in Telluride truly unforgettable. But first, let's talk about the mountain.
The Mountain – Telluride’s Famed Skiing & Snowboarding Experience
Telluride Ski Resort is one of the most breathtaking mountain destinations in North America, blending dramatic alpine terrain, legendary ski runs, and a vibrant mountain town atmosphere.
The resort spans over 2,000 acres of skiable terrain, offering a mix of wide-open cruisers, steep chutes, and pristine powder fields. With 148 runs, Telluride is designed for skiers and snowboarders of all levels, with 23% beginner, 36% intermediate, and 41% advanced/expert terrain.
The mountain features a 4,425-foot vertical drop, one of the most significant in North America. The base elevation starts at 8,725 feet, rising to 13,150 feet at the summit, ensuring excellent snow conditions all season long. On average, Telluride receives over 300 inches of snowfall each year, paired with 300 days of sunshine, making for some of the most consistently beautiful ski days in the Rockies.
For those who love long, scenic runs, Galloping Goose stretches an incredible 4.6 miles, winding from the mountain’s summit to the valley floor. With 17 lifts, including two high-speed gondolas and five high-speed quads, getting around the mountain is seamless, providing easy access to every peak and powder stash.
A Mountain with Two Personalities – Historic Telluride & Mountain Village
Telluride Ski Resort is divided between two distinct yet connected areas: the historic town of Telluride and the modern Mountain Village. A free gondola connects the two, offering spectacular views and effortless access between the vibrant downtown and the slopeside alpine retreat.
Downtown Telluride is rich in history and character, filled with charming boutiques, lively après-ski spots, and a local culture that feels refreshingly authentic. Skiers staying downtown can access the slopes via Lift 8 or the gondola, making it easy to start the day on the mountain.
Mountain Village is Telluride’s luxury ski hub, offering ski-in/ski-out vacation homes, fine dining, and a resort-style atmosphere. Many of Exotic Estates’ Telluride properties are located here, providing unparalleled access to the slopes and breathtaking views of the surrounding peaks.
Whether you want to wake up to the energy of a historic ski town or step out the door onto the slopes, Telluride provides the best of both worlds.
Signature Runs & Legendary Terrain
Telluride is renowned for its diverse terrain, offering everything from wide-open groomers to adrenaline-pumping expert runs.
- See Forever – One of Telluride’s most famous trails, this long, rolling run offers breathtaking panoramic views of the San Juan Mountains and is a must-ski for intermediate and advanced riders.
- The Plunge – A steep, heart-pounding descent that drops directly into downtown Telluride, making it one of the most iconic black-diamond runs in the country.
- Gold Hill Chutes – For those looking for steep, technical terrain, these chutes deliver tight lines, big drops, and untouched powder.
- Revelation Bowl – A high-elevation bowl offering incredible snow conditions and scenic views, perfect for intermediate and advanced skiers.
- Palmyra Peak & Black Iron Bowl – Telluride’s famous hike-to terrain, where dedicated skiers and riders can access untouched powder and thrilling steeps.
- Whether you’re carving wide-open turns, tackling moguls, or seeking untouched powder, Telluride offers an unforgettable skiing and snowboarding experience.
View the Telluride Trail Map here.
Adventure Beyond the Lifts – Hike-to Terrain & Expert Challenges
For those who crave adventure, Telluride offers some of the most thrilling hike-to terrain in Colorado. Palmyra Peak and Black Iron Bowl provide unmatched backcountry-style runs within the resort boundaries, accessible via short hikes from lift-served areas. These expert zones offer steep chutes, deep powder fields, and breathtaking summit views, making them a must for advanced skiers and riders looking for a challenge.
Telluride’s combination of lift-served and hike-to terrain creates one of the most well-rounded and exciting ski resorts in North America, giving visitors the feeling of a remote backcountry experience with the convenience of an inbounds ski area.
Whether you’re a seasoned skier looking for steep, technical runs or a beginner eager to explore the mountain’s gentle slopes, Telluride offers an unparalleled ski vacation in a stunning mountain setting.
Telluride Luxury Lodging with Exotic Estates
Telluride has a legendary status among Colorado Mountain Resorts. It's location in a box canyon, which is a canyon with one entrance, creates the feeling of a self-contained Shangri-La. Its varied lodging options ensure you can saok up the serene beauty of the mountains while enjoying modern comforts.
Many accommodations are graced with Victorian charm and contemporary elegance. From sprawling estates to chic condos, options abound.
Exotic Estates Telluride vacation homes offer a dazzling array of luxury lodging. Each rental is unique; whether you crave rustic charm or modern sleekness, there's something for everyone.
Ski-In/Ski-Out Homes in Mountain Village
For those who dream of stepping straight onto the slopes, our Mountain Village homes offer prime ski-in/ski-out access, making them perfect for winter sports enthusiasts. These elegantly designed homes blend modern luxury with rustic mountain charm, featuring expansive living areas, stone fireplaces, and large picture windows showcasing breathtaking views.
Guests can enjoy private hot tubs with panoramic alpine vistas, heated garages, gourmet kitchens, and direct access to Telluride’s renowned ski terrain. After a day of skiing or snowboarding, unwind in a spa-like primary suite, enjoy après-ski drinks by the fire, or relax in a private home theater or game room.
With Telluride’s gondola connecting Mountain Village to downtown, these homes provide easy access to restaurants, shopping, and après-ski entertainment while maintaining a private, elevated retreat in the mountains.
Historic Downtown Residences
Telluride’s downtown district is known for its vibrant culture, historic charm, and stunning mountain backdrop. Our luxury vacation homes in downtown Telluride place guests within walking distance of top-tier dining, boutique shopping, and live entertainment venues.
These homes are thoughtfully restored and designed to preserve their original character while incorporating modern amenities. Expect high ceilings, exposed wooden beams, and designer furnishings, alongside conveniences like state-of-the-art kitchens, smart home technology, and outdoor living spaces with fire pits and hot tubs.
Downtown Telluride is home to world-renowned festivals, art galleries, and lively après-ski spots, making it a fantastic option for guests who love to immerse themselves in the town’s rich history and culture. Whether you're exploring the scenic River Trail, catching a show at the historic Sheridan Opera House, or riding the free gondola to Mountain Village, these rentals provide a stylish and comfortable base for your adventure.
Expansive Family Lodges & Private Estates
For large groups or family gatherings, Exotic Estates offers expansive lodges and private mountain estates that provide the ultimate in space, privacy, and luxury. These multi-bedroom homes are perfect for hosting extended family vacations, corporate retreats, or special celebrations.
Set against Telluride’s breathtaking mountain landscapes, these homes feature grand living areas with soaring ceilings, impressive stone fireplaces, and oversized windows that frame incredible views. Many include private game rooms, media rooms, heated outdoor decks, and chef’s kitchens, ensuring a luxurious and memorable stay for every guest.
Outdoors, enjoy private hot tubs, fire pits, and spacious terraces perfect for taking in Colorado’s crisp mountain air and star-filled skies. With direct access to hiking trails, ski slopes, and pristine wilderness, these lodges provide a one-of-a-kind mountain escape.
Culinary Scene and Local Telluride Festivities
Savor Telluride's Culinary Delights
Telluride's dining scene is as diverse as its visitors. From five-star restaurants to local eateries, there's no shortage of culinary treasures.
- Alpen Glow: Famous for its fine dining and locally sourced ingredients, this restaurant offers an exquisite menu alongside a robust wine selection. Don't miss their seasonal specialties and farm-to-table dishes.
- The Butcher and The Baker: A casual spot known for its artisanal sandwiches and breakfast offerings. It's a beloved local hangout where visitors can enjoy freshly baked goods and delicious coffee.
- Mystique: For an upscale dining experience, Mystique offers creative cuisine in an inviting atmosphere. Perfect for a romantic dinner, it features an extensive wine list and expertly crafted cocktails.
Telluride Festivals Make It A Year-Round Destination
Telluride is alive with cultural festivities year-round, making it a lively place to visit beyond its luxurious lodgings.
- Telluride Film Festival (September): An annual event that draws film enthusiasts from around the globe. The festival showcases independent films and hosts discussions with filmmakers and actors.
- Telluride Bluegrass Festival (June): A renowned festival that features performances by world-class musicians. Enjoy a vibrant atmosphere filled with music, food, and community spirit.
- Winter Carnival (February): Celebrate winter with a weekend packed full of fun, featuring sledding, ice skating, and live entertainment.
Exotic Estates – Leaders in Luxury Vacation Rentals
Since 2006, Exotic Estates has specialized in luxury vacation rentals, offering a carefully curated collection of high-end homes in Telluride and other premier destinations. Our team of expert travel advisors and local specialists ensures that every home meets the highest standards of comfort, design, and guest experience.
Guests booking through Exotic Estates can expect:
- A handpicked selection of private, luxury vacation homes
- Seamless booking and personalized service
- Expert recommendations for ski passes, private chefs, and adventure excursions by local Concierge
- Access to top-tier amenities and concierge services to enhance your stay
Whether you're planning a winter ski trip, a summer hiking retreat, or a relaxing mountain getaway, Exotic Estates provides an effortless and luxurious way to experience Telluride.
Book Your Stay in Telluride
With unparalleled mountain access, world-class accommodations, and year-round adventure, Telluride is the perfect destination for an unforgettable vacation. Whether you prefer a slopeside chalet, a downtown retreat, or a private mountain lodge, Exotic Estates has the perfect home for your stay.
Contact us today to reserve your luxury Telluride vacation rental and experience the best in mountain living!
