Karnazes at Dunton's Major Ross Cabin. (Photograph by Matthew Hranek)
4. Dunton Hot Springs
>>>> Dolores, Colorado THE VIBE: It's rumored that after robbing a bank in Telluride, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid lay low at Dunton Hot Springs, though it's unlikely they took any yoga classes. In 1994, the 800-acre mining town, on the West Fork of the Dolores River, was transformed into an upscale spa and adventure complex, and these days you won't find outlaws, just celebs who've played them. Midway between the towns of Dolores and Telluride, Dunton is surrounded by the San Juan Mountains, where, depending on the season, guests can wear themselves out with high-alpine hikes, snowshoeing trips,
FLOW FACTS
451,995
Avg. number of bubbles a jacuzzi jet shoots out each second
fly-fishing excursions, backcountry skiing, and horseback riding. But Dunton's claim to fame is its orange-tinged mineral hot springs, where guests slip on their Stetsons after yoga class, sit back, and take in the scenery. The 28 visitors stay in the 12 restored 19th-century log cabins (and three tepees) scattered under the spruces and aspens. GUEST LIST: Executives, movie stars, and other well-heeled wellness seekers.
A private club. (Photograph by Matthew Hranek)
AWE FACTOR: No need for public displays of soaking: One cabin and one tepee have 103-degree geothermal springwater piped straight into their tubs. TO-DIE-FOR TREATMENT: Trager Therapy, in which joints are loosened by repetitive rocking and shaking movements. Trust us: It's more relaxing than it sounds. MENU: Local organic produce, served with organic free-range beef and lamb from local suppliers. The culinary team tops it off with homemade organic peach ice cream. HE-MAN RATING: Three gruntsDunton provides tremendous outdoor opportunities. PRICE: From $250 per person per night (two-night minimum), double occupancy, meals included CONTACT: 970-882-4800, www.duntonhotsprings.com