5 Ways to Unwind in Grand County

A woman in a hat is standing on a wooden fence.

Up here in Grand County, we've mastered the art of relaxation. It would only seem natural, given our spectacular surroundings and the away-from-it-all tranquility of our valleys. But our setting is only one reason we're so good at unwinding.

Our penchant for outdoor activity means that most of us have a talent for restoring sore muscles with the right dose of hot springs soaking, spa treatments, and even a few sips of local vino.

So if you find yourself in need of a break from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, come on up to Grand County. We've got a few tried and true methods for kicking back and indulging in a little rest and relaxation.

1. Take a Dip in Hot Sulphur Springs

It doesn't take much to melt away your worries at the Hot Sulphur Springs Resort & Spa. The thermally heated mineral water that rises up into the resort's 21 pools are rich with sodium, potassium, sulfate, fluoride and a handful of other minerals that have healing properties. With temperatures ranging from 95º to 112º F, these pools are in season every season.

2. Visit One of Our Spas

After you're done soaking and unwinding in the pools at Hot Sulphur Springs, sign up for a massage, body treatment or facial at the resort's spa. Or take your pick from a handful of day spas throughout the valley, including the luxurious spa at Devil's Thumb Ranch Resort & Spa in Winter Park.

3. Spend the Night in a Yurt and Sleep In

Grand County's backcountry huts and yurts are the definition of tranquility. But if you're not in the mood to pack everything in and hike a few miles with it on your back — you're after R&R after all — consider the yurts at the YMCA of the Rockies - Snow Mountain Ranch. Here you can enjoy the area's natural peace and quiet in relative comfort, while completely unplugging from the stresses of everyday life. If you need a vacation from your smart phone, it's the way to go.

4. Take a Yoga Class

Few activities stretch out your body and open your mind better than yoga, particularly when done in the high country of Colorado's mountains. Grand County has a handful of yoga studios throughout the valley that offer regular classes for yoga enthusiasts of all levels. Mountain Moon Yoga in Winter Park is one of our favorites.

5. Go Wine Tasting

You might not be able to see a grapevine for hundreds of miles, but that hasn't stopped a few enterprising locals from making wine. The Winter Park Winery in Fraser offers regular tastings of its Grand Valley-sourced wines, including such varietals as Merlot, Syrah, Chardonnay, Riesling and Cabernet Sauvignon. Prefer spirits over wine? Check out Fraser Valley Distilling for locally distilled whiskey, gin and more!