Teetering on the border of New Mexico, tucked into the southwest corner of Colorado and surrounded by the San Juan Mountains in La Plata County, Durango is alive with history, offering limitless activities and a fresh outdoor lifestyle in a majestic mountain setting. The town’s name comes from the Basque word Urango, which means “water town.”  Located in the beautiful Animas River Valley, the area’s first residents were the Anasazi Indians, who were undoubtedly attracted to the bountiful waters of the Animas River. The native people vacated the “Four Corners” region around 1300, and it wasn’t until 1880 that Durango was founded by the Denver and Rio Grande Railroad, when they extended their line from Durango to Silverton. The Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad has been in continuous operation for more than 120 years.  And while it is famous for having carried more than 300 million dollars in precious metals from high country mines, today the railroad now hauls only tourists—approximately 200,000 people a year. The town and surrounding area also boasts somewhat of a Hollywood appeal, having served as the backdrop to several famous classic films such as “Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid,” “City Slickers,” “Cliffhanger,” “National Lampoons' Vacation,” “Night Passage,” “Around the World in 80 Days,” “How the West Was Won” and “Tracker.”

LUXURY & BOUTIQUE ACCOMMODATIONS

Strater Hotel
800.247.4431
strater.com
One of downtown Durango's most elegant landmarks, this historic hotel was built in 1887. The original owner was a pharmacist by the name of Henry Strater.  Louis L'Amour wrote the Sackett Series, a set of western novels while staying at the hotel.
 

General Palmer Hotel
800.523.3358
generalpalmer.com
Built in 1898, this prestigious Victorian landmark blends the comforts of modern living, with the elegance of a historical setting in downtown.


The Purgatory Lodge
800.982.6103
durangomountainresort.com
This luxury ski-in/ski-out property at Durango Mountain Resort offers unparalleled views of the ski area, Needles Mountains or Purgatory Village. Two- to four-bedroom units boast luxurious appointments including granite countertops, tile floors, gas fireplaces, flat screen TV’s, balcony, wireless internet and washer/dryer. The lodge also offers guests access to concierge service, pool and spa, fitness center and Cabana bar.