It’s as close to feeling like flying as most people get, and Colorado offers some of the most scenic opportunities to go up in a hot air balloon. One of the nearest is located in Winter Park: Grand Adventure Hot Air Balloon Tours (970-887-1340, ), which shows off the magnificence of Grand County. The views on a clear day are of mountain peaks in five counties, and on a really good day, you can see up to 100 miles away. The experience always starts at sunrise, when the winds and the weather are most cooperative. The balloons can hold from one to eight people per balloon and the whole thing takes about 2 1/2 to 3 hours, including a champagne breakfast celebration at the end. Cost: $250 per person, including certificate and photos. Kyle Wagner
STAY: A cross between a boutique hotel and a bed and breakfast, the Gasthaus Eichler (78786 U.S. 40, 800-543-3899, ) is delightful, a European-style charmer with Jacuzzi tubs, flat-screen TVs and simple, comfortable rooms, located in downtown Winter Park next to the river. A hot, hearty breakfast is included, and the restaurant is a good choice for lunch or dinner, with plenty of German dishes and some Italian items too. Rates run $79-$129 in summer.
DINE: A savvy lunch option after the balloon ride is the groovy Mountain Rose Cafe (78542 U.S. 40, 970-726-1374, ), which serves hip, self-described hippie fare, with lots of vegetarian options. Everything in this casual spot is homemade, including fresh-baked breads, and the dishes are appealing and often innovative (breakfast all day; the breakfast sandwich with honey cream cheese, pumpkin seeds and strawberry bread is amazing). The sweet and spicy green chile and salsa are fantastic as well.
Winter Park is 67 miles west of Denver via Interstate 70 and U.S. 40.
