HEMISPHERES
Three Perfect Days
Boulder
Sitting pretty on the Front Range of the Rocky Mountains, Boulder certainly gives ‘Colorful Colorado’ its name. Surrounded by stunning mountain views, the picturesque town offers unique art, an array of outdoor adventure, welcoming locals and magnificent food. From Michelin star dining to hot dogs on the go, Boulder will keep you well fed to say the least. Don’t worry, though, because the sunshine and crisp air will keep you outside and keep you from going up a pant-size.
Day 1
Where to Stay
St. Julien Hotel and Spa
The St. Julien Hotel and Spa in Boulder offers luxurious accommodations, breathtaking mountain views, world-class dining, and indulgent spa treatments. With its elegant ambiance and impeccable service, it promises an unforgettable retreat.
Hotel Boulderado
The Hotel Boulderado exudes historic charm with its elegant architecture and tasteful accommodations. With its central location, exceptional service, and exemplary food and drink, it offers an unforgettable stay.
A gorgeous hike, heavenly short rib hash, and a fabulous massage
Waking up to the most heavenly view peeping through my balcony doors in Boulder’s St. Julien Hotel and Spa was just what I needed to start my day off right. The delicious, hot coffee and fresh croissant I grabbed downstairs didn’t hurt, either. I decide to start my trip off with a hike which took me about 20 minutes down the road to Walker Ranch Loop, a trail through Walker Ranch Park and a portion of El Dorado Canyon State Park. I hike for about three hours, taking in the natural beauty of the forrest, river, and mountains. Heading back toward downtown a little after noon, I keep the windows down the whole time in awe of how lovely it feels outside.
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I decide to stop at Chautauqua Park, the entrance to the iconic Flatiron mountains which are made up of three, rugged sandstone slabs. The sun is at its peak right above my head, and I can clearly see each detail of on the massive formation ahead. Families and couples picnic and dogs run and play on the field around me as slowly ease up the beginning of the trail. I stop just before the forest line and head to the car as I’m getting quite hungry. Luckily, the park is just a quick drive from my next destination through the Hill, a quaint neighborhood where many CU Boulder students live with charming Tudor, Victorian, and bungalow style houses.
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I treat myself to a farm-to-table brunch at River and Woods, a can’t-miss-spot. Their Short Rib Hash was quintessential, and the perfect post hike meal. Feeling satisfied, I saunter back to the St. Julien and slip into my robe, ready to use the rest of the afternoon to be pampered at the Spa. Impressed by every part of the experience, I particularly enjoy the ‘Colorado Bliss CBD Deep Tissue Massage’ after my hike. My mind and body are totally relaxed as I wrap up my time at the spa with cucumber water and a soak in the jacuzzi. To end the night on a comfy note, I call down from my room for a hummus plate; I’m once again impressed. Before long, I’m fast asleep in my ultra-comfortable bed, excited for the next day.
King Mountain View with Balcony room at the St. Julien Hotel and Spa.
Short Rib Hash at River and Woods.
St. Julien Spa jacuzzi with a view.
Day 2
The perfect girls-day featuring fine dining and fine jewelry
I throw my balcony doors open and let the sunlight and birds’ chirping fill my room as I get ready. Switching my hiking boots for sandals, I head downstairs to meet my close and semi-local friend, Blair, for my second day in Boulder.
We grab a coffee from the lobby and take the long way walking over to Stella’s Cucina on Pearl Street (the St. Julien is situated one block down from both historic and eccentric Pearl St., putting it right in the heart of town with the best, unobstructed views). Stella’s received a Michelin Star in 2023 (the same year it opened), applauding Chef Filippo and owner Stella Spanu for their unique Italian cuisine. Blair and I order three dishes to split and I’m thrilled to see French Press coffee as an offering. That is always a nice brunch touch, in my opinion. We agree everything is beyond tasty, but neither of us can stop going in for more of the Uovo Al Caviale; I’ll be craving of this for years to come.
We head out along Pearl Street, window shopping and listening to the guitars of street artists. We stop into Weekends, a locally owned, upscale, curated store with both men and women’s apparel. I find a beautiful leather tote to take to the office with me and a dainty tennis bracelet in the jewelry case that I can’t leave without. Next Blair takes me into Angie Star Jewelry, another locally owned business, with quality, locally made pieces. I pick out a ring for my sister with her birthstone and a pair of earrings for my mom that I know she’ll love. Last, we go into Haven and Mabel and Moss, two boutiques right next to each other with stellar selections of chic and timeless women's clothing.
Blair and I stroll a bit longer down the promenade and then retire to my hotel room to rest and rejuvenate. Dinner tonight is another exciting (and walkable) venture to Steakhouse 316. The restaurant started in Aspen and lives up to its reputation of superiority. The maître d’ seats us in a cozy booth in the back room of the restaurant which is dimly lit and tastefully clad with red velvet, wood paneling, and timeless paintings. We begin with an impressive table-side caesar, and dine on locally sourced and deliciously prepared steak, potatoes, and bold red wine, chatting the night away.
Pastry spead at Stella's Cucina.
Angie Star Jewelry store.
Pearl Street promonade.
Day 3
Horseback riding, gourmet pizza, and endless views
I wake up to a glorious (and final) day in Boulder ready for what I have been most excited about: horseback riding in the mountains and a scenic drive to and from. Before long I’m on the road to Estes Park, via Peak to Peak Scenic Byway, accessible by Canyon Rd on which the St. Julien happens to sit on the corner. The road is winding, but in the summer the drive is very doable, even to a timid mountain-driver like me. The historic byway stretches 55-miles long and passes through numerous attractions for all types of tourists and locals, from the Black Hawk casinos to Golden Gate Canyon State Park.
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The views are simply stunning as I drive along the Continental Divide, and about an hour and a half later I’m pulling into Hi Country Glacier Creek Stables. My guide, Ana, is upbeat and fun as we gear up for the trail; my horse, Tricky, turns out to an angel, politely following behind Ana. Inside of Rocky Mountain National Park we ride along the Bear Lake Corridor, admiring breathtaking views of Longs Peak, Bear Lake (and other lakes), and the forest. The three hours fly by as I am enjoying myself so much.
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Now back on the byway, I stop for a late lunch in Nederland, a small town near the Eldora ski area. I land at a small restaurant on the creek called Cross Cut. Everything on the menu sounds wonderful but I finally land on the Teo (aka Extra Special Cheese) pizza featuring bacon, jalapeños, and house-made chili honey. It was more delicious than I ever imagined it would be. The rest of the drive back to Boulder takes me about 35 minutes as I enjoy an episode of my favorite true crime podcast.
As I’m leaving for dinner a lively jazz band is playing in the lobby, almost making me kick my plans and stay there. I decide to still walk over to OAK at Fourteenth and find a spot at the bar. The bartender is very friendly and steers me toward The Redeemer as my cocktail which hits the spot. For food I keep it light with the Apple and Kale Salad along with the 7x Beef Tartare - both delicious. The atmosphere was warm and comfortable and kept me there for another Redeemer or two, the perfect nightcap to an unforgettable trip.
