The 18 best Airbnbs in Colorado for the perfect mountain retreat

Location: Bailey, Colorado

This sweet A-frame cabin is a perfect rural idyl. Full of retro charm with its stained wooden beams, patterned kitchen tiles, antique rugs and furnishings, it’s warm and inviting with comfy sofas, blanketed beds and huge fireplaces waiting for you to snuggle up in front of. On the wooden deck outside you’ll find an impressive fire pit as well as a raised cedar wood hot tub with beautiful views into the surrounding woodland. If you can bear to leave you’re also well-placed to explore trails and head out on Rocky Mountain experiences. This is a great bet for winter, offering all the peaceful tranquillity of Colorado’s most remote wildernesses but without having to navigate tricky mountain passes to get there. 

Time Out tip: Open fires and charcoal grills aren’t allowed here due to the region’s wildfire risk, so lean into the indoor fireplace and propane fire table instead. Deer wander through most mornings, and bears do occasionally pass by too, so keep food locked away and car doors shut.

Sleeps: Two bedrooms, three beds (a king plus a queen and a single). Sleeps 4 guests.

Perks: Private cedar hot tub open year-round, swinging stargazing net, gas fireplace, one dog welcome per stay, locally roasted coffee provided.

Price: From$534 a night. 

Location: Florissant, Colorado

Cozying up is not an option but a must at this stylish A-frame, nestled on two wooded acres with views overlooking Pike Peak. Remodeled with sleek and simple Scandi-style interior decked out with a gas fireplace, hot tub, a Sonos system, and a spa-like shower, this A-frame really brought its A-game. When you're not snuggled up indoors, taking a trip down to the nearby lake, renting a kayak, and hiking through the National Forest are just a few of the many ways to enjoy your natural surroundings.

Time Out tip: Sitting at 8,600ft, altitude symptoms are common if you’re coming straight from sea level, the hosts recommend a day acclimatising in Denver or Boulder first, staying hydrated, and going easy on alcohol the first night. Open fires aren’t allowed at all here, and even the gas fire pit can be switched off during a county fire ban, so check conditions before you book if that’s a dealbreaker.

Sleeps: Two bedrooms, two queen beds (one in the loft, one on the main level), one bathroom. Sleeps 4.

Perks: Five-person hot tub with Pikes Peak views, stargazing swing, Norwegian gas fireplace, Starbucks coffee bar, one dog welcome.

Price: From $342 a night.

Location: Loma, Colorado

This green home Airbnb in Loma, Colorado is newly constructed and environmentally friendly – it's solar-powered and built with eco-conscious construction panels, to reduce the impact on the environment. Staying here will have nature take care of you, while you also take care of nature; a win-win situation. The Colorado Airbnb is located on a farm, only eight minutes away from hiking, mountain and road bicycling, and river rafting, making it a great location for adrenaline junkies. It sleeps four guests in one queen-sized bed and two sofa beds in the living room, and you'll have full use of the spacious and fully equipped kitchen. This will be your new home away from home.

Time Out tip: There’s a private sauna on site to unwind in after a day on the trails, and an outdoor fire pit and patio for evenings under the stars. Say hello to the farm’s resident donkeys and horse while you’re at it and expect fresh eggs from the property too.

Sleeps: One bedroom, three beds (a queen plus two sofa beds), one bathroom. Sleeps 4.

Perks: Private sauna, outdoor fire pit, mountain and Colorado National Monument views, dedicated workspace, plentiful free parking.

Price: From $247 a night.

Location: Breckenridge, Colorado

Want to treat yourself? This pretty-as-a-picture ranch is right on the bend of the river and is set within its own 15 acres of prime Colorado scenery. And we bet you’re thinking it’s way too expensive, right? Well, it’s not cheap but it can host 22 people, so when you divide it all across the lot of you, it’s not too bad. Especially good for you sporting folks, with activities including hiking, fly-fishing, golf, mountain biking, and water sports. A lot of Colorado fun, right on your doorstep.

Time Out tip: The Blue River is Gold Medal-rated by the state, so if fly-fishing is on your group's list, this stretch rivals anywhere in Colorado for it and you’re staying right on it. Swan River is a short drive from the lodge near Tiger Road and is worth a stop too, home to the eerie remains of an old mining dredge boat and less crowded than the main river if anyone wants a quieter cast.

Sleeps: Eight bedrooms, 13 beds (mostly kings, plus bunk beds), 8.5 bathrooms. Accommodates up to 19 guests.

Perks: Private hot tub and fire pit, half a mile of private river frontage, game room with pool table and 90-inch TV, on-site parking for 11 vehicles, dedicated workspace.

Price: From $1,407 a night.

Location: Black Hawk, Colorado

For a serene and stress-free trip to Colorado, this private ranch house Airbnb is just the one. Secluded amongst forests and mountains, there won't be a neighbor in sight – perfect for swimming nude in the swimming pool (if you fancy it). Watch the stars from the comfort of the Queen-sized bed or serenade your guests with a tune on the piano in the charming rustic character of the property. With a fully-equipped modern kitchen and bathroom with a tub, you'll struggle to leave. 

Time Out tip: Skip the casino floor for an evening and head to Central City instead, as its 1878 Opera House still stages world-class performances in a former mining town. It’s the kind of contrast Jack Kerouac wrote about in On the Road and a different side of the area most visitors never see past the slot machines.

Sleeps: One bedroom, one king bed, one bathroom. Sleeps 2.

Perks: Private swim spa hot tub, wood-burning fireplace, total seclusion on 12 acres, dedicated workspace, free parking.

Price: From $1,400 a night.

Location: Maysville, near Salida, Colorado

Colorado has a great range of unique and different Airbnb properties including… yurts. Yes, the Mongolian staple isn’t an uncommon sight on the horizon round these parts, which is why we felt it was important to include at least one of this list. This one is at the more high-end of the yurt scale, with an interior featuring some very comforting home comforts. Like a beautiful sideboard, a selection of framed artworks and a very cosy bedroom. Head outside for evenings around the firepit and slowly but surely fall in love with this place.

Time Out tip: Skip the standard Monarch Pass viewpoint and take the Monarch Crest Scenic Tramway to the top instead, ten minutes up for a 360-degree view of the Sawatch Range, and yes, it’s the same stretch of road used in Fast and Furious 7 if you want to spot the scenery. 

Sleeps: One bedroom, two beds (a queen plus a sofa bed), one bathroom. Sleeps 4.

Perks: Barrel sauna, wraparound deck with mountain views, well water on tap, record player and retro Nintendo, blackout curtains and a sound machine in the bedroom.

Price: From $300 a night.

Location: Black Forest, near Colorado Springs

Colorado, in case you hadn’t got the memo yet, really does have some incredible Airbnbs. This self-sustaining, off-grid Earthship home in the Black Forest area just up from Colorado Springs combines 1970s hippy-ism with a more contemporary ‘wellness’ aura. It’s a passive solar house that is heated via thermal mass and the sun, and was entirely made from recycled materials. If that in itself doesn’t already have you feeling spiritually better, the superb plant-filled interiors and surrounding five acres of pine forest will surely do the trick. Big thumbs up for this baby.

Time Out tip: ‘The forest,’ as locals call it, is a tight-knit community of mostly mom-and-pop businesses, so skip the chains and head to Black Forest Foods, a European-inflected deli and smokehouse known for having the best burgers around. It's also worth timing a visit around Memorial Day weekend, when the community's bluegrass festival takes over for three days of live local music.

Sleeps: Two bedrooms (fully open concept, no doors, by design for the heating system), three beds (a king, a queen and a sofa bed), one bathroom. Sleeps 6 guests.

Perks: Handcrafted from recycled materials, filtered well water, propane fireplace and pellet stove, dedicated workspace, dog friendly with a $100 pet fee.

Price: From $310 a night.

Location: Boulder, Colorado

This bespoke Boulder house is a one-of-a-kind Airbnb in Colorado. Barrett House is nestled in 7,000ft across three acres of a mountain peak in Roosevelt National Forest. This property features high ceilings adorned with skylights, open-plan living spaces, and high-end luxuries including an 80" screen in the theatre room, a well-equipped games room, and a Bose sound system for partying through the night. Other amenities include Smart TVs, spa jet showers, and heated flooring. After a day spent in nature, head onto the private balcony for alfresco dining and a midnight dip in the hot tub. 

Time Out tip: Skip the obvious Chautauqua trailhead and drive up Flagstaff Road to Lost Gulch Overlook. It‘s a short, steep hike that rewards you with a Continental Divide view most visitors never quite find. Arrive before 8am if you can as parking is limited and permit-based, but it's definitely worth setting an early alarm for.

Sleeps: Three bedrooms, four beds (two queens plus two doubles in the loft), three bathrooms. Sleeps 6 guests.

Perks: Private hot tub, theatre room with 80-inch screen, spa-like en-suite with heated flooring, dedicated workspace, free three-car driveway parking.

Price: From $773 a night.

Location: Tabernash, Colorado

Looking for an iconic Airbnb in Colorado's mountains? This custom-built log cabin in Tabernash might just be the one. Catering for up to 10 guests across three bedrooms and a loft (yes, it's possible), and two bathrooms, Miles Behind Log Cabin is a truly idyllic place to spend a family vacation. Built off the grid in 1998, this is remote eco-living at its best – don't stress, there's still wifi. Other amenities include a wood-burning stove, pool and foosball tables, an outdoor hot tub, and a large wooden deck with a variety of outdoor features. Just know that you'll need a 4x4 to get here when the snow is high.

Time Out tip: Book a table at Tabernash Tavern. It’s a hidden gem that’s picked up Best Restaurant in Grand County and Best Fine Dining, with a Wine Spectator-winning list to match. It’s ten minutes from the cabin and reservations are essential.

Sleeps: Three bedrooms plus loft, six listed beds (a king, a queen, a bunk with trundle, and two doubles in the loft). Sleeps 10 guests.

Perks: Private outdoor hot tub, pool and foosball tables, wood-burning stove, pet friendly (up to 3), free parking on 40 private acres.

Price: From $715 a night.

Location: Breckenridge, Colorado

This is one of Airbnb’s ‘luxe’ properties and, man, does it live up to the name. A Breckenridge villa with crammed with the exact type of ‘little extras’ that very quickly feel like they’re essential parts of domestic life. We’re talking boot warmers for your ski shoes, a saltwater hot tub and superb outdoor kitchen facilities. Understandably, it’s a perfect place to book with a huge family group and there’s a great family room with pool table and wet bar to help keep people entertained. You’re also very close to all the amenities, including restaurants, in town.

Time Out tip: Aurum Food & Wine is apparently where Breckenridge locals take out-of-town guests when they want to impress them. It’s a contemporary American small plates joint, in a warm, golden-lit room. It’s easy to walk past if you don’t know to look for it.

Sleeps: Seven bedrooms, ten beds (mostly kings, plus a queen-over-queen bunk room), 7.5 bathrooms. Sleeps 16+ guests.

Perks: Private saltwater hot tub, outdoor pizza oven, ski storage with boot warmers, pool table and wet bar, free parking for two vehicles.

Price: From $2842 a night.

Location: Blue River, near Breckenridge, Colorado.

As slick as a fox, who wouldn't want to snuggle up and get cozy in this designer A-frame? It's unreal. Only a short distance from Main Street, Mohawk Lakes, and Quandry Peak, it's a chic, boho-inspired nest in the woods for up to six guests. Unique elements like the black spiral staircase, A-frame nook, hanging egg chair, and furry furnishings add heaps of sophistication and comfort. We love it. Aside from the gorgeous deck and a helpful stash of board games, You'll find a lot to keep you busy in Breckenridge. Hit the slopes at Breck's Ski Resort, just five minutes away, or head to Main Street for a little wine and dine at the Hearthstone Restaurant. Spoiler alert: whatever you get up to, you won't want to leave. 

Time Out tip: Boreas Pass gets very busy on a summer weekend, so go on a weekday instead. It’s only 10 minutes from the cabin and one of the best scenic drives in Summit County for wildflowers and old railway history.

Sleeps: Two bedrooms plus a spacious loft, two bathrooms. Sleeps 6 guests.

Perks: Private on-site parking for five cars, gas fireplace, full kitchen with new Samsung appliances, high-speed wifi, five minutes from downtown Breckenridge.

Price: From $421 a night.

Location: Nathrop, near Buena Vista, Colorado

This unique home in Colorado Springs doesn’t just boast its own inside hot springs mineral pool, it boasts the ONLY inside hot springs mineral pool in the state of Colorado (unless someone has one hiding somewhere they’re not telling us about). You’ll be staying in a large, vintage geodesic dome with amazing internal features including a sweeping staircase and upper level for sleeping on, plus a massive stone fireplace and leather armchairs. Truly, this place is one of a kind and also comes with an in-ground pool and corner jacuzzi.

Time Out tip: Drive the Chalk Creek road out to the St Elmo ghost town, a well-preserved 1880s mining settlement with a still-standing general store, about 25 minutes from the dome. The road turns to well-graded dirt partway along, and the aspen groves either side are spectacular in late September if you can time it right.

Sleeps: Three bedrooms (open-plan), four beds (two kings, two singles), three bathrooms. Sleeps 6 guests maximum, a hard cap set by Chaffee County.

Perks: Free-flowing private mineral hot springs pool, moss-rock fireplace, Starlink wifi, five wooded acres with trailhead access right outside the door.

Price: From $1,044 a night.

Hike over the river and through the woods and you'll arrive at this actual treehouse that's supported by 100-ft-tall spruce trees. Despite being nestled in the forest, you'll enjoy a full kitchen, a bath with a stone shower, a sleeping loft with skylights to view the stars, and best of all, two tree-top terraces to relax in a hammock or by the fire. Situated on two acres, you'll be away from it all with the added bonus of being close to artsy Carbondale or Glenwood with its famous hot springs.

What’s the budget range? A little pricier than usual but well worth it for a magical family holiday. 

What's it like to stay here: A charming little handbuilt hideaway with a private mountain garden - you can't go wrong. 

Rooms: 3 beds, 2 beds, sleeps 8. 

This spaceship-like home is both an idyllic rural escape and a gob-smacking architectural masterpiece. With vast windows with which to gaze out at the surrounding aspen forest and dozens of ingenious design features, this place is just outside Telluride, a picture-perfect 19th-century mining town.

What’s the budget range? A little lavish, but well worth the splurge for the scenery. 

What’s it like to stay here? Dear we say, gobsmacking views of the famous Wilson’s Peaks. 

Rooms: 3 beds, 2 baths. Sleeps 8. 

Just look at that building. Ain’t it freakin’ beautiful? Too right it is. This flat occupies the top floor, offering unrivaled vintage vibes coupled with a swathe of modern comforts. And the location isn’t bad either: here you’re right on the doorstep of some of the most historic and fascinating bits of Colorado Springs. 

What’s the budget range? This sleek pad is yours to enjoy for a decent rate.

What’s it like to stay here? Being in the heart of Colorado in this comfy apartment 

Rooms: 2 beds, 1 bath. Sleeps 6.

Lupine Village gives you the best of both worlds: you get the mountains and the lake at this collection of six cabins that's been welcoming adventurous travelers since the 1930s. The space includes a kitchen and a dining and living area and the decor carries a quaint, nostalgic lake house theme throughout. A shared fire pit seating area is perfect for s'mores and yard games – and you're just steps from Grand Lake's boardwalk village and outdoor recreation options.

What’s the budget range? This one’s got affordability in the bucket.

What’s it like to stay here? You’ll love this interior decked out in wooden paneling - a classic touch.

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath. Sleeps 4. 

It wouldn’t be the perfect trip to Colorado without literally staying in a 1958 Airstream camper trailer, right in the middle of endless mountains. This Colorado Airbnb is a truly unique experience, tucked away in the red rock canyons and hidden under a huge Juniper tree. Hide away from the rest of the world in this camper for two (or one) and spend your days hiking into the Canyon of the Ancients National Monument. 

What’s the budget range? A budget-friendly vacay for a couple of adventurers.

What’s it like to stay here?  This desert terrain is the perfect excuse to stargaze, explore ancient ruins, go hiking, or even mountain biking.

Rooms: 1 bed, 1 bath, Sleeps 2.

Now, this is where you head for breathtaking views of Colorado Springs. This stunningly huge home sits just on the edge of Cheyenne Mountain and is surrounded by alpine trees for absolute natural bliss. Though in case you do miss the city's twinkling lights, you'll find all the panoramas you need on the other side of the house. The space boasts a grand hall, an indoor hot tub, and pool, a home gym, a home cinema, and much more. It literally has everything you could want out of a vacation rental for larger groups. There are also cool add-ons like the Murder Mystery Dinner Party for a truly spectacular time up in the Springs.

What’s the budget range? A pretty affordable five-night stay when you split the bill.

What’s it like to stay here? Like trading lives with Jay Gatsby.

Rooms: 6 beds, 6.5 baths. Sleeps 14.