Denver is the 'Mile High City' and boasts an impressive average of 300 days sunshine a year. The Rocky mountains dominate and 200 named peaks surround this lively city. Stroll the tree lined boulevards and city parks and observe the combination of Victorian and contemporary architecture.

At the edge of Rocky Mountain National Park lies Estes Park where The Shining was filmed - stay at The Stanley Hotel the inspiration for the story if you dare. Boasting 191 craggy peaks (most of them are a staggering 10,000ft) the dizzying scenes are breathtaking. Longs Peak stands an amazing 14,255ft dominantly surveying lush valleys and shimmering alpine lakes.

Aspen, Breckenridge and Vail are a skier's paradise but during summer months the valleys overflow with waterfalls and wildflowers. North West lies the healing Glenwood Hots Springs discovered by the Ute Indians who believed it would heal their wounds.

The history of the Native Americans is especially strong in South West Colorado where cities were built in sandstone and the Ute Indians farmed, hunted and still live. The cliff dwellings of ancient pueblo people are showcased at Mesa Verde National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Eerily abandoned these ghostly ruins are said to be over 700 years old.

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