Strater Hotel: A Historic Victorian Gem on the Colorado High Country Route
- A landmark Victorian hotel in the heart of downtown Durango, established in 1887.
- Features 88 uniquely decorated rooms with authentic period furnishings.
- Home to the Diamond Belle Saloon, a famous Old West-style bar with live music.
- The Mahogany Grille offers fine dining with a focus on steak and seafood.
- An ideal stop for drivers on the Colorado High Country drive pack, offering both luxury and history.
- On-site parking is available, a crucial amenity for road trippers.
- The hotel is rumored to be haunted, adding a layer of mystique to your stay.
- Expect an $18 historic preservation fee per night.
The Jewel of the Animas River Valley
The final miles of the San Juan Skyway unwind, the Million Dollar Highway’s thrilling twists and turns giving way to the welcoming grid of Durango. As your engine cools with a satisfying tick, the afternoon sun glints off a magnificent red brick façade, a structure that seems pulled from the very heart of the Old West. This is the Strater Hotel, a Victorian-era landmark that has been welcoming travelers since 1887. For the discerning driver completing a leg of the Colorado High Country drive pack, the Strater isn’t just a place to rest; it’s a destination in itself, a seamless continuation of the historic and scenic journey you’ve been on.
The Driver's Arrival
Arriving at the Strater is an experience. You pull off Main Avenue, the vibrant heart of Durango, and the hotel’s grandeur immediately commands your attention. Valet parking is a welcome sight for any road-weary driver, eliminating the hassle of finding a spot in the bustling downtown. Stepping from behind the wheel of your modern performance machine into the hotel lobby is a delightful temporal shift. The air is thick with the scent of polished wood and history. You are surrounded by the largest collection of American Victorian walnut antiques in the world, intricate carvings and plush fabrics transporting you to the Gilded Age. The friendly greeting from the staff reminds you that while the surroundings are historic, the hospitality is warm and contemporary.
A Room with a History
No two of the Strater’s 88 guest rooms are alike. Each is a carefully curated space, a testament to the hotel’s commitment to historical authenticity. Our room featured a magnificent hand-carved walnut bed, elegant period wallpaper from Bradbury & Bradbury, and heavy, ornate drapes. It’s like sleeping in a museum, but with all the modern comforts a driver needs: plush bedding, excellent Wi-Fi, and air conditioning for the warm Colorado summers. It’s the kind of room where you want to pour a whiskey, put your feet up, and simply soak in the atmosphere, reflecting on the day’s drive through the mountains.
Dining and Diversions, Old West Style
After a day of carving through canyons, the Strater offers several distinct options to satisfy your appetite and thirst. The most famous of these is the Diamond Belle Saloon. With its swinging saloon doors, honky-tonk piano, and costumed servers, it’s a boisterous and entertaining step back in time. It’s the perfect place to grab a local craft beer and a burger, and swap stories with fellow travelers.
For a more refined experience, the Mahogany Grille offers an elegant dining room and a menu focused on classic steakhouse fare and fresh seafood. The service is impeccable, and the atmosphere is one of quiet sophistication—a welcome contrast to the lively Saloon. We recommend the hand-cut steaks, cooked to perfection. For a quiet nightcap, The Office Spiritorium provides a cozy, intimate setting for a craft cocktail.
Practicalities for the Modern Explorer
While the Strater revels in its history, it understands the needs of the modern traveler. On-site parking is a significant plus, especially for those of us who are particular about our vehicles. Reservations are highly recommended for the Mahogany Grille, and it’s always a good idea to book your room well in advance, especially during peak season. The dress code is generally relaxed, though you’ll want to opt for smart casual at the Grille. Be aware of the nightly $18 historic preservation fee, a small price to pay for the upkeep of this incredible landmark. The hotel’s central location means all of Durango’s shops, galleries, and the historic Durango & Silverton Narrow Gauge Railroad are just a short walk away.
The Verdict
The Strater Hotel is more than just a place to stay; it’s an essential part of the Colorado experience. It offers a unique blend of history, luxury, and Western hospitality that is increasingly rare. For the driver exploring the epic roads of the Colorado High Country pack, it provides a perfect basecamp and a memorable destination. It’s a place where the spirit of the open road meets the romance of the Old West, and we can’t recommend it highly enough.
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