I would have to say that Telluride is one of the most spectacular places that I have ever been to. I have been going there to ski since I was a kid. I keep going back like something is pulling me there. Not many places do that to me. Telluride has a certain something that is not easy to put your finger on, but it is definitely there.

The town is tucked in the mountains of southwestern Colorado. The closest big town or city is either Montrose or Durango. Each are over an hour away. There is a feeling of remoteness in Telluride, but at the same time, there are plenty of services, lodging, and dining here. You won't see many chain stores or fast-food joints in Telluride. The locals really don't welcome that kind of thing. Perhaps that is why Telluride manages to keep it's charm. You'll always stay in a unique hotel, eat something you have never tried, or see a jagged mountain unlike any you have ever seen before.

Telluride is a bit more difficult to get to when you compare it to most other destination wedding locations. A lot of people fly into Durango to the south and drive up through Silverton, or they go over Lizard Head Pass which can be very interesting on a bad winter day. Flying into Montrose is an option too, and the drive from there isn't bad.

Your wedding party will be thrilled with the options for "things to do" in the Telluride area. Aside from the obvious - skiing, hiking, biking, and everything "outdoorsy" - there are some lesser known treats here as well. Just up the road, your group can soak in the natural "Orvis Hot Springs." These are beautiful, natural, outdoor hot springs about an hour from Telluride. As you soak, you'll be pleased with the spectacular mountain views that surround you. Be prepared though - they say 'clothing optional' here, so you might get more of a show than you expected, if you know what I mean.

Dining options are plentiful. From brew-pub fare like Garfinkles to the funky and charming Excelsior Cafe downtown (one of my favorite breakfast spots). There is also dining and shopping up on the mountain as well. The town runs the gondola even after the mountain closes so people can head up to the mid-mountain restaurants after a great day of skiing, or perhaps after a wedding ceremony.

There's always something fun happening in Telluride. We were there over the 4th of July weekend a few years ago, and I have to say the town parade was a hoot. There were dogs everywhere, and people dressed up in the most funky costumes. Funky - that's the word I would use to best describe Telluride. It is a world-class resort, and there is some sophistication to be found here, but over the years, it has retained the small-town funky charm that it is famous for.

I would give Telluride the big thumbs-up for a destination wedding location.