Inside The Broadmoor, Colorado Springs’ iconic hotel

Since it opened in 1918, The Broadmoor has captivated rock stars, presidents and royalty with its harmonious blend of historic charm and modern opulence. Around every corner is evidence of the hotel’s storied past. Walk down one hallway and you’ll even stumble across the Penrose Trophy, the cup awarded to the winner of the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Such treasures are displayed without fuss or commotion, though should you ask staff the way to the Maxfield Parrish painting of the hotel, for example, they’ll gladly show you, armed with a brief history and explanation of its aspect en route.

Rooms and suites are similarly steeped in the hotel’s heritage and exude a sense of timeless comfort, all without skimping on the usual mod cons. Grand marble en suites and vast mahogany writing desks topped with leather? Tick. Smart entertainment, high-speed wifi and the comfiest mattresses this side of Nod? Tick. Rooms carry echoes of a bygone era while still ensuring that you can always change the temperature by half a degree if you want, or order room service using nothing but your TV remote.

For those more interested in moving their muscles, the resort offers an array of activities as expansive as its mountainous backdrop. It sports two world-class golf courses and will be hosting the 2025 US Senior Open. The adventurous can explore the surrounding Rockies via itineraries that include zip-lining, hiking, biking, rock climbing and horse riding. Those looking to soak in the views without breaking a sweat can take the cog railway up to Pikes Peak or stay at the resort’s all-inclusive mountain hideaway, Cloud Camp. And if none of the above appeals, how about a bit of falconry, pickleball or fly fishing?

If you prefer pure relaxation, the internationally renowned spa has a range of restorative treatments tailored to each guest. There are also steam rooms, oxygen rooms, and dry saunas enclosed by pink Himalayan salt walls. Each offers a hit of indulgence, although the simple pleasures of a fireplace lounge aren’t to be overlooked.

Dining at any one of The Broadmoor’s many restaurants (including its own bowling-alley eatery) focuses on high-quality local and seasonal produce. Wagyu steak comes from the owner’s private ranch, much of the veg on the menu is from the hotel gardens and the 75 different types of bread are made on site by a ‘brigade’ of bakers.

It’s this heady mix of history, adventure, warm hospitality and unadulterated luxury that makes The Broadmoor such a unique stay, not to mention a truly unforgettable escape.

Booking information: Doubles from around £195 per night, plus a daily resort charge of £31.50; broadmoor.com