  | In among the great red stones of Garden of the Gods is the lush green sanctuary of Glen Eyrie. Various religious groups use the grounds for conferences, but individuals and families are welcome to stay at the castle or in one of the other lodgings, and the service is 4.0 hotel quality. Glen Eyrie was the dream home of General William Jackson Palmer, founder of Colorado Springs. It was the third of his houses on the property, built in 1904. He lived there with his wife, who he affectionately referred to as Queen, until her unfortunate illness and untimely death in England. The early morning glow of the rock formations is best witnessed from the stoop of one of the more economically-priced rooms. These cabins come in various shapes and sizes, and walking to and from them is reminiscent of being at camp. Evenings are most enjoyable inside the castle, ideally with a rainstorm to set the mood. You will be treated to many delights as you follow the carefully planned paths meandering through the emerald green lawns that line the valley. You may also come across a Bighorn sheep or a wild turkey. If the manicured grounds are too pleasant, a rugged ridge behind the property rises up to reveal an excellent hiking trail. There is a wonderful reward at the end of it, but you need to get started early in the day to avoid being eaten by a Mountain lion when the sun dips beyond the ridge. The valley is cast into darkness in a manner that can be quite alarming if you're not prepared for it. Other small animals make their homes in Glen Eyrie, such as semi-transparent bunnies that present themselves to be your Spirit animal at dawn. No, really, it is simply that magical. |
COLORADO, USA
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