Surrounded by the epic beauty of the Rocky Mountains, this award winning cottage to rent in Colorado is the first internationally certified Passive House in Colorado. Entirely off-grid, the cabin immerses you in nature with minimal human intervention.
Completed in mid-2016 the cabin draws inspiration from the modest architectural designs of Japan, and has been heralded in the press as a triumph of sustainability and environmental design. Mimicking the shape of the local ‘hogback’ mountains, the structure also evokes a traditional cabin with a modernist’s sensibility.
The angular, asymmetrical silhouette faces south, with stunning, uninterrupted views of the wilderness. The two story interiors feature an open floor plan and a restrained material palette of plywood, cedar pickets, and ceramic and slate tile. The space includes a small kitchen and dining area with gorgeous views out across the valley, and a double bedroom along with a simple bathroom.
A staircase made from wooden boxes anchors the elongated living room, with a small loft that features a net bed, giving kids or adults a place to nest while providing daylight and an acoustic and visual connection with the main floor. Wide window ledges provide intimate break out spaces for taking it all in.
A showcase for stylish, low-impact living, this Rocky Mountain retreat reconnects you with nature, where less always equals more.
ADDITIONAL FEATURES
Enjoy a digital detox here with no cell phone service (landline available for emergencies) and Wifi only on request. Music however, can enhance most experiences and there is an in-wall Bluetooth stereo and iPod dock. Bicycles and kayak available for guests use. Housekeeping, daily breakfast and barbecues on request. 4×4 car rental recommended.
AROUND
Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, high plains and foothills are home to vast stretches of wilderness and a seemingly endless network of interconnecting trails that wind through the rugged peaks and forests and across the tundra. With mild Springs and Summers that encourage rambling exploration, winter sport is also a big draw, with Telemark skiing and mellower, cross country or snowshoe treks up to the the alpine lakes.
Wildlife is just outside your door with vast expanses of habitat for spotting black bears, Elk, deer, bobcats and raptors in Estes Park – the gateway to the Rocky Mountains. In milder temps head up to nearby Horsetooth Falls, or the less challenging Bobcat Ridge with gorgeous views through the ‘keyhole’ and its rivers and reservoir. The nearby Poudre River trail traverses the western foothills through to the eastern plains that borders domestic farms and vineyards on its outskirts.
There’s plenty of great local eats, a booming craft beer scene, fun Summer music fests, galleries and shops in nearby Loveland for a little civilization if the mood strikes.
LOCATION
Loveland, Colorado. Nearest Airport: Denver International (75 miles)
BEST TIME TO VISIT: An all-season adventure wonderland, Summers are warm and mild, with crisp Autumns, fresh Springs and spectacular snowfall in winter.
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