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From the towering Collegiate Peaks to the scenic Arkansas River, Buena Vista’s backdrop is a jaw-dropper top to bottom.
Plus, with the town’s laid-back mountain town vibes and some of the state’s best access to outdoor recreation in any direction of the compass, this is one Colorado town where you’ll want to spend more than a few days.
Luckily, you can kick back and soak in that Rocky Mountain high from any one of these rustic Buena Vista cabins.
Related Read: 12 Extraordinary Cabin Rentals in Colorado
1. Riverfront Retreat
Why you should stay: Enjoy an outdoor playground right in your backyard.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum Stay: 2-3 nights
- Rates from: $201/night
The luxurious Riverfront Retreat does “log cabin” style right. From the spacious, sunny rooms to the wood-bedecked interior, the home is both cozy and modern. Plus, the decor is on point. And while the inside spaces are certainly worth the price of admission, the private hot tub and wraparound porch overlooking the Arkansas River will likely take the prize for everyone’s favorite spot.
Pack your fly rod or fishing reel for some backyard angling in the Arkansas. You can also access nearby hiking or mountain biking trails directly from the property. Or take a short jaunt down the road to pick up some ATV trails for motorized fun. The cabin also is located close to downtown Buena Vista. Should you not feel like cooking — or if you simply want to treat yourself to a cold brew after a day out adventuring — you have your pick of local restaurants and breweries.
Check Availability“We loved our stay at this cabin. The jacuzzi was perfect in the snow. Great views of Mt Princeton.”
Related Read: 9 Cozily Romantic Stays Near Denver, Colorado
2. Adventurer’s Hideaway
Why you should stay: A cute cabin within walking distance of downtown.
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum Stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $191/night
If you want a convenient spot that will put you right in the middle of downtown Buena Vista, the Adventurer’s Hideaway is hard to beat. And even though it looks unassuming (and not entirely cabin-like) from the outside, once you step inside, you’ll be greeted with cozy touches that give it some authentic cabin ambiance. From the two log walls to the wooden beams and stone fireplace, this hideaway has plenty of rustic charm.
From the home, you can easily walk downtown to grab a coffee, get a bite, or do some window shopping at the stores and art galleries. If you love catching some whitewater, the world-class Buena Vista Whitewater Park welcomes kayakers and rafters to paddle the Arkansas River. If a more mellow afternoon out is more your speed, the park is also a great spot to picnic, sunbathe, or find a quiet eddy to stick your toes in the water.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Relaxing Cabin Rentals in Breckenridge, Colorado
3. Designer Cozy Cabin
Why you should stay: Designer digs in a prime spot for Buena Vista adventuring.
- Sleeps: 8
- Minimum Stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $495/night
This cool cabin doesn’t neglect the details, and you’re sure to feel pampered after a stay at this cozy escape. From the sunny backyard with views of the Collegiate Peaks to the bright, inviting living spaces, this home delivers up plenty to delight during your stay. Plus, you’re close to downtown should you desire to walk over and check out the hip scene on South Main Street.
In addition to all the nearby outdoor recreation, you can also complement your stay at this cozy cabin with a day out soaking at the hot springs. Nearby Mount Princeton Hot Springs offers a spa-style getaway where you can spend a relaxing day soaking up all that mountain scenery. Open year-round, the hot springs are especially a treat on a cold winter’s day.
Check Availability“This property is gorgeous! The owner has paid attention to every detail. Perfect property and location for a girls’ getaway or a family vacation.”
Related Read: 7 Incredible Glamping Destinations Near Denver, Colorado
4. The Vista Haus
Why you should stay: Come for the cabin, stay for the views.
- Sleeps: 9
- Minimum Stay: 2 nights
- Rates from: $289/night
The custom Vista Haus is the perfect home for a family retreat. You’ll quickly see how the cabin got its name too, as the stunning views of Mt. Princeton across the valley will quickly become the highlight of your stay. The cabin is located a few miles outside of Buena Vista, within easy driving distance of enough activities to keep you busy for your entire vacation.
In the winter, head to nearby Monarch Mountain to carve some groomers or, if you’re lucky, catch some fresh powder. In the summer, the Arkansas River beckons for fishing and rafting — book a half or full-day guided whitewater raft trip to see spectacular Brown’s Canyon National Monument up close. At the end of a day out exploring, you can put your feet up on the cabin deck to catch a sunset vista you won’t soon forget.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 10 Gorgeous Cabin Rentals in Grand Lake, Colorado
5. The Inn Between
Why you should stay: Log-home livin’ with incredible mountain views out every window.
- Sleeps: 10
- Minimum Stay: 3 nights
- Rates from: $648/night
If you want a Buena Vista cabin retreat that the whole family will love, The Inn Between should definitely be on your radar. From the stunning great room and top-chef-worthy kitchen to the exquisitely log-filled finish out (check out that staircase!), this cabin has some special touches. Plus, the view from the back deck with your own private hot tub isn’t too shabby either. For an added bonus, do some stargazing on a clear night for a view of the Milky Way stretching above the peaks.
If you do want to leave the privacy of your five-acre retreat, you are a short drive from downtown Buena Vista or the nearby town of Salida. If bagging some peaks is on your to-do list, this luxury stay offers a prime basecamp for you to explore the Collegiate Peaks Wilderness which boasts eight 14ers (peaks that top out with a summit above 14,000 feet in elevation). You can stay below the treeline too if summits aren’t your thing. The area has plenty of trails and different terrain to explore.
Check Availability“What an outstanding home and location for our family’s weekend getaway to Buena Vista. Access to the mountains, the river, and downtown BV was all easy and close, though the location felt secluded and private.”
Related Read: 11 Outstanding Cabin Rentals Near Pagosa Springs, Colorado
6. Secluded Buena Vista Cabin
Why you should stay: A secluded spot with plenty of opportunities for outdoorsy adventure.
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum Stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $249/night
If you want a private getaway tucked in the woods, this secluded cabin delivers with plenty of style and charm. The open floor plan and modern finish ensure you’ll feel right at home whether you’re snuggling up by the wood fireplace with a book or sipping your morning cuppa joe on the front porch. Thanks to the cabin’s secluded location you might even spot some wildlife neighbors making their rounds, too.
Regardless of the season, you’ll have your choice of activities. Head out hiking, climbing, or mountain biking in the summer. For winter adventures, you can pack your snowshoes for a tromp around the woods. Or bring your downhill gear to hit up Monarch or Copper Mountain. If you find yourself wanting to wander farther abroad than downtown Buena Vista, the historic town of Leadville is less than an hour’s drive away.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 13 Secluded Cabin Rentals in Colorado for Remote Getaways
7. Rustic Log Cabin
Why you should stay: Unwind and unplug at this authentic log cabin escape.
- Sleeps: 6
- Minimum Stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $250/night
Looking for a cozy cabin with some serious Lincoln Log vibes? This rustic log cabin delivers right down to the green roof and chunky log interior accents. And the modern furnishings give you all the creature comforts you could want. Altogether, this cabin is perfect for a quick weekend getaway or staying a good, long while.
From the two-acre forested property, you can soak up the views or simply enjoy the peaceful setting. Of course, you have access to all the hiking, biking, paddling, fishing, hunting, and exploring you could possibly want to fill your Buena Vista vacation. But if kicking back and doing nothing sounds more appealing, this cabin can deliver on the R&R, too.
Check AvailabilityRelated Read: 11 Beautiful National Forests in Colorado for Outdoor Recreation
8. Valley View Cabin
Why you should stay: An adorable cabin with all the right modern conveniences.
- Sleeps: 4
- Minimum Stay: 1 night
- Rates from: $210/night
Don’t be fooled by the outside of this cute little cabin. Though the log and stone exterior might bring to mind the frontier days, the cabin has been thoroughly updated on the inside giving you the best of both old and new worlds. Plus, it’s conveniently located in a quiet neighborhood close to downtown Buena Vista.
If you feel inspired by your historic-looking cabin digs to learn more of the local history, hit up the Buena Vista Heritage Museum for some fun facts about the area. Then head out to the St. Elmo Ghost Town for an even more immersive historical experience.
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Seen in: Cabins, Colorado, Rockies, West, Where to Stay, Where to Stay in Colorado
