The Better House

Dunton Hot Springs sits as a restored 1800s ghost town just across the mountain from Telluride, offering an exclusive retreat deep within the San Juan Mountains. The property transforms a historic mining camp into a luxury resort where hand-hewn log cabins feature exquisitely furnished interiors and high-speed wireless internet. Guests access the site’s defining natural feature through a large outdoor pool fed by tectonic hot springs, which include a unique tepid sulfuric geyser that bubbles approximately every 45 minutes. The resort caters to both day visitors and overnight guests through various packages, while the entire town becomes available for exclusive rental during corporate retreats, family reunions, and weddings. Dining and socializing occur in a life-worn saloon known for serving high-quality food, and business needs are met with video conferencing facilities located in the dance hall. The landscape offers lung-torturing trails for hiking, followed by relaxation in the warming waters or through pampering massages. The town’s history dates back to its establishment in 1885, with the Emma Mine driving its peak population around 1905 before abandonment in 1918. Current owners purchased the property in 1994 and spent seven years renovating the structures, preserving the rustic charm of the original log buildings while adding modern amenities.