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By Linda DuVal
Grand Junction B&Bs offer intimate, relaxing getaways for couples
Grand Junction B&Bs offer intimate, relaxing getaways for couples
Autumn in Grand Junction brings the harvest of peaches, apples and wine grapes, with warm, sunny days and crisp, cool nights inspiring the annual burst of leafy color. Hike the Colorado National Monument together, play golf, go biking or visit the state's best and oldest wineries. Then, settle in and unwind at a cozy, charming bed & breakfast.

Several B&Bs are tucked into the Grand Valley landscape, all perfect for a fall getaway that rekindles the romance.

The Royal Treatment
Five spacious suites pamper guests at Castle Creek Bed-and-Breakfast, which offers 500-square-foot rooms, king beds, private baths with jet tubs, and private outside entrances. "We put in everything we like when we travel," says LeeAnn Unfred, who opened the inn in 2004 with husband Ron. Try the spa package (with in-room massages) or the anniversary package (with dinner for two). Enjoy the breakfast buffet with other guests, take a plate to your room or sit on the deck and listen to the creek.

Among the Vineyards
Ever want to stay in a vineyard? The Chateau at Two Rivers Winery, built in 2002, has 10 elegantly appointed rooms and a broad veranda, overlooking the vines, where you can enjoy your morning coffee and sample the buffet. In the wine-tasting room, sample the vineyard's award-winning vintages before buying a souvenir bottle. Fall is a great time to come because you can see the wine being made.

Views & Vows
Los Altos Bed and Breakfast sits on a hill overlooking the Grand Valley, thus its name and its appeal. It feels far removed from the city, says Young Ja Garrett, who runs the B&B with her husband, Lee. Two of its seven rooms are suites ideal for second honeymoons. Both the traditional bridal suite and the contemporary executive suite have two-person tubs and fireplaces; the bridal suite also has a captain's walk. They'll even help you arrange everything from your bridal bouquet
Autumn is ripe with scenery, from vineyards and orchards to canyons and mesas
Autumn is ripe with scenery, from vineyards and orchards to canyons and mesas
to an officiator with their elopement package. Though the spa package (complete with a couples massage) is very popular, Garrett says the golf package may be the top seller. The property sits right on the 10th hole of the Redlands Mesa Golf Course.

Country Appeal
A simple 1916 farmhouse is the setting for Willow Pond Bed and Breakfast. Dubbing itself a "country setting in town," on an acre of land, it feels secluded. And with only three rooms, there are fewer guests, too. Uncluttered country-style rooms include private baths with jet tubs and showers. Breakfasts often feature co-owner Laurie Lester's award-winning jams and fruit toppings – a delicious way to start the day. Before breakfast, stroll to the old willow tree and pond. Later, plan to pair up with your special someone for an onsite cooking class or wine-tasting.

Secluded Retreat
Hidden away on seven secluded acres in nearby Clifton, the Mount Garfield Bed & Breakfast has four suites in its newly remodeled 5,000-square-foot country home. Unwind in the massage chair in the reading room or have a personal massage. Fall evenings are an especially great time to stroll the peach orchard, savor the sunset and cozy up to the fire pit on the back patio. Depending on when you visit, breakfast may include peaches fresh from the orchard.

Starry Nights
Near the Colorado River in Palisade, Vistas and Vineyards has its own orchards and vineyard, as well as views of the dramatic Book Cliffs. Four guest rooms – with queen or king beds and private baths – feature a relaxed décor with an accent on local arts and crafts. Weekdays, they serve an expanded continental breakfast, and weekends bring out the gourmet dishes. Autumn nights are perfect for relaxing on the deck, enjoying the crisp, cool air and stargazing.

IF YOU GO:
Castle Creek Bed-and-Breakfast, 970-241-9105, www.castlecreekbandb.com
The Chateau at Two Rivers Winery, 970-241-3155, 866-312-9463, www.tworiverswinery.com
Los Altos Bed and Breakfast, 970-256-0964, 888-774-0982, www.losaltosgrandjunction.com
Willow Pond Bed and Breakfast, 970-243-4958, 877-243-4958, www.grandjunctioncoloradobedandbreakfast.com
Mount Garfield Bed & Breakfast, 800-246-2480, www.mtgarfieldbnb.com
Vistas and Vineyards, 970-464-7478, www.vistasandvineyards.com
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