Are you and your mate adventure seekers? If hiking, biking, skiing, snowboarding and horseback riding sound fun to the two of you, take your honeymoon out West to a picturesque scene of sky and mountains. Colorado is definitely a place to visit if you want to get back to nature and remember how to enjoy the simple moments in life. Although Colorado has rough terrain, you and your hubby can take this adventure as much to the extreme as you want. Maybe the softer side of Colorado is what you're really after.

So Many Trails Lead to Romance

When you get into the higher altitudes of Colorado, there's really no wrong choice in accommodations, because you can relish in the expansive view from almost anywhere. Maybe the best way to choose your accommodation is to determine how active you want to be. Are you going to hibernate in your hotel and let romance take its course, or do you want a ski in and ski out resort that enables you and your mate to fly by the seat of your pants?

Vail Plaza Hotel & Club has an Alpine-inspired lobby, and their rooms are elegant and luxurious. Fine dining is close by in the hotel, which features two restaurants and Bacco's Lounge. If you don't want to stray to far away from your hotel, you can walk around Vail Village. For relaxation and romance, visit the Sorrento Spa and enjoy the outdoor pool and hot tubs. Another popular tourist spot that has skiing nearby is Breckenridge, which has various accommodations, restaurants, bars and shops all within walking distance.

Maybe a peaceful log cabin by the riverfront is more your style. Book your honeymoon stay at Hart's Rocky Mountain Retreat, and you can enjoy the beautiful San Juan range of the Rocky Mountains. This area is known for its wilderness, hot springs and cozy cabins. You can choose to roast marshmallows and stay warm by the fire or explore the back country in a 4 wheel drive vehicle.

If you really want to get back to nature, stay at the Silver Mountain Guest Ranch, which has 160 acres of privately owned property. Your surroundings will be breathtaking, because the National Forest and Colorado State Wildlife Reserve surround the area. The nearby lake and gazebo would be a perfect spot for afternoon picnics.

The Magic of Snow-capped Mountains

When you're in the presence of a majestic landscape, peace and serenity is a part of the packaged deal. Getting back to a sense of calm might be exactly what the two of you need, because planning and preparing for the perfect wedding is a lot of work and stress. Below are some of the things you can experience in this magnificent state.

Obviously, your hotel or cabin's fireplace is always a romantic option. All you need is champagne, strawberries, whip cream and maybe some marshmallows to set the mood. Then you can cuddle up with your baby and kiss your cares away, literally.

Or you could get to know the "Old West" by finding the cowboy and cowgirl inside the two of you. You can either explore by horseback ride or sit back and relax in a chuck wagon suppers, stagecoach or wagon. Train rides are also available within 60 miles of Hart's Rocky Mountain Retreat if you choose to stay there.

Other options include gambling at a local casino such as the Ute Mountain Casino in Towaoc, Colorado, or you can visit some museums like the Buffalo Bill Museum & Grave and tour interesting geologic sites.

When the Snow is Not for You

You don't have to love winter to enjoy Colorado. You can enjoy some of the same activities and even more when it's spring and summer in this state. For instance, you can go hiking, biking, horseback riding, golfing, fishing and swimming. There are also more concerts and outdoor events that you can attend during the warmer season. So if you only know the bitter cold side of Colorado, get to know it's softer side.

Colorado is the perfect fit if you're looking for romance and action. This state can bring out your wild side and remind you of what's important. Holding each other and admiring the mountain range might be what your heart and mind is longing for.

-- Marina Hanes