I figured I’d start a new feature giving reviews of some of my favorite Colorado wedding venues, and the Della Terra Mountain Chateau seems like a good place to start.

Location: I love Estes Park weddings. Estes Park is easy to get to, close enough to airports, has tons of lodging options, and is the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park. The Della Terra is right off the road, just seconds from the Fall River entrance of RMNP. You have the feeling of being “in the mountains” with easy access — you’re not making your guests drive 10 miles down a dirt road. (Good all times of the year, but especially in the winter!)

Feeling: Once you get in to the Della Terra, you’ll feel secluded and protected. Truly — the property is beautiful and it’s hard to believe you’re just off the road. The views from the ceremony area are perfectly Colorado: lots of evergreens, hills, mountains, rocky crags, wild turkeys and elk if you’re lucky. The ceremony site is exceptionally well set up with a large altar area, great sound system, and comfy, albeit rustic seating for your guests. The indoor reception area and surrounding decks are just as lovely, and would be perfect for an indoor ceremony as well.

Staff/Logistics: Every time I have facilitated a ceremony at the Della Terra Mountain Chataeu, I have felt completely supported by the staff. They are pros, and know what they are doing. From help parking, to the set up of the altar, to setting up the sound system, to making sure the couple and their wedding party are on time and in line, to getting guests blankets and cushions when needed… I always know I am in good hands. All this support makes a huge a difference: I can focus 100% on delivering an exquisite ceremony, and the couple does not need to feel like they need to manage anything. It is all handled.

So… thumbs up for the Della Terra Mountain Chateau, truly a lovely and quintessential Colorado wedding venue.