If you’ve been craving a summer weekend that feels like a little slice of paradise, let me introduce you to Palisade, Colorado.

This charming Western Slope town is a true hidden gem. I’ve been to Napa before, and I’ll say it: Palisade blew me away even more. Between the views, the wine, the peaches (!!!), and the relaxed pace of life, it’s the perfect Colorado summer getaway especially in July, when everything is ripe and blooming.

Here’s how I spent a dreamy weekend in Palisade with the fam.

Where to Stay: TWP Winery Farmhouse

This was hands-down the highlight of the trip.

We had the entire TWP Winery Farmhouse to ourselves for the weekend, and it honestly felt like a private luxury retreat. It sleeps 8 and is just 10 minutes from most wineries, but once you’re there, you feel totally tucked away.

There’s a pond out back with paddleboards and a pedalboat, hammocks, goats, peacocks, and the kind of mesa view that makes you want to sit outside and pop a bottle.

The home itself is beautifully designed with South African–inspired decor and tons of thoughtful touches. It’s hosted by Shari and Edwin, who are incredibly warm and welcoming. They made us breakfast both mornings – fresh, homemade, and way better than anything we could’ve picked up in town.

If you stay here or if you’re just planning to visit, make sure to reserve their wine tasting experience. It’s a curated tasting board paired with their wines, and it ended up being one of our favorite meals of the whole trip.

Winery Hopping by E-Bike

One of the best ways to explore the area is by e-bike. We rented from Palisade Cycle and rode along the Fruit and Wine Byway. It’s basically a scenic backroad lined with orchards and wineries. The bikes come with saddlebags, which is key if you’re stocking up on bottles like we were.

Here’s where we stopped:

• Carboy Winery – Peaceful second-story patio, great view of the mesa, and the friendliest winery pup!

• Colterris – The outdoor seating is beautiful with a vineyard and mesa view. Or, do a tour and you’ll get to drink wine in their wine cave!

• Sauvage Spectrum – Very cool spot with a wine blending lab (yes, you can make your own custom blend). Saturdays have brunch and a live DJ!

• The Ordinary Fellow – I could’ve hung out here all day. Such a cool space, and if you do a tour you’ll get to taste wine straight out of the barrel.

• Bookcliff Vineyards – Set a little higher up than others, with stunning 360-degree views of the mesas. I’d come here around golden hour if you can.

• Restoration Vineyards– Live music, shaded lawn chairs, and a very relaxed atmosphere. Plus, mist for those hot summer days!

Where to Eat

• Pêche – Probably one of the best meals I’ve had in Colorado. Everything was seasonal, fresh, and the presentation was unforgettable.

• Fidel’s – Great lunch spot to fuel up for winery hopping. Get the elote for starters and a peach margarita during peach season!

• Bin 707 – A short 15-minute drive to Grand Junction, but worth it for the food and the funky decor. Try the Albondigas pizza!

Before You Go: Farmers Market

If you’re there on a Sunday, stop by the Palisade Farmers Market. It’s downtown, full of local produce, homemade goods, Palisade merch, breakfast burritos, and coffee. We grabbed a few last-minute gifts and loaded up on peaches for the ride home.

Palisade is about a four-hour drive from Denver and makes for such an easy yet stunning summer escape. It truly feels like you’re on another continent and not in Colorado. Add to your Colorado summer bucket list!