There is only one place to stay in Durango, town's grandest living icon — Stater.

Just keep in mind that you may never be satisfied with any other hotel after staying here. The Strater has been hailed down ages as Durango's "home away from home". I am willing to give up my home and live here . . .!

I arrived tired and travel weary. I strode into Strater with mixed expectations; this hotel is renowned by locals as not only a historical landmark, but as part of life of this "Old West" town.

The Strater, in fact, has bridged past into present, bringing grand quality of 100 years ago forward and merging it with modern technology and conveniences, all accomplished without any compromise in quality. The result is a perfect blending of best of both worlds that has made Strater not only a legend in its own time, but a true masterpiece of time.

Only one-step into lobby, and I stepped back a century in time. It is incredulous.

The Strater is drenched and framed in warm woods, carved, notched, and formed everywhere you look. The lobby just opens up before you, and yet there is a comforting feel to it that just invites you in. Every bit of space is thoughtfully laid out to maintain solid elegance of this great hotel.

I walk across lobby and try to take it all in, and I am amazed by style and grace. I simply could not have imagined quality of craftsmanship and attention to smallest detail, all defying words.

After a moment of adjustment, leaving weariness of travel and bustle of streets behind me, I find myself "snapped up" by my surroundings and proceed to front desk. The staff match up to environment with grace and style in action . . . professional, friendly and personal, I was clearly a welcomed guest..