A fairy tale is defined as being a “children’s story about magical and imaginary beings and lands,” which I associate with colorful places and people. While Colorado is full of these types of towns, one of the first to stick out to me is this fascinating community near Denver that is unlike any other:
Located just west of Boulder lies the quirky little town of Nederland, which boasts not only an ideal location, but 1,500 friendly residents as well.
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
Nicknamed “Ned” and given the apt motto of “Life Is Better Up Here,” Nederland features a number of fairy tale-like features, including large and blue bodies of water…
Wikimedia Commons
…vibrant and mature trees…
Flickr/CAJC: in the Rockies
…and majestic mountains as far as the eye can see.
Flickr/Let Ideas Compete
In addition to the Nederland’s scenic outskirts, the historic mining town – which serves as the hub of the Peak to Peak Scenic Byway – also offers a quaint and charming townscape full of bridges, small businesses, and tasty restaurants…
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
…and even one-of-a-kind events like the infamous Frozen Dead Guy Days, which pays tribute to a man frozen in a shed awaiting the day when science can bring him back to life.
Flickr/Kent Kanouse
As if all of this wasn’t mystical enough, Nederland is also home to an impressive arts and music scene, as well as the whimsical Carousel of Happiness (pictured).
Flickr/Paul Iwancio
For even more information on the magical town of Nederland, as well as a full list of upcoming events, be sure to check out the Town of Nederland’s website.
Flickr/Rex Brown
For even more of our favorite communities near Denver, check out these 15 Slow-Paced Small Towns Near Denver Where Life Is Still Simple.
Flickr/J. Stephen Conn
Wikimedia Commons
Flickr/CAJC: in the Rockies
Flickr/Let Ideas Compete
Flickr/Kent Kanouse
Flickr/Paul Iwancio
Flickr/Rex Brown
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