First kick off to my new adventure - Colorado

Before I start my new journey to Portugal, I decided to go to Colorado to visit family and friends. Many thanks to my friends Rollie and Kathleen for allowing me to take over their guest and family room. 

Their townhome sits on the 7th tee of the Country Club of Colorado Springs and has a lovely view from their deck. The wildfife was incredible. Everyday deer, rabbits, birds and squirrels graced their outdoor area. 

And, what would a deck be but the best place to have a dry martini?

Although I spent many days relaxing and visiting with my brother and sister, I did have time to do some touristy activities and enjoy the outdoors of Colorado's finest.

Kathleen and I hiked the 7 bridges of North Cheyenne Creek Park. Up North Cheyenne Canon road the moderately difficult hike is 5.78 miles out and back. The trail starts at over 6,000 ft and follows a mountain stream in a 1.597 ft gain.

It was a beautiful day and wonderful exercise for getting your heart rate going. So clean, and the sweet smell of fall was in the air.  

Seven Bridges

View half-way up the trail

Changing leaves

The bridges are sturdy and wooden and run criss-cross across the creek.

Finally the last bridge

The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey

The working abbey produces their own wine and the tasting room is open for standing room, or you can register a table. Kathleen, her daughter Joanna and I did register for 10 tastings, and a picnic lunch of crackers, cheese and shrimp. 

We started with white, then reds (along with the reserves) and finally sweets (not for me)!

Wine haul

The Cheyenne Mountain Zoo

The zoo in Colorado Springs is an attraction, not just outside visitors but all Coloradans and we do love our zoo. 

Kathleen and I stuck to the African area; hippos, giraffes, penguins, and elephants.

Now my time in Colorado has come to an end. I'm so glad I took the time to come visit family and friends before I start my trek abroad. 

Keep checking back to robinsgreatadventure for more posts.