1) Number one has to be the sunshine. Over 300 days of sunshine every year is not only a plus, but it boosts your spirit. Even when it’s cold and snowy, a sunny day can do wonders for people’s frame of mind.

2) The mountains. Whether you like hunting, fishing, mountain biking, or camping, there’s plenty of outdoor activities to choose from around Denver. We may not have oceanside property, but the mountain chalets make for some attractive real estate..

photo credit: C. G. P. Grey

3) Lots to do. The Denver Nature and Science Museum, The Denver Zoo, The Wildlife Experience, Water World, Elitch Gardens, The Botanical Garden, Red Rocks, Garden of the Gods, and many other hot spots are all must sees when you live in Colorado

4) Our sports teams. The Denver Nuggets, The Colorado Avalanche, The Colorado Rockies, The Denver Broncos, and the Colorado Rapids are some of the best major league sports teams in the nation. Not to mention all five teams have relatively new venues that make the spectator experience 100 times better. Oh and don’t forget our major universities like the University of Colorado, Colorado State, and The Air Force Academy.

5) Shopping. If you have the need to shop until you drop, you can do it here. . The 16th street mall is one of a kind, Park Meadows Mall, Flatirons Mall, Cherry Creek, and the new Southlands and are just a few of the best.

6) Healthiest Cities. Denver and Colorado Springs ranks in the top 5 of the healthiest cities in the nation year in and year out from national health and fitness magazines. Coloradans love the outdoor and stay active all year long which is why we have so many healthy people.

Littleton, situated just south of Denver is a small suburb with a big feel. Their town center area is filled with historic buildings that contrast Denver’s towering skyline. But Littleton’s so close to Denver that you can hike or bike the trail along the Platte River to get there. You can choose to ride the light rail train, or drive into the city. There’s fantastic shopping and eating in Littleton. The housing prices are less than in Denver proper with the majority being $1 million and over. There’s no proliferation of high-rise condos either. In Littleton residents usually have more acreage to spread out and many homes have horse stalls and tack rooms. The luxury is still here too with peaceful lake and mountain views, gourmet kitchen, wine cellar, home theater and separate guest quarters. Outside you’ll find many homes complete with decks and entertainment spaces to enjoy the weather.

photo credit: kennarealestate

Cherry Hills Village is one of metro Denver’s most exclusive communities. Its neighborhoods are jam packed with luxury offerings. Only six miles south of Denver it’s an easy commute. This is one of the most affluent areas in Colorado. The landscaping and meticulous groundskeeping is evident. Professionally manicured lawns and gardens, with large houses feauturing large windows, ornate decor, and big living spaces are common. Interiors use only the finest woods, stone, glass and tiles to create open flowing spaces for sumptuous living and easy entertaining. The magnificent mountain views are the backdrop for your picturesque home. You’ll often find a library, swimming pool, three-car garage, and other luxurious amenities in these houses.

Centennial is a new city, designed in February 2001. It’s so new in fact that many people who live in the area don’t even call it Centennial. They usually refer to the area using names of neighboring cities, like Littleton or Aurora. But it is a real city with about 100,000 residents. For horse owners, there are many places to call home, with lots of 20 acre lots that could be your definition of luxury living. The views from almost anywhere are absolutely stunning and homes will have lots of windows, many floor to ceiling, to show off the picture-perfect views. Bright and open interiors lend themselves to entertaining, and easy living. Some homes feature a guesthouse for visitors. For more security, a gated community with mature landscaping and views for miles may be the ideal place for you.

Also south of Denver is Larkspur – a small town on the northern slope of Pike Forest. A quiet living area, with only about three hundred residents, Larkspur provides dramatic views of the front range hills. If you like playing golf there’s a public 18-hole golf course with a pro shop, a well-appointed clubhouse, lounge and restaurant. There’s a great deal available in the way of luxury homes in Larkspur. From gated estates to sprawling ranches, you can be sure that no matter what home you’re in, you’ll be treated to dramatic views. There’s no shortage of amenities either. Some homes are equipped with a heated airplane hanger with runway or helipad when you’re ready to get out of town. Living here offers an abundance of options should you have money to invest. Purchasing a luxury home in Larkspur is almost like buying a piece of heaven.