Great hiking draws Country Home Food and Entertaining Editor Lisa Holderness to the Rocky Mountains, but a weekend in Boulder also means a trip to the farmers market, shopping, a spa stay, and three amazing meals a day. Here are some of Lisa’s favorite Boulder stops:

St. Julien Hotel & Spa
After checking in to her room (a modern space with mountain views and a great soaking tub), Lisa heads to the spa for a facial. Next—a spin on one of the hotel’s cruiser bikes on the bike trail or to nearby Pearl Street for shopping.
900 Walnut St.; 720/406-9696;
www.stjulien.com

Frasca
Plan to get a reservation for dinner at this nationally acclaimed Italian eatery that supports local farmers. Save room for pastry chef Deanna Scimio’s top-notch desserts.
1738 Pearl St.; 303/442-6966;
www.frascafoodandwine.com

Rebecca’s Herbal Apothecary & Supply
A remarkable selection of herbs, tinctures, oils, and spices. The aroma will draw you in; stay for a class or a custom remedy.
1227 Spruce St.; 303/443-8878;
www.rebeccasapothecary.com

The West End Gardener
Pure inspiration, this shop’s mix of vintage and new items for the home and garden looks, feels, smells, and sounds like nature.
777 Pearl St.; 303/938-0607

Bliss
The retro aprons caught Lisa’s eye, but everything about this rustic-eclectic home and accessories store is fun, funky, and unique. It’s a favorite with locals and visitors alike.
1643 Pearl St.; 303/443-0355

The Boulder Dushanbe Teahouse
This architecturally ornate spot was a gift to Boulder from Dushanbe, Tajikistan, its sister city. Stop in to admire the work of Tajik artisans. Enjoy afternoon tea (great chai) or a meal.
1770-13th St.; 303/442-4993;
www.boulderteahouse.com

Boulder County Farmers’ Market
Visit the largest farmers market in Colorado. Its slogan is “We grow what we sell.” Sample the amazing produce (Lisa loves the organic peaches), or nibble on homemade pastries. Located by the Teahouse and next to Central Park. Open Wednesday 4 to 8 p.m. and Saturday 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. April through October.
www.boulderfarmers.org

Mountain Sun Pub & Brewery
Lisa’s climbing guide suggested this casual “climbers’ hangout” for its home-brewed stout and ales, local color, and homemade sandwiches and soups with a healthful twist.
1535 Pearl St.; 303/546-0886;
www.mountainsunpub.com

Burnt Toast
An eclectic, off-the-wall spot near the University of Colorado. Breakfast is especially fun, either outdoors under an umbrella or near the large windows. Try one of the many fresh baked goods, Buckwheat Sour Dough Pancakes, or the omelet of the day.
1235 Pennsylvania Ave.; 303/440.5200; www.burnttoastrestaurant.com

Pharmaca
This is an integrative pharmacy that abounds with natural medicines, spa and beauty products, and vitamins. Just walking around it makes me feel healthy! They are a great learning resource for those new to alternative medicines, since they have both alternative and traditional medications.
1647 Pearl St.; 303/442.5164;
www.pharmaca.com

Sunflower Fine Organic Cuisine
I love the variety of freshly squeezed juices (both fruit and vegetable) and the fun smoothie choices. Lunch is my favorite. Try the Pepper Seared Ahi Tuna Salad or the Seared Fresh Crab Cakes. Plenty of vegetarian options as well. It’s on Pearl Street within walking distance from the pedestrian mall.
1701 Pearl St.; 303/440.0220;
www.sunflowerrestaurant.net

Chautauqua
What a gem this is. This landmark is a park with lots of hiking trail heads and areas for sports and relaxing, as well as a wonderful old-world dining lodge, historic landmark theatre, ranger station, and quaint cottages and houses for rent.
900 Baseline Road; 303/442.3282;
www.chautauqua.com

Peppercorn
Every foodie’s (and bride’s) dream. You can wander for hours among the quirky utensils, housewares, tabletop, cookware, cookbooks, and gourmet edibles.  It’s right on the Peart Street pedestrian mall.
1235 Pearl Street; 303/449.5847;
www.peppercorn.com

Two Hands Paperie
The wall of amazing art papers is a treat. I also loved all of the stationery options, journals, and albums. A great place for a quick gift or an urge to be artsy.
803 Pearl Street; 303/444.0124;
www.twohandspaperie.com

Bayleaf
A small, magical home store that is eclectic and stylish. Lots of fun kitchen and tabletop items and artsy must-haves for every room.
805 Pearl St.; 720/565.2477