How to Hurkle-Durkle in Boulder

On your next trip to Boulder, we propose you try something a little different and... hurkle-durkle. Maybe you’ve heard the term since it went viral on TikTok, but “hurkle-durkle” (or hurkle-dour) is an old Scottish saying that means to stay in bed long after it’s time to get up. In an age of maximization, what could be more luxurious than lounging in bed "too long" (as if there even is such a thing)? Set aside the itineraries and agendas and linger longer with these ways to have the hurkle-durkliest of days in Boulder.

Where to Stay for Prime Hurkle-Durkling

One of the key elements to a solid hurkle-durkle is, of course, the bed. While you can’t go wrong with any hotels in Boulder, here are a few that will guarantee those hours spent under the covers will be extra cozy.

Hotel Boulderado

Lounge luxuriously surrounded by traditional Victorian decor that will transport your hurkle-durkle to the Gilded Age in one of the Boulderado’s historic suites. When you’re ready to emerge, wrap yourself in a Boca bathrobe and part rich brocade curtains for views of the mountains and Boulder’s charming downtown. Let the light in while you get horizontal again to order in-room dining from the hotel’s Corner Bar or Spruce Farm & Fish. Who can say no to tres leches French toast and lavender mimosas in bed?

St Julien Hotel & Spa

Wake up in 400-thread-count sheets and open your blackout curtains for sun-drenched mountain views from the St Julien in downtown Boulder. You won’t need to lift a finger unless it’s to crawl into a fluffy bathrobe, brew in-room Nespresso coffee or call for room service. If you do venture out, you have your pick from dozens of restaurants and bars within a few blocks, or meander down to St Julien’s farm-to-table restaurant, Jill’s, and continue lounging on the heated stone patio. Round out your hurkle-durkle with a mountain lavender massage or hydrafacial at the spa.

Boulder Guest House

This boutique hotel is inside a historic Victorian house just east of downtown. The on-site Zen Buddhist practice center’s energy carries throughout with natural wood textures and materials, warm, low lighting, living plants, and custom beds crafted by a local artisan. Six rooms offer different features, like wood-burning fireplaces or doors that open to the gardens, while others have decks that peek out through tree tops. You're in for an extra peaceful hurkle-durkle here.

Limelight Hotel Boulder

Relaxing in bed is great, but you’ll eventually need a break (and some vitamin D). Level-up your hurkle durkle at Limelight’s year-round heated rooftop pool, hot tub and outdoor space. Chill under a poolside cabana while you sip a mimosa or mocktail and take in some of the best Flatirons views in the city. There’s also plenty of room to stretch out in Limelight’s modern, large, light-filled rooms and suites. Stream your favorite shows and movies on your room’s 65-inch 4K TV while you brew bottomless cups of coffee in a Lavazza maker.

A-Lodge Boulder

Located on seven acres of canyon terrain, open windows provide a backdrop of fresh mountain air and babbling creek noises while you lounge in your hotel room, cabin, chalet, tent or van (available to rent on-site). If you decide to get up and stretch your legs eventually, you can slowly wander around the forest and trails just outside your door, sit by the creek or even pop in for a creekside sauna or hot tub sesh. Don’t forget to bring your pup for all-day cuddles at this dog-friendly spot.

When You Do Venture Out (Slowly)

Bring a Puzzle Back to Your Room

Pick up an artistic, bespoke wooden puzzle from Liberty Puzzles to work on while in your room. These heirloom puzzles can double as art pieces that you can frame and display once you get home.

Pick Up a Fresh Read From a Local Bookstore

If you’re hurkle-durkling right, chances are you’ll need a new book or two while you’re in town. Browse a curation of local and international titles at Trident Booksellers and Cafe and Boulder Book Store. Or see all of Boulder’s bookstores here.

Head Out for Some Restorative Time

If you start to go a little stir crazy and could use a change of scenery, try a sound bath or gentle yoga class at one of Boulder’s studios, or a therapeutic sauna and cold immersion therapy session at Dragontree or PORTAL.

Lounge in Nature

Lay back on a patch of grass and watch the clouds roll by at Eben G. Fine Park, a popular local spot for creekside hangs and dips. Chautauqua Park has an open grassy area, ideal for picnics and sunbathing. Folks also flock to North Boulder Park to play volleyball and spread out their blankets to relax, play music and bask in good views.

Eat on a Sunny Patio

Patios are Boulder’s watering holes — locals and visitors flock to eat, drink and be merry on any given sunny day. Try Southside Walnut Cafe in SoBo, Dushanbe Teahouse downtown, or Spruce Confections in NoBo for a few lower-key patios where you can experience the joy that is a Boulder patio while also finding a little peace and tranquility.