I recently had the pleasure of taking a weekend trip to Canon City, Colorado. Yes, this is the city of prisons, but it also has some of the most magnificant views in the state, nay, the nation.
I was delighted to be invited to take a ride on The Royal Gorge Route. This scenic old-fashioned train ride was both fun and high-class. My lunch of a Caeser salad, apricot glazed chicken breast and chocolate dessert was scrumptious! They also have a full bar on board to include wines from the local Canon City winery. Take a look at their website to learn about their upcoming events
including Santa Express Train, Murder Mystery Train and New Year's Eve Train.
Now, as for that winery..............................
Wow! I have never seen a more beautiful location for a winery. The Winery at Holy Cross Abbey is an old monastery with beautiful architecture, an outdoor wedding ceremony spot, wild horses and of course tasting room. My favorites were the 2008 American Reisling which comes in a beautiful blue bottle, and a wine that they call their "Wild Bunch Harvest," which is comprised of grapes donated from dozens of area vineyards. It even lists the contributors on the back of the bottle. While we were there, one of the locals came in to purchase 6 cases of this bottle saying that it makes for a perfect, more personal holiday gift!
Eager to learn more about this small town, we chatted up some locals at the Irish Pub, McClellan's Grill and Brewing Company. I handed out some business cards when I heard that a girl there was planning her wedding (which had to be held in Canon City, since she had lived there all her life.) She told me about the probable location for her reception, The Annex Event Center. This historic ballroom, with built in stage is located right there on Main St.