If you're looking for adventure, look no further than Buena Vista, Colorado. With plenty of fantastic water sports on offer, it'll be hard to know where to start!

Find your perfect base of operations for your vacation on FlipKey, from cabins to condos, and let the outdoor adventure begin!

About Buena Vista

The first known people in the area were the nomadic Ute Indians. Trappers arrived to hunt in the area in the early 18th century and the town grew from there.

It started out as Cottonwood, so-called because of the trees that grew in the area. Later, its name changed to Mahonville. Today, it's name is pronounced "Bewna Vista"—the English rather than the Spanish pronunciation of Buena—so make sure you get it right when you visit!

Back in the day, it was a dusty mining town that thrived on the gold and silver deposits in the area. By 1879, the town was mainly tents and shanties, but there were at least 68 places where thirsty miners could buy a drink—they definitely had their priorities right!

Now you can get vegan and vegetarian food in Buena Vista as well as authentic Mexican and Chinese dishes. Enough to fill even the hungriest miner's stomach!

What to do in Buena Vista

While you are in Buena Vista, explore the Buena Vista River Park. Hike along the many trails or walk along the riverbank to marvel at the sunset. If you don't feel energetic, sit by the river and watch the rafters and kayakers paddle past. You could even try fly fishing—it’s such a peaceful way to experience the surroundings.

Go to Cottonwood Lake in the mountains and do a variety of non-motorized water sports. The scenery is absolutely breathtaking! Don’t forget to take a dip in the Cottonwood hot springs.

If you don't want to spend all your vacation on the mountain, hire a bike or hike along the trails and explore the area.

Visit St Elmo, just 30 minutes away from Buena Vista, and stroll around one of Colorado's best preserved ghost towns. You can imagine the old timers brawling and creating a ruckus on the streets.

Take an open-air jeep tour and see the old, abandoned mines, as well as beautiful waterfalls, lakes and canyons. There's always something to see and do in Buena Vista, Colorado, just take your pick!

Top travel tips for Buena Vista

You can fly to Chaffee County Regional Airport, located to the southwest of Buena Vista.

Book the Chaffee Shuttle to get around. This is a public service and will take you on shopping trips, and help you get to your next destination easily.

It's probably best to take your own car, or a hire vehicle to Buena Vista. Also take sturdy walking shoes—just in case you want to walk through the hills.

If you have kids, take them to the Buena Vista Boulder Garden and let them run free. They'll love it and it's a great spot for you to relax.

If you are looking for a vacation destination that can be packed full of adventurous activities, go to Buena Vista, Colorado. You'll find plenty for all the family to do, from visiting ghost towns and long-abandoned mines, to whitewater rafting. Check out the accommodation on FlipKey, today, and find your perfect vacation rental.