The Stanley, Colorado, USA
Famous as the inspiration for Stephen King’s haunted hotel in The Shining, this grand and historic Colorado institution has spooky stories by the book-full. In fact, it claims to be America’s most haunted hotel.
King and his wife’s stay here one snowy night is thought to have inspired his ominous Overlook Hotel. Stanley Kubrick’s subsequent horror film wasn’t shot here but the later mini-series was.
Surrounded by the stunning scenery of the Rocky Mountains in Colorado’s Estes Park, the secluded hotel opened in 1909 and has plenty of old world appeal. Its grand lobby has vast fireplaces, an elegant staircase and original ornate brass elevator.
Ask for room 217, where King stayed and what’s said to be the most haunted in the entire building. Although you may have to get in line as the hotel attracts plenty of ghost hunters.
