The town of CORTEZ , in the far southwest corner of Colorado, consists basically of one long curve of highway (US-160), roughly 25 miles up from the Four Corners Monument that marks the meeting place of Colorado, New Mexico, Arizona and Utah.

Its primary function is as an overnight stop for visitors to Mesa Verde National Park, heading to or from the canyonlands of northern Arizona. Nothing in town commands much attention, though the giant Sleeping Ute Mountain to the southwest, visible from all over, makes a dramatic backdrop, looking uncannily like a warrior god asleep with his arms folded across his chest.

The Cortez Colorado visitor center is located at 928 E Main St (daily 8am-6pm; tel 970/565-4048 or 1-800/253-1616)

Motels include the clean and basic Aneth Lodge, 645 E Main St (tel 970/565-3453 or 1-877/263-8454; $50-75)

And the reliable Budget Host Inn , 2040 E Main St (tel 970/565-3738; $50-75).

Hungry? Try the Dry Dock Restaurant, 200 W Main St (tel 970/564-9404), dishes up great seafood in its pleasant garden.

Looking for a Bar? Main Street Brewery, 21 E Main St (tel 970/564-9112), serves typical bar food.

Francisca's , 125 E Main St (tel 970/565-4093), is the best place in town for authentic Mexican food, and is often packed becuase of its great service and quality food!

Enjoy your visit to Colorado! Mesa Verda National Park is a memorable experience, not to be missed!