Colorado's Hygiene: A Quaint Town with a Peculiar Name and Breathtaking Views
Hygiene, Colorado, is a small town with a unique name that has a fascinating history. The name dates back to the late 1800s when a tuberculosis sanatorium, known as the Hygiene Home, operated in the area. The home provided natural treatments, nutritious food, and a clean environment for patients recovering from the devastating illness, which was one of the leading causes of death in the early 1900s. Today, the town may have lost its sanatorium, but it still offers a peaceful and restorative environment for residents and visitors alike.
Hygiene is located on the plains, surrounded by sparkling ponds and reservoirs, and is just 5 miles west of downtown Longmont. The town boasts an impressive collection of cafes and shops, all clustered around the intersection of North 75th Street and Hygiene Road. The Mountain Fountain is a popular stopover for cyclists, serving gluten-free baked goods, soups, salads, and made-to-order sandwiches made with locally and sustainably sourced vegetables and meats. Cafe Fritz, another highly-rated establishment, serves coffees and baked goods with gluten-free options and creative twists, as well as savory dishes like omelets and sandwiches.
Hygiene is also home to several highly-rated shops, including Red Door Arts and More, which sells paintings, pottery, and other handmade items, and Low Rider, which offers a delightful assortment of antiques and vintage items. The town's natural scenery is best experienced at Pella Crossing, a free park just south of the main intersection. Here, visitors can take in scenic views of the mountains, wetlands, and several small lakes, and enjoy activities like hiking, jogging, and fishing.
For those looking for local accommodations, there are plenty of options nearby in Longmont and Lyons. The A-Lodge Lyons, for example, offers rustic rooms right in downtown Lyons, across from the Oskar Blues Brewery, just 6 miles west of Hygiene. Overall, Hygiene is a quaint and charming town with a unique history, delicious food, and breathtaking views, making it a must-visit destination for anyone traveling through Colorado.
