If you’re dreaming about indulging in an opulent ski vacation, look no further. Picture yourself nestled amidst the Rocky Mountain beauty, enjoying lavish accommodations hot on the heels of adrenaline-filled, snowy adventures. “A Guide to the Most Luxurious Ski Resorts in Aspen” drives you through a snowy paradise of world-class ski resorts. It showcases where luxury meets adventure, with exclusive insights into facilities that merge elegance, comfort, and top-notch skiing amenities. Let this guide be your compass to a plush, thrill-filled getaway in Aspen’s premier frost-laden retreats.
Understanding Aspen’s Prestige
Aspen’s reputation as a ski destination
Aspen, a charming town nestled in Colorado’s Rocky Mountains, is a world-renowned ski destination. This reputation is bolstered by its 4 impressive ski areas; Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Buttermilk, and Snowmass, each offering a unique ski experience catering to different skill levels. From groomed beginner slopes to adrenaline-inducing double black diamond runs, Aspen has a little something for every ski enthusiast.
Why Aspen attracts the luxury-seeking crowd
What sets Aspen apart from many other ski destinations is its allure for the luxury-seeking crowd. Its high standards of hospitality, top-tier accommodations, and unmatched tranquility have made it a favorite amongst A-list celebrities, business moguls, and any discerning traveler who appreciates the finer things in life. Here, you will find a blend of rustic charm and refined elegance that is uniquely Aspen.
Aspen’s high-end amenities
Aspen is a pioneer in reinventing the idea of luxury in a mountain setting. With its high-end amenities such as Michelin-star restaurants, bespoke boutiques, world-class spas, and art galleries, it provides the perfect backdrop for indulgent winter getaways. It is not just about the ski; it’s about experiencing the apex of luxury in an incredibly picturesque setting.
The Little Nell
Location and surroundings
The Little Nell, Aspen’s only five-star, ski-in, ski-out hotel, is perfectly positioned at the base of Aspen Mountain. This means you’re only a few steps away from Aspen’s premier ski slopes. Its location in the heart of Aspen also allows easy access to the town’s happening dining and shopping scene.
Accommodation and facilities
The Little Nell’s accommodations are pure opulence, offering rooms and suites that marry comfort with sophistication. They provide modern amenities, plush furnishings, and panoramic mountain views. The hotel also features a heated outdoor pool, hot tub, and a world-class wellness facility.
Ski facilities and services
When it comes to ski facilities and services, The Little Nell goes above and beyond. It provides a dedicated ski concierge service that takes care of all your ski needs from arranging lift tickets to warming your boots. Private lessons with professional ski instructors are also offered.
Dining and entertainment options
The Little Nell boasts two restaurants and four bars. Each offers a unique dining or nightlife experience, featuring local ingredients, expertly crafted cocktails, and some of the finest wines. Whether you prefer a laid-back atmosphere or an upscale setting, these establishments cater to different tastes.
The St. Regis Aspen Resort
Location and surroundings
The St. Regis Aspen Resort rests at the base of Aspen Mountain, and it is only blocks away from downtown Aspen. It offers easy accessibility to ski slopes and a vibrant après-ski scene.
Accommodation and facilities
The hotel offers a variety of accommodations, from elegant guest rooms to sumptuous suites, all designed with impeccable attention to detail. You’ll find luxuriant fabrics, custom furnishings, and top-tier amenities. The St. Regis also features an award-winning spa, heated outdoor pools, and a state-of-the art fitness center.
Ski facilities and services
The St. Regis provides an excellent ski valet service, wherein your skis are carried from the storage area to the slopes. Alongside this, the resort offers ski rentals and even proffers private ski instruction.
Dining and entertainment options
The St. Regis has a selection of dining venues, including a Chef’s Club, Italian cuisine at Trecento Quindici Decano, and light bites at Shadow Mountain Lounge. Their wine collection is particularly impressive, and the ambiance in every venue exudes a sense of timeless elegance.
Hotel Jerome, An Auberge Resort
Location and surroundings
Hotel Jerome is a historic hotel located in downtown Aspen, offering easy access to both the ski slopes and the town’s diverse entertainment offerings.
Accommodation and facilities
The interior of Hotel Jerome beautifully blends its rich history with modern luxury, and the guest rooms and suites are no exception. Accommodations are spacious, outfitted with stylish western décor, vintage photographs, and stocked minibars. There is also an outdoor heated pool with stunning mountain views and a top-class spa.
Ski facilities and services
Hotel Jerome ensures ski enthusiasts are well taken care of with their ski valet service, lift ticket procurement, and personalized gear fittings.
Dining and entertainment options
Hotel Jerome has three remarkable dining venues: J-Bar, a historical landmark; Prospect, a modern American bistro; and a garden terrace for a more relaxed outdoor dining experience. Whether you’re in the mood for a crafted cocktail, sumptuous meal, or a casual bite, you’re covered.
Aspen Meadows Resort
Location and surroundings
Aspen Meadows Resort is located in the serene West End district of Aspen, surrounded by the picturesque splendor of the Rocky Mountains. It is a few miles away from Aspen Mountain and Buttermilk ski areas.
Accommodation and facilities
Aspen Meadows Resort features Bauhaus-inspired design and spacious suites with floor-to-ceiling windows that let you enjoy the beautiful mountain vistas. The property also possesses a health club, outdoor heated saline pools, and hot tubs.
Ski facilities and services
The resort provides a complimentary ski shuttle service to the Aspen ski areas and facilitates rental equipment delivery to the door of your suite for a hassle-free skiing experience.
Dining and entertainment options
Aspen Meadows Resort houses Plato’s, a fine dining restaurant offering innovative cuisine with fresh, local ingredients, complimented by an extensive wine list. Meadows Bar and Grill is perfect for après-ski drinks and casual dining.
Viceroy Snowmass
Location and surroundings
Viceroy Snowmass is situated in Snowmass Village, offering effortless ski-in, ski-out access to one of the most beloved ski mountains in Aspen.
Accommodation and facilities
Viceroy Snowmass offers luxurious, spacious rooms and suites with custom-designed interiors and high-tech amenities. There is also a wellness spa with holistic treatments and a fitness center.
Ski facilities and services
Viceroy Snowmass offers a ski valet service, private ski lessons, and assistance with lift tickets. Ski and snowboarding equipment can easily be rented on-site.
Dining and entertainment options
Viceroy Snowmass is home to TORO Kitchen & Lounge, a Pan-Latin inspired restaurant by acclaimed chef Richard Sandoval, as well as several chic bars for après-ski cocktails and light snacks.
The Ritz-Carlton Club, Aspen Highlands
Location and surroundings
The Ritz-Carlton Club is located at Aspen Highlands, right at the footsteps of a popular ski slope.
Accommodation and facilities
The property offers two and three-bedroom residences characterized by plush furnishings, gourmet kitchens and breathtaking views of the mountains. The heated pool, jetted hot tubs, and fitness center with classes add to the luxurious experience.
Ski facilities and services
The Ritz-Carlton Club provides ski-in, ski-out access from the residences to the Aspen Highlands ski area. There is also a ski valet service to assist you with your gear, rent ski equipment, and help you plan your day on the slopes.
Dining and entertainment options
The Ritz-Carlton Club offers gourmet dining at Willow Creek Bistro or a more relaxed and lively setting at The Members’ Lounge, which is perfect for après-ski.
Limelight Hotel Aspen
Location and surroundings
The Limelight Hotel is located in downtown Aspen, merely blocks away from Aspen Mountain and within walking distance of several boutiques and restaurants.
Accommodation and facilities
The Limelight offers spacious and comfortable rooms and suites, with cozy ambiance and balconies with grand mountain views. There’s also a fitness center, hot tubs, and a heated outdoor pool.
Ski facilities and services
Limelight provides a complimentary shuttle service to all four Aspen ski areas and organizes First Tracks ski tours where you can enjoy the slopes before the general public.
Dining and entertainment options
Limelight Lounge, the hotel’s dining venue, serves delicious food with plenty of vegan and gluten-free options. It also hosts live music performances, making for an entertaining après-ski experience.
The Gant
Location and surroundings
The Gant is located in a quiet area, just a few blocks away from downtown Aspen and its key ski lifts.
Accommodation and facilities
The Gant offers private condos, boasting fully-equipped kitchens, wood-burning fireplaces, and private patios or balconies. There are also two heated outdoor pools, hot tubs, and a fitness center.
Ski facilities and services
The Gant provides complimentary on-demand ski shuttle services to the Aspen ski areas and downtown shopping and dining. The Gant also has a partnership with Ski Butlers for in-room fitting and delivery of ski and snowboard equipment.
Dining and entertainment options
Pepperjack’s Café at The Gant serves breakfast and lunch, with delicious homemade cuisine and sustainably sourced coffee. Cocktail hour at Pepperjack’s is also a must-do.
Peak Seasons and Booking Tips
Best times to visit Aspen for skiing
The best time to visit Aspen for skiing is from late November to early April when the mountains are beautifully blanketed in snow. December is particularly festive, while February typically has the best snow conditions.
How far in advance to book
During peak seasons, it’s advisable to book your accommodation at least 6 months in advance to secure your preferred choices. Last-minute availability can be challenging to find, particularly in high-end properties.
Securing the best deals and packages
To secure the best deals and packages, keep an eye on various resort websites, subscribe to their newsletters, or consider hiring a travel agent specializing in luxury ski vacations. Packages often include accommodations, lift tickets, and sometimes, ski rentals and lessons.
Choosing the right resort for your needs
Aspen’s numerous high-end resorts each offer something unique, so your choice should be based on your specific needs and preferences. Consider location, ski facilities, on-site amenities, type of accommodations, and dining options. Whether you prioritize ski-in, ski-out convenience, tranquil surroundings, central location, or award-winning dining, Aspen has a luxury resort to cater to your every whim.