The St. Regis Aspen Resort. Credit: The St. Regis Aspen Resort
There’s no place for winter sports quite like Colorado. And there’s a handful of towns around the state that really excel not just in world-class slopes and snow-covered trails, but in refined stays, excellent food and great service.
Read on to see what new these tried-and-true winter wonderlands have in store for you this season.
ASPEN
Where to Stay
This celebrity magnet of a ski town glitters with winter glory, both on the slopes and at the hotels. Enjoy the best of both worlds when you check into Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star The St. Regis Aspen Resort for a warm, stylish stay that comes complete with outdoor hot tubs.
If you’re looking for a little more history during your ski escape, check into the storied (and recently renovated) Hotel Jerome, An Auberge Resort. Since 1889, this Four-Star stalwart has served guests, and following a multi-million-dollar refresh in early 2018, it’s even better with new alfresco Jacuzzis, an underground bar and unique mountain-meets-modern rooms.
Remède Spa Aspen. Credit: Remède Spa Aspen
What to Do
Try out The St. Regis’ daily snowmobile tours, which include a hot lunch in a rustic cabin followed by après-ski nibbles at Shadow Mountain Lounge.
After a day on the slopes, opt for the CBD-enhanced treatments at Four-Star Remède Spa Aspen. Using the healing properties of hemp, the infused oils help ease ski-tired muscles while also promoting deep relaxation.
Thrill seekers won’t want to miss Snowmass’ new Breathtaker Alpine Coaster, a mile-long bobsled ride that shoots straight through the forest with only the snowflakes and trees to hear you scream.
For something more low-key, book a naturalist-guided snowshoe tour through Hotel Jerome that still gets you out in the snow, but allows for a more leisurely view of Aspen’s stunning landscape.
Element 47. Credit: The Little Nell
Where to Wine and Dine
Don’t miss the exquisite monthly wine dinners (February 8 and 27) or guest chef dinners (February 12 and March 8) at Five-Star Element 47, the fine-dining restaurant of Aspen’s Five-Star The Little Nell, or simply stop by for an elegant meal any other night.
If you decide to visit near the end of ski season, consider combining winter sports with The Little Nell’s third annual wine academy on April 7 through 10. The 2019 edition focuses on Italian vino and will be taught by the hotel’s own master sommelier, Carlton McCoy. As a bonus, those who register for the course will get to stay at the gorgeous property for a preferred price.
Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail. Credit: Four Seasons Hotels Limited
VAIL AND BEAVER CREEK
Where to Stay
With 193 alpine trails, Vail Mountain is one of the best places to hit the slopes in Colorado. Make the adventure even better by booking a room at Four-Star Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail, a classic mountain lodge-style property that envelops you in ski-culture splendor. Powder hounds will find the convenient ski concierge a real boon, whether you need your boots warmed, your hot cocoa mug filled or just a map to help you navigate all those glittering runs.
Another great resort resides in nearby Avon, right next to Beaver Creek. Four-Star The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch is a stunning, rustic-meets-regal property with a 21,000-square-foot spa. Speaking of the spa, we suggest trying the herbal poultice for some post-slopes muscle tension relief — it’s one of the best ways to recover after conquering Beaver Creek Mountain.
Four Seasons’ The Remedy Bar. Credit: Four Seasons Resort and Residences Vail
What to Do
When you need a break from the slopes, indulge in après-ski at Four Seasons’ The Remedy Bar for sensational pours and picture-perfect views of Vail Mountain through massive windows.
To unwind even further, reserve some time for the Five-Star spa, where beer-focused rituals offer a taste of Colorado.
For a relaxing night out, take in a show at Beaver Creek’s Vilar Performing Arts Complex. Upcoming performances include Neil Berg’s Pianomen: An Intimate Tribute to Billy Joel and Elton John, (January 3), comedian Howie Mandel (January 20) and bluegrass band Leftover Salmon (February 15).
Swiss Chalet. Credit: Sonnenalp Hotel
Where to Wine and Dine
Sample local mountain cuisine at Wyld, the contemporary dining room of The Ritz-Carlton, Bachelor Gulch. Tuck into elevated classics such as Colorado rosemary lamb with fermented black garlic jus, crispy Brussels sprouts with cider maple syrup powder, and black truffle macaroni and cheese with wild mushrooms. And, if timed right, you can land a spot at one of the restaurant’s wine-maker dinners (December 19, January 23, February 27 and March 27), the last featuring Moët champagne.
Of course, if none of those dates work with your vacation, savor a classic post-ski tradition with a steaming pot of cheese fondue and schnitzel at Swiss Chalet, a short walk from the aforementioned Four Seasons.
Madeline Hotel and Residences’ Spa. Credit: Madeline Hotel and Residences, An Auberge Resort
TELLURIDE
Where to Stay
Imagine spending your next vacation in a beautiful Victorian mining village nestled between the stunning snow-peaked San Juan Mountains and lush Colorado forest. Telluride’s wild surroundings may leave you feeling a little secluded but that’s precisely the point.
Make the most of this heavenly hideaway with a stay at Forbes Travel Guide Recommended The Inn at Lost Creek. This charming, 32-room boutique hotel rests between two lifts, making it ideal for an intimate ski-in, ski-out stay. Be sure to schedule some time in the inn’s rooftop hot tub — you’ll need it after a day of snowboarding.
Another chic option is Madeline Hotel and Residences, An Auberge Resort, a Four-Star property in Mountain Village that’s steps from the gondola. After a day of outdoor action, cozy up in the suites, which come with gas fireplaces and kitchenettes equipped with a Wolf stovetop and Asko Swedish dishwasher.
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What to Do
While Telluride’s past proves a bit rugged, the area today brims with casual luxury and cool adventure. Try Nordic skiing through alpine forest, dogsledding in snowy backcountry, give fat-tire biking a shot and, of course, spend time cruising down the mountain’s 120 runs.
To experience something a little different, go winter fly-fishing in the Uncompahgre, San Miguel and Gunnison rivers.
For more relaxing pursuits, check out Madeline’s ice skating rink in the heart of Mountain Village or indulge in a spa treatment at the hotel. Ease any aches with the Alpine Remedy Deep Tissue, a soothing massage featuring arnica-infused, anti-inflammatory oils.
Add to the winter wonderment with a performance by Ty Gallenbeck, a celebrated magician taking up residence in the hotel until April 5.
Where to Wine and Dine
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at Black Iron Kitchen, the signature restaurant of Madeline Hotel — options like the Brie-and-potato-stuffed Rico omelet and bananas Foster waffles will keep you satisfied through a day on the slopes. And since the property sits right by the lift, you can hop on right after your morning meal.
And when it comes to dinnertime, another tasty option is Inn at Lost Creek’s Siam’s Tally Grille. With its Asian-influenced menu (grilled elk steamed buns, curry barbecue burger), incredible craft cocktail roster and live-music calendar, it’s no wonder why the place is so beloved by locals and visitors.
