A Year in Aspen

WINTER IN ASPEN With an abundance of stunning snow-capped mountains, endless ski runs and cosy mountain lodges come winter and stunning greenery, hiking and biking trails and exciting events in the summer, we’re pretty sure Aspen is the perfect all year round retreat. Home to a vibrant cultural scene in its bustling downtown, there’s also a plethora of world-class restaurants, luxury hotels, beautiful views, perfect seasonal weather and clean alpine air- what’s not to love?

It’s a destination we’re passionate about, all year round, so we’ve created this digital guide to give you an insight into what you can expect from a trip to Aspen in both winter and summer.

Starting with the delights of the winter season in Aspen, let us take you on a seasonal journey through this incredible mountainside town.

WINTER IN ASPEN

OUR MOUNTAIN GUIDES From Snowmass to Buttermilk and everything in between, Aspen offers an incredible variety of options for skiers and snowboarders alike. To help you get an idea of which area might suit you best, we’ve decided to put together some guides so you’re in the know before you go.

From novice to advanced to those of you just looking for pure mountain beauty, let us unravel the mountains for you…

BUTTERMILK

SNOWMASS

Buttermilk, sounds sweet right? Well, this lovely little mountain really is and just so happens to be one of the areas more suitable for beginners and families, so if it’s a first time on those skis for you or you’ve got some youngsters in tow, this is the one to head to. Located close to restaurants and hotels, you won’t have to lug your gear far either.

Boasting over 3000 acres of terrain, 94 trails and 21 chairlifts, Snowmass is undoubtedly a skier’s paradise. With 94 slopes there’s plenty of snow for everyone to stack up those miles or unwind with a glass of hot wine at one of Snowmass’ charming mountain-side restaurants.

Buttermilk is renowned for hosting the X Games since 2002. The 22-foot superpipe in the terrain park was voted number one for best pipe by the Transworld Snowboarding Magazine Reader’s Poll.

This may seem intense, and we’re not suggesting to hurl yourself into it (unless you want to), but it’s quite the impressive sight and many Olympians and professionals have graced the pipe.

Aside from the adorable name, there’s a lot to love about Buttermilk. It caters for everyone, from seasoned skier all the way to novice youngster. You’ll also be treated to some incredible views whilst dining at mountain restaurants, Bumps and The Cliffhouse.

The slopes range from Green runs (beginner) to extensive Blue runs (more difficult), to some of the most advanced in the area, for the experts amongst you. There’s also powder and snow shoe tours, cross-country skiing and the chance to catch first tracks with the staff at sunrise for those who want something a bit different.

Snowmass Mountain’s terrain really has something for everyone, but it’s the variety of quality on-mountain dining experiences which also caught our eye. For instance, at Elk Camp Restaurant, huge windows, fire and stonework offer a warming atmosphere with some great food and incredible views.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

OUR MOUNTAIN GUIDES

ASPEN MOUNTAIN

ASPEN HIGHL ANDS

Aspen Mountain reaches a summit of 11,000 feet of on and off-piste powder, glades, moguls, steep faces and a variety of intermediate runs. Its nicknamed the ‘Athlete’s Mountain’ and has some of the most challenging terrain in the whole of North America.

If there’s one place that even the most seasoned traveller will be stunned by, it’s the Aspen Highlands.

It won’t be the high altitude that’ll take your breath away, but the sheer beauty and size of the mountain before you.

The gondola ensures you get up and down the mountain quickly and safely and offers some incredible views. When the skis come off, Après ski at Aspen Mountain rivals the skiing and snowboarding with its mountain café Sundeck at the summit, offering some great food and beautiful views, whilst the Ajax Tavern at the base of the mountain is a great place to rest those tired muscles with a beer in hand.

The Aspen Highlands remains a favourite amongst locals and travellers alike for a number of reasons.

Take the panoramic views at 12,392 feet, for example, and some of the most intense and challenging hikes and ski runs in Colorado. For adrenaline seekers, skiing (or snowboarding) on the infamous Highland Bowl is a must; it is 48 degrees at its steepest and only accessible via foot or hopping on board a snowcat.

We love that although this mountain is more suited to expert skiers, the resort has plenty of options for everyone else. Variety is the spice of life, after all.

There’s an addictive air of excitement on the Aspen Highlands. It’s a place that’s guaranteed to get your heart racing, whether you’re flying down the “The Bowl” or taking in the panoramic views over the Maroon Bells as you travel up a lift. Yep, you’re in bigmountain territory now.

SNOWMASS VILL AGE

ASPEN MOUNTAIN

HIGHL ANDS CAPITOL PEAK

HWY 133 TO MCCLURE PASS

PYRAMID PEAK MAROON BELLS

A YEAR IN ASPEN

WINTER IN ASPEN

WHAT’S ON As well as a truly spectacular setting, Aspen also boasts an eclectic annual events calendar, so there’s always something going on in and around the town to make your trip that bit more special. Here’s a little taster of some of our favourite winter events.

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12 DAYS OF ASPEN DECEMBER

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Unlike the song, the 12 Days of Aspen event doesn’t include a partridge in a pear tree or six geese a-laying. As Christmassy traditions go, however, Aspen has done a great job. Every day there is an array of activities and events downtown, kicking off on the 20th December with a free ice skating show by the Aspen Skating Club. Throughout the rest of the infamous 12 days, Aspen offers Yoga for Skiiers up Aspen Mountain, creative activities with Aspen Art Museum and, of course, cookies and cocoa, amongst many other things. To top it off, Santa’s even brought his reindeer along for the occasion. Just thinking about it has got us excited for Christmas. A great one for all the family.

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X GAMES JANUARY

You’ll see all sorts of quirky goings-on at this festival as people strive to defeat those post-holiday blues.

Get a team together and enter Wintersculpt, a competition that offers you a chance to have a go at ice sculpting. If something warmer takes your fancy, witness Soupsköl on the 11 January, a soupcooking contest judged by the public to reveal which restaurant has the best soup in town. Along with fireworks and the peculiar canine fashion show, you won’t be forgetting Wintersköl in a hurry.

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On the slopes of the towering snow-capped Buttermilk Mountain, X Games showcases the best skiing and snowboarding talent around in its annual competition. You’ll be amazed at these athletes’ tricks and skills as they plummet down slopes and across pipes. What’s more, the evening features live music from the likes of Calvin Harris, exclusive film showcases and much more. With all events free to the public, there’s no excuse not to go.

WINTERSKÖL JANUARY

BUD LIGHT SPRING JAM MARCH

The premier spring festival in the Rocky Mountains.

Head to Aspen and Snowmass Village for your constant supply of competitions and parties over two weekends. Like any good event, it starts with a celebration with the Core Party concert in downtown Aspen. KickAspen Big Air brings ski and snowboard competitors to face off under the lights at the base of Aspen Mountain. Want to slide a box or hit a rail yourself? Get instruction for these impressive tricks at a boot camp in a mini-park on Snowmass before letting loose at one of the Hi-Fi concerts.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

WHAT’S ON

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A YEAR IN ASPEN

WINTER IN ASPEN

A YEAR IN ASPEN

IMAGE GALLERY

A YEAR IN ASPEN

WINTER IN ASPEN

TAKE A TRIP WITH BL ACK TOMATO Have a read through this all-encompassing winter itinerary for an idea of what you could be experiencing on a snowy trip to Colorado.

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THE ONLY WAY IS UP

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Upon arrival at Denver’s International Airport, we’ll have you whisked off to The Little Nell where you’ll spend the first three nights of your winter adventure.

This stunning boutique bolthole stands nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain. With spectacular views across the mountainscape and the picturesque alpine town, a cosmopolitan yet cosy interior decor as well as a luxurious fine-dining restaurant headed by executive chef Robert McCormick.

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A DAY WITH A SKI CHAMPION

After three nights at The Little Nell, we’ll have you transferred to the St Regis hotel for the remaining 4 nights. During your stay here, take advantage of their Shadow Mountain Lodge Restaurant, welcoming you with a roaring fire and an indulgent winter warmer menu.

Back out on the slopes, we’ll arrange for you a ski day with two-time world champion Chris Davenport. Considered to be one of the world’s most accomplished skiers, Davenport has skiied Everest and was the first person to ski 54 of Colorado’s 14,000 foot peaks, so it’s fair to say you’re in safe hands.

A SNOW CAT ADVENTURE

Once you’ve settled in, we’ll get you into the swing of things with a tailor-made snow day where you’ll head out on your own snow cat with an expert guide.

The snow cat will get you out to some of the best untouched territory Aspen has to offer, giving you access to open bowls, virgin snow and unrivalled views over the peaks.

When you finally descend the snow-capped peaks, we can’t think of a better way to cool off those muscles than by sitting down to a wine tasting session with 3 of the world’s 133 Master Sommeliers, right from the comfort of your own hotel at Element 47 in The Little Nell. Award-winning and renowned in North America, you’re in for a treat.

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COOKING UP A STORM

Our final treat for you is a cooking master class with a local chef, giving you an insider’s look into Aspen cuisine and tips on how to make that perfect hearty alpine meal. Gourmet food and a recipe to take home – the perfect ingredients (excuse the pun) for a full recovery from a week on the slopes. Trust us, after a week like this one, you won’t want to leave.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

TAKE A TRIP WITH BL ACKTOMATO

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A YEAR IN ASPEN

SUMMER IN ASPEN Summer in Aspen sees the snow melt away to reveal vibrant greenery and stunning scenery.

Burrowed at the foot of the Rocky Mountains, this is the perfect playground for all things outdoors from hiking to hot-air ballooning and when you feel like taking shelter, the indoors brings some pretty impressive offerings to the table as well – the young and vibrant downtown area is full of art galleries, restaurants and hip bars to quench a culture thirst.

Keep on flicking through to find out all you need to know about summertime in Aspen.

SUMMER IN ASPEN

SUMMER FESTIVALS There are always so many events in the pipeline for summer in Aspen, so here’s a rundown of the things we get most excited about every single year…

FOOD & WINE CL ASSIC IN ASPEN JUNE

ASPEN MUSIC FESTIVAL & SCHOOL JUNE - AUGUST

Have a passion for food and wine? Us too, so we couldn’t let Aspen’s Food & Wine Classic go without a mention. Expect to find culinary stars showing off their delicious creations with cooking demonstrations and special events, so join the likes of Mario Batali and Bobby Flay for the feast. Even better, with over 300 winemakers pouring their premium wines alongside complimentary food, this is one foodie fest that ticks all the boxes.

One of our favourite cultural events, the Aspen Musical Festival and School’s performances are sure to impress. The theme in the summer season of 2014 is The New Romantics, exploring the revival of Romantic imagination in music of the late twentieth and early twenty-first centuries. Sounds good, right?

Over six hundred talented student musicians are ready to blow you away in this summer spectacular.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

SUMMER FESTIVALS

INDEPENDENCE DAY JULY

ASPEN ARTS FESTIVAL JULY

Aspen likes to celebrate Independence Day as enthusiastically as the rest of the USA, so this is always a great time to be in the area. Expect a true American style celebration including a parade, live music, picnics, a carnival for the kids and a stunning firework show that illuminates the sky and surrounding mountains.

Aspen Arts Festival sees some of the nation’s finest artists come together to showcase their skills and expertise, so you’ll find all sorts of remarkable creations ranging from life-size sculptures and incredible photographs to some beautiful locally crafted jewellery. Browse, admire, and be sure to purchase from the original artists themselves.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

SUMMER IN ASPEN

A YEAR IN ASPEN

IMAGE GALLERY

A YEAR IN ASPEN

SUMMER IN ASPEN

TAKE A TRIP WITH BL ACK TOMATO Discover what summertime in Aspen is all about on our exciting itinerary as we explore everything from rocky peaks to gourmet treats

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HEAD FOR THE HILLS

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After touching down in Denver’s international airport and taking in the clear Colorado air, get your driving soundtrack on the go and try to keep your eyes on the road as you take your rental car on the stunning scenic drive, chaperoned by the breath-taking Rocky Mountains. Pull up at the grand doors of the Hotel Jerome, your boutique Aspen abode for the next three nights, in the heart of the town centre and the perfect launching pad for adventure. Drop off your bags and stretch your legs after the drive with a wander at the main attraction, the sugar-coated Aspen Mountain.

Adjust the energy level to your liking with either a energetic cycle or more leisurely peddle through Aspen’s bike trails; either way some incredible views and unique alpine flora and fauna are in store – all the more enjoyable in the knowledge that you’ll be returning to the hotel’s intimate spa for a soothing treatment using local minerals and plants, favoured by the native Ute Indians.

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DIP INTO THE DOWNTOWN SCENE

Now you’re well-acquainted with the Rockies it’s time to plunge into the cultural hub of the downtown area, rich in hip restaurants, art galleries and summer festivals celebrating film, theatre, food and music: the choice is yours. The perfect finishing touch to the day and a requisite stop on any itinerary is a drink in the infamous Aspen hangout, the J-Bar, handily located right in your hotel.

TAKE TO THE SKIES

Today take a fresh angle on the mountain views with an exhilarating paraglide or tandem flight for a oncein-a-lifetime bird’s eye perspective of the iconic rocky peaks. In the afternoon bring it back to terra firma with a bike ride around the red-brick city streets or poplar-lined mountain trails – we think you’ve earned some time to put your feet up in the hotel’s plush surrounds for the evening.

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WIND DOWN IN ST YLE

For your last couple of days, switch up your surroundings and move over to another of the town’s hotspots, the Sky Hotel. Well-renowned for its happening poolside scene, you’ll be content just to sip a cocktail and look out over the glittering mountains right outside, but if you’re feeling restless, squeeze in some more outdoor time in the form of horse-riding, rafting, hot-air ballooning and just about every other alfresco activity imaginable, or indulge in some boutique shopping to max out your luggage limit for the flight home.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

TAKE A TRIP WITH BL ACKTOMATO

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A YEAR IN ASPEN

ALL YEAR ROUND

HOTELS IN ASPEN We couldn’t finish without offering you some insiders info on our favourite luxury abodes in Aspen. Winter or summer, here are our top picks for world-class class accommodation.

THE LITTLE NELL HOTEL

The Little Nell offers luxury comfort in a premium location at the base of the awe-inspiring Aspen Mountain.

With spectacular views across the mountainscape and the picturesque alpine town, a cosmopolitan yet cozy interior decor as well as a luxurious fine-dining restaurant headed by executive chef Robert McCormick, this is the perfect place to rejuvenate mind, body and spirit.

LOCATION Nestled at the base of Aspen Mountain and in the heart of downtown Aspen, The Little Nell is perfectly situated for exploring the surrounding area. The famous ‘Power of Four’ mountain range is right at your doorstep, including Aspen Mountain, Aspen Highlands, Snowmass and Buttermilk. This is the ultimate base for exploring America’s most famous mountain resort- so take a deep breath of alpine air and go play.

YOUR ROOM The Little Nell boasts fresh and contemporary yet cozy and definitively alpine decor, with breathtaking views of Aspen Mountain and charming downtown Aspen. With a palette of muted tones including maple wood and soft cream bed linens, the rooms are a haven for rest and relaxation. All bedrooms include a stone-clad gas-log fireplace, flat screen LCD television, Blu-Ray DVD player, sound system with iPod docking station, high-speed Wi-Fi access and five-point baths adorned with His-and-Her Caesar stone vanities, Crème de Marfil heated marble flooring and walls and exclusive all natural “First Tracks” June Jacobs spa amenities.

WHY WE LIKE IT Apart from its premium location at the foot of Aspen Mountain which goes without saying, The Little Nell brings together luxury and style that epitomizes modern-day notions of Aspen without compromising the small town charm on which it is founded. Its fine-dining restaurant, ‘element 47’, is Aspen’s newest restaurant and opens its doors to a new concept of haute cuisine, forging the way for soulful American cooking based on fresh seasonal ingredients to be appreciated in a luxury setting. The Little Nell also has an Adventure program organized with the expected flair synonymous of the hotel and that includes an array of fun activities such as fly fishing, biking and golfing, as well as some that are more obscure – why not try Cowboy Camp, stand-up paddle boarding or Geocaching? On this basis and more, it is easy to see why The Little Nell has earned its reputation as Aspen’s most legendary hotel and a place on in our hearts.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

HOTELS IN ASPEN

ST REGIS

Stunning snowy peaks, trickling rivers, vibrant après ski and top class hospitality. This is luxury at high altitude.

LOCATION Nestled in the Elk Mountains of the Rockies, St Regis is situated at the base of 4 major ski areas in Aspen. With close proximity to all 4 areas and only 10 minutes to the slopes and 10 minutes to the airport, a trip to St Regis is effortless, quick and easy. A wander to the restaurants, shops and entertainment on offer in Aspen will only take 10 minutes, too. Close to everything you could need, winter or summer. Sounds good to us.

YOUR ROOM Each of the rooms and suites on offer has been decorated in beautiful, rich tones and all boast astounding views. If you opt for a suite, you’ll be treated to a spacious living room and an optional butler service. Beautiful marble bathrooms and modern amenities can be expected in whichever type of accommodation you choose, so you can rest assured that even the standard guest rooms offer high end luxury.

WHY WE LIKE IT Overlooking stunning Aspen Mountain, it was St Regis’ very own bar and restaurant that had us hooked.

Shadow Mountain Lodge welcomes you with a roaring open fire, custom designed furnishings and a menu hosting indulgent winter warmers that will leave you so sunk into your chesterfield sofa you’ve forgotten what the word ‘ski’ even means… cue the roast s’mores, homemade hot cider, nightcap and champagne. And if you come back more than once (like we did) there’s a wide selection of cocktails, aperitifs, wines and beers to keep you busy. This place is tailor-made for those après ski muscles craving a bit of time out by the fire, whether it’s a cosy up with your fellow skiers, admiring the stunning mountain views or literally just falling asleep.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

ALL YEAR ROUND

SKY HOTEL

After a day’s adventuring in the playground of the Colorado Rockies or wandering around downtown Aspen, perfectly placed at the foot of the mountains, the boutique Sky Hotel is the home to return to for relaxing, refuelling and getting cosy beside the fire.

LOCATION The Sky Hotel is nestled at the base of the iconic Aspen Mountain, in the downtown area of Aspen itself and only ten minutes’ drive from the local airport. The renowned powdery snow of the local mountains awaits ski bunnies and snowboarders literally right outside the door and the spectacular Maroon Bells mountains are just a few miles away, ideal for hiking on a warm day; for a slower pace, the downtown area around the hotel boasts boutiques, art galleries and summer music and film festivals galore.

YOUR ROOM Stylishly decorated in colours and textures to reflect the picturesque alpine landscape just outside your window, all 90 of the hotel’s rooms and suites enhearten a truly cosy feel to ensure your batteries are fully recharged for the following day in the great outdoors. The luxurious bath products and down duvets in your room and overstuffed armchairs around glowing fireplaces in the lounge areas lend to the feeling of the ideal snug log cabin to go hand-in-hand with an escape to the fresh air and peace of the mountains.

WHY WE LIKE IT After an afternoon on the slopes, we can’t say no to a spot of après-ski and especially Sky Hotel-style: a dip in the heated pool or hot tub looking out over the mountains followed by an expertly-mixed cocktail in the hotel’s well-known bar, 39 Degrees, the local’s favourite hangout. Pull up a seat by the fireplace, dig into some tasty food and watch Aspen’s movers and shakers in their natural habitat.

A YEAR IN ASPEN

HOTELS IN ASPEN

HOTEL JEROME

As one of Aspen’s historic landmarks, Hotel Jerome is a luxurious and grand hotel that holds a prime location on East Main Street, in the heart of Aspen’s charming town centre. The hotel, built in the 1880’s is a product of the booming silver rush and became a favourite haunt for Hollywood stars John Wayne and Gary Cooper. This stately brick hotel, affectionately named the city’s ‘crown jewel’ by Aspen’s residents, has recently undergone a complete renovation that has transformed it into one of the city’s hippest hotels.

LOCATION Hotel Jerome is conveniently located in the heart of Aspen, offering stylish and contemporary accommodation, genuine hospitality, a lively bar and popular restaurant. From the hotel, you can easily wander into Aspen’s bustling town centre, which takes on a whole different character in the summer months, with its cafes and restaurants spilling out onto the pavements. With over 100 world-class art galleries, boutiques and luxury shops within easy walking distance, you’ll be ideally situated to make the most of this legendary alpine town.

YOUR ROOM Hotel Jerome has swapped traditional plush brocades for a stylish boutique decor with a modern twist, paying homage to traditional Native American culture. The rooms are decorated with calming earthy colours, punctuated by striking American Indian patterns and contemporary art commissioned by Aspen artists, creating a fun and relaxing ambiance fitting to the majestic surroundings.

WHY WE LIKE IT Hotel Jerome has recently undergone a total transformation, and yet its sense of history and authenticity remains totally intact. We love the fact that Hollywood’s ultimate cowboy, John Wayne, used to come here in the rat-pack years, accompanied by his buddy Gary Cooper. The infamous J-Bar was a swinging spot during the prohibition, where its spiked drink the ‘Aspen Crud’ was all the rage- and is still a cornerstone of Aspen’s social scene today. Hotel Jerome’s spa is the ultimate haven for rejuvenation and relaxation, employing traditional methods of healing derived by the Ute Indians. Hotel Jerome was the coolest place in town then, and by jove its the coolest place in town now: reinventing itself under a brand new guise that oozes boutique style and sophistication. This is where it’s at.

A YEAR IN ASPEN