Elite Traveler Fall 2021

WHERE TO STAY

WASPEN Sky Residence No one can dispute the W Aspen’s majestic location, wedged on the mountain like a magical portal to outdoor fun. Taking the brand’s hip reputation up a notch to include a cushion of elegance and ease, this luxurious hotel-with-an-edge evokes history, invites repose, and manages to straddle that balance of trendiness and indulgence that pleases all generations. Sporting a happening rooftop pool scene, a ski shop, ski concierges, fire pits and mining-era-inspired decor, the chalet hotel redefines ‘festive hangout.’ Round up your nearest and dearest for a multi-generational family getaway and book a three-bedroom, design-centric Sky Residence, gloriously equipped with fantasy kitchen and a party-worthy terrace with excellent views of Aspen Mountain, Independence Pass, Red Mountain and Downtown Aspen. The Sky Residences are also available for shared ownership should you wish to make one a more permanent mountainside address. From $2,900 per night. Contact Katie Menary, rooms operations manager,

VICEROY SNOWMASS Three-bedroomPenthouse

ST. REGIS ASPEN The Presidential Suite Playing off Aspen’s Gilded Age success as a mining mecca, the St. Regis evokes a well-heeled mine owner’s mansion sanctum. Sandwiched between town and ski runs on the mountain, the hotel provides a comfortable place to rest after a day of play. Its Fountain Courtyard reflects the vastness of the outdoors, and acts as a social playground. Look no further than the Presidential Suite, complete with fireplace and baby grand piano; it’s a haven on the resort’s highest floor. Expect hi-tech amenities, such as a state-of-the-art Bang & Olufsen sound system, as well as moody, clubby furnishings, including antiqued brown leather club chairs, black and white accents, and mirrors and metallic textures for contemporary flair. A fully functional kitchenette facilitates entertaining. Consider a catered dinner party for eight (you’ll have room) and a butler-organized personal musical concert with friends. On call, elevated St. Regis Butler Service also keeps clothing pressed, ski boots shiny and dinner reservations confirmed. From $3,359 per night. Contact Nicole Genta, director of sales, nicole.genta@ stregis.com, +1 970 618 6702, stregis.com

THE LITTLE NELL The Paepcke Suite

Like a European ski hut on glamorous steroids, the Gold LEED certified Viceroy Snowmass is located at mid-mountain; it’s a beacon of birch and other woods, with interiors by famed designer Jean-Michel Gathy. Just under the Assay Hill Lift, the resort grants immediate access to more than 3,000 acres of skiable paradise, including a 5.3-mile-long run — practically guaranteed to make the legs tremble. Range Rovers (among other luxury cars) and an electric ‘luge’ stand are at the ready to transport guests to the base village or to nearby eateries. High points include panoramic windows at the hotel’s signature restaurant, Toro; a slope-side pool; and a wonderful 7,000-sq-ft spa. Bring your brood to fill the Three-bedroom Penthouse — including your dog, as Viceroy enthusiastically welcomes canine companions. Simultaneously functional and stylish suites have kitchens with much- appreciated ski vacation features such as washers and dryers. From $8,000 per night. Contact Anna Mattingly, director of sales and marketing, anna.mattingly@viceroysnowmass.com, +1 970 923 8000, viceroysnowmass.com

Slope-side on Aspen Mountain, the town’s only five-star, five-diamond hotel, The Little Nell, is like a little black dress — it fits (into its environment) perfectly, and manages to be comfortable and sexy simultaneously. Posh, but also infinitely casual, this hotel embodies the tony spirit of Aspen while paying homage to its outdoorsy vibe. In that tone, its foremost suite reigns as second-to- none in Aspen. Enlivened by a collection of fine art, the 2,500-sq-ft Paepcke Suite draws inspiration from its namesake, Walter Paepcke, the enterprising industrialist who founded the Aspen Skiing Company and Aspen Music Festival, among other triumphs. A one-bedroom extravaganza, complete with fireplace and an enormous deck overlooking the ski mountain’s hubbub, the suite can be connected to other rooms. A custom-designed game table by Mattaliano with crystal chess and backgammon pieces and a Gem Table by Chai Ming Studios further set a chichi mood. From $2,929 per night. Contact Jonathan Fillman, general manager, stay@thelittlenell.com, +1 970 920 4600, thelittlenell.com

katie.menary@whotels.com, +1 970 319 6308, whotels.com

Photos Dylan and Jeni Photography, Draper White, Shawn O’Connor, Ian Roth Studios, Daniel Bayer