When it comes to Private Flyer ski retreats or luxe summer getaways
in the mountains, Aspen, Colorado is undoubtedly the cream of the crop. The scenery is self-explanatory, especially as your private flight descends amongst the peaks, and the activities are year-round (mountain) top notch. Whether for snow or sun or just for the scenery, here are our picks for Aspen’s best.
Most Luxurious Aspen Hotel Suite
The Little Nell is BIG on luxury. Named after a femme fatale who stole one miner’s heart, The Little Nell will equally steal yours with its powdery white views variety of suite accommodations. Our favorites are tied for first: one being The Little Nell, the namesake suite, and the other naturally being it’s the largest on property, The Paepcke Suite coming in at 2,500 sq. ft. The Paepcke Suite is named after Walter Paepcke, industrialist and revolutionary in the region for his founding of multiple ski, art and music ventures. The designers and artists who contributed to the designing of the suite read like an Architectural Digest’s who’s who. Plus, the balcony overlooking the base of Aspen Mountain isn’t too bad either.
Note these suites are not bookable online; you’ll have to call the property. And the property has residences, should you not want to leave or else have a permanent place of return.
Most in Demand Aspen Dinner Table
Cloud 9 on the mountain. If you don’t plan on making it back on your skis, opt for a boozy party. Plenty of non-skiers will be taking part so no fear, you won’t be alone. It’s a popular spot so fills quickly and is only open for a brief period of the day, and only during season.
For an off-resort experience, join the Caribou Club, a true-members only establishment. You can enjoy dining, dessert or a livelier night at the bar depending on your mood. Cozy up on the warm sofas, just make sure you do so ahead of your guests. All guests must be accompanied. All this Aspen lifestyle can be yours (and your plus one’s) for a lifetime price tag of $25,000 USD.
Exclusive Aspen Experience Money CAN Buy
Try your hand at heli-fishing trips in the summer. Talk to your concierge about planning an excursion for you and your fellow travelers. It’s off the mountain and up in the air for some summer fun. For winter months, sign up for cat skiing, a form of backcountry skiing. Instead of venturing up the mountain in a helicopter or lift chair, do so in a snowcat, which rolls across the snow while you’re seated in the cabin. While not outrageously expensive, spaces are limited and thus coveted.
For an exclusive money-CAN-buy dining experience, look no further than Little Nell’s the Aspen Mountain Club on Ajax Mountain. It’s your answer to a ski-dining cache. The private venue features indoor and outdoor areas and is perfect for your next apres-ski dinner party.
Needing R&R for those aching muscles? Look no further than the Remede Spa at The St. Regis. Read: there’s an oxygen lounge and steam cave. Just the juxtaposition you need from the mountains.
Shop here: Only in Aspen
Kenyan designer Anna Trzebinski has an exclusive store featuring her collection in Aspen. The only other store in the world? Nairobi, Africa. The German-born, Kenya-raised designer has an eternal awe and appreciation for Africa which is evident in all her work. Browse and buy her jewelry and clothing, deeply inspired and representative of her upbringing and homeland. Anna sees her work as wearable art, all from natural materials and hand-made.
The high-end, unique boutique is worth a visit, whether you want a piece as a memory of your visit to Aspen or want to shop for something special for loved ones. This store is it.
Hottest Aspen Local Spot
Chair 9 where locals mix with visitors (yes, the same Chair 9 from above). It’s not just for those staying at The Little Nell for a night or two. Locals flock to the exclusive spot that only opens seasonally, and 3p – 9p at that. But don’t worry, that’s plenty of time to get the pricey bottles of champagne spraying. VIP tables and DJs are waiting for you…
Campo de Fiori is a well-known Italian restaurant with locations in Aspen and Vail. While the food is worth every bite, the bar scene is equally indulging. Expect a true Italian chef, hospitality and meal.
