Aspen Hotels

Situated at the base of Ajax mountain, the W Aspen’s ski-in, ski-out premise is not novel for this sliver of Colorado. Its rooftop bar, however—with its firepits, hot tubs, expert mixologists, and exquisite views—is special. The décor is all ’70s retro with a nod to Aspen’s mining history. It’s loud, yes, but all the details are there: thoughtful outdoor areas with an abundance of heating, well-spaced interiors, and plenty of comforts that feel both informal and decadent. For families or groups looking to travel together, the Sky Residences (effectively high-end condos) at the top of the W make a lot of sense. Sprawling with their own private rooftop, the residences have huge kitchens, multiple bedrooms, and panoramic views of the mountains.

Even among Aspen’s supply of extravagant hotels, the St. Regis stands out. It hits you when you walk through the doors and see the giant stone fireplace in the lobby, which has that rustic-yet-polished feeling you get at the best ski resorts in the world. The guest rooms are outfitted with custom leather bed frames and faux-fur throws, and some have marble fireplaces (be sure to request a room with one—it makes a huge difference). And the fifteen-treatment-room RAKxa Wellness Spa is a super decadent spot to recharge after a day on the slopes—or after a day doing anything, really. We’re partial to the Rocky Mountain Ritual, which moisturizes wind-whipped skin.

Just steps from the gondola, this St. Regis offers the same level of service you'd find in any of their properties, with a décor palate that's rustic-meets-modern. You'll find custom leather bed frames, faux fur throws, and marble fireplaces. Incidentally, the St. Regis is also a favorite for foodies. Their signature in-house Chefs Club, a partnership with Food & Wine, brings in the country's best up-and-coming chefs as consultants for a menu that is endlessly changing in style and scope. P.S. The spa here is the bomb, too.

The Little Nell is famously the most luxurious of Aspen's resorts, so it follows that it's also home base for the ritzy see-and-be-seen scene the town is known for. Still, it's perfectly possible to have a discreet stay, if only because the rooms themselves—designed by LA-based Holly Hunt and turned out with Fili d'Oro down, heated marble floors and walls in the bathrooms, cozy fireplaces, and mountain views—are so exquisite. The recently renovated, ski-in, ski-out spa is also a selling point and the perfect way to wind down after a long day. You'll be grateful for the impeccable service, which makes every activity from skiing to making a dinner reservation blessedly simple. In the hotel's two restaurants, Element 47 and Ajax Tavern, take advantage of the over-the-top wine list from Michelin award-winning Sommelier Chris Dunaway, who's earning top stars for his management of the hotel's deep wine collection. Art lovers take note: The Nell is also home to a legendary collection of contemporary art, which occupies all of the hotel's hallways, restaurants, and guest rooms.

The historic Jerome has been part of Aspen's story since it opened as the town's first hotel more than 120 years ago. Still housed in the original building (albeit with an updated interior and an expansion), the hotel was purchased by Auberge in 2012. While it retains its small-town charm, it now offers Auberge-style amenities like a gorgeously-decorated bar, a luxe spa, and two full-service restaurants. As for the décor, it feels warm and stately, with deep greens, rich leathers, and western touches like plaid and vintage portraits throughout the rooms and public spaces. The location, perfectly situated between the base of Ajax and the river, is just the icing on the cake.