A picturesque wintertime playground in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is heaven for adrenaline junkies, while its first-rate hotels and dining spots attract a refined crowd. We take a look at the luxurious ski resort and why it's a firm favourite amongst the A-list including supermodel Elle Macpherson…
STAY
Cool and contemporary with direct access to the mountain, The Little Nell is Aspen's most sophisticated address. Interior design star Holly Hunt has worked her magic in the sleek white and taupe-toned bedrooms, while the eager-to-please concierge can arrange anything from snowcat powder tours to rides downtown in the hotel's very own SUV. When it comes to après-ski revelling, the hotel's buzzy lounge bar Chair 9 is the place to see and be seen: take a seat on one of the plump cowhide couches and order a frosty bottle of bubbly.
EXPLORE
A skier's paradise, Aspen offers oodles of powder-sure glades, tracks and moguls stretched out across four mountains. Altitude-averse types can check out the immersive exhibitions at the Aspen Art Museum – designed by Pritzker Architecture Prize winner Shigeru Ban – or book in for a tour and tasting session at the Aspen Brewing Company.
TASTE
Thaw out with a well-earned fondue at Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro atop Aspen Highlands. On sunny days music blasts out on the south-facing deck and the place erupts into a ski-boot party. In downtown Aspen, a snowball's throw from the Wheeler Opera House, sits the dimly lit Wild Fig, a Mediterranean spot with a great wine list and a cockle-warming menu (try the braised rib pappardelle).
INDULGE
With a steam cave, plunge pools and a smart oxygen lounge, Remède Aspen Spa at the St Regis Aspen Resort is a welcome delight after a day spent shredding the slopes. Book in for the signature Rocky Mountain Ritual treatment and expect to emerge with soft, supremely hydrated limbs.
WHAT TO WEAR
Omorovicza Gold Rescue Cream, £150; visit omorovicza.com/uk
Cardigan-stitch cropped sweater, £395, Joseph; visit joseph-fashion.com
The General sunglasses, £143, Ray-Ban; visit rayban.com
Rooms at The Little Nell start at $325 (£260) per night based on two people sharing a Town Side room; visit thelittlenell.com. There are no direct flights from the UK to Aspen, so check online or with a travel agent for the best options.
