BLOG NOTE: This blog post is from a previous season. To view our most recent blog posts, click here.
A mountain mecca of shopping, art, nightlife and outdoor activity, Aspen offers something for everyone. But exactly how do you go about planning the perfect Aspen luxury ski vacation? Well, this week we asked our vacation specialist Jenny Jacque, to help our blog team. As part of the Frias team, Jenny works with tour operators from around the world to plan some of the coolest vacations imaginable. This week our blog team sits down with Jenny to plan the perfect Aspen luxury ski getaway.
Q: I’m hoping you can help me plan a luxury Aspen vacation. I really want to come to Aspen and check it out and have an open budget. What’s the first thing I need to know?
A: “You need to know when you plan on coming. Do you want ski-in/ski-out? Our option would be the Ritz-Carlton Club at Aspen Highlands. However, if you want an in-town location, then we also have the Hyatt Grand Aspen and the St. Regis Residence Club. Both luxury properties are very close to the gondola.”
Q: When should I plan to come? I’m pretty open as long as it is winter.
A: “OK. Do you want it to busy or slower? Busy weeks are holidays, X Games, President's Week and Spring Break. The best skiing is most likely going to be in February - so you might want to plan then.”
Q: Should I fly in to Aspen or to Denver? Or somewhere else?
A: “Fly into Aspen. Denver is a four-hour drive. You could also check Eagle or Grand Junction airports which offer shorter drives.”
Q: What if I drive to Aspen? Is there parking? Do I really need a car?
A: “Parking is included in all of our rentals. There is no need for a car, everything is within walking distance or local bus route.”
Q: What are your Top 3 winter choices? Remember I want luxury.
A: “(1) St. Regis Residence Club; (2) Ritz-Carlton Club; (3) Hyatt Grand.”
Q: What about ski-in, ski-out? Do you have it?
A: “Yes, we have it at the Ritz-Carlton Club at Aspen Highlands.”
Q: What kind of amenities can I expect if I book luxury?
A: “Health passes, complimentary transportation within Aspen, on-site spa (St. Regis and Ritz only), concierge services, restaurants on-site (St. Regis and Ritz only).”
Q: What makes luxury that much better than deluxe?
A: “Top-of-the-line appliances, location and higher end furnishings.”
Q: What are a few high-end things I can do in Aspen?
A: “(1) Powder tours; (2) Private Snowcat dinner at Cloud Nine; (3) or a carriage ride to Pine Creek Cookhouse.”
Q: What’s the best way to get in a day of luxury skiing or snowboarding? Hire a personal instructor?
A: “Yes, private is the way to go. You’ll be skiing like a pro in no time.”
Q: Where can I experience fine dining?
A: “(1) Pinons; (2) Cache Cache; (3) Element 47 at The Little Nell... just to name 3 of our favorites.”
Q: Where can I enjoy a great glass of wine?
A: “(1) Ajax Tavern -- enjoy apres and watching people ski down Aspen Mountain. (2) Sky Hotel bar (39 Degrees Lounge) -- drink poolside.”
Q: Does the beer really flow like wine in Aspen?
A: “Yes, at Aspen Brewing Company.”
We're always here to assist you with your vacation planning. Our experienced vacation specialists are always here to help you select a luxury rental property.