Known as one of Aspen’s best luxury resorts, the Ritz-Carlton Club at Aspen Highlands has one additional amenity that sets it apart: 3,635 vertical feet of world-class skiing right out the back door. Its ski-in, ski-out location gives guests instant access to Aspen Highlands’ famous expert terrain – including the Highland Bowl – and wide-open intermediate and beginner runs that offer skiers/riders spectacular views of surrounding 14,000-foot peaks.
After a day on the slopes, guests are greeted by the Ritz-Carlton’s warm hospitality and exceptional resort amenities, like the slopeside heated pools and hot tubs, perfect for an après-ski soak. Accommodations include two- and three-bedroom residences with plenty of living space with cozy touches like natural stone fireplaces and Frette linens. Located only three miles from downtown Aspen, the Ritz-Carlton Club at Highlands offers a secluded atmosphere with easy access to the area’s best restaurants, nightlife and shopping, courtesy of a free shuttle.
This week, our blog crew takes a closer look at this favorite ski-in and ski-out rental with the assistance of Gwen Cohen, fractional reservations manager at Frias Properties. Gwen works closely with potential guests to make sure they get exactly what they're looking for when they book the Ritz-Carlton Club at Aspen Highlands. Below, we sit down for a Q&A and get the inside scoop from Gwen.
Q: What do people enjoy most about Aspen Highlands?
A: "The Highlands Bowl and Cloud 9 Alpine Bistro are two of the highlights at Aspen Highlands. Cloud 9, a European-style restaurant with incredible views of Pyramid Peak, Bistro is a must for lunch on the mountain, and the deck at Highlands Alehouse is a great spot for après ski. If you’re looking for a unique dinner experience, we can help you book a snowcat dinner at Cloud 9; you’ll ride up to the restaurant after dark (with a warm cup of Glühwein) and feast on a four-course Swiss Continental meal."
Q: I assume that with the Ritz name, you get all of luxury amenities for which the brand is known?
A: "Amenities offered at the Ritz-Carlton include concierge, ski valet, two outdoor pools and hot tubs, fitness center and spa, twice-daily housekeeping, complimentary airport pick-ups and in-town transportation, and complimentary valet parking.
Q: What can guests expect with the Ritz-Carlton Highlands accommodations?
A: “The two- and three-bedroom residences really live like mountain homes with full gourmet kitchens and sumptuous living room furniture centered around a natural stone fireplace. The décor offers a classic mountain-chic ambiance, and the designers didn’t miss the finer touches: the bathrooms have heated Italian marble floors, and the beds are dressed with Frette linens.”
Q: When are peak times at the Ritz-Carlton Club?
A: "Christmas, New Year's, and the week of President's Day are the busiest times at the Ritz-Carlton in the winter."
Q: If I want to come during the winter season, how soon should I make a reservation?
A: "Two to four months in advance is an ideal time to book at the Ritz-Carlton."
Q: Is there a restaurant and/or bar on site?
A: "The Willow Creek Bistro and Caffe Siena are located at the Ritz-Carlton."
Q: Is there ski rental or a ski valet nearby?
A: "There are ski rentals available at Aspen Highlands. The Ritz-Carlton has a ski valet service, and the concierge can help arrange ski rentals for guests."
Q: Are there activities for kids?
A: "The Ritz-Carlton has a program called Ritz Kids that is available for children ages 4-12."
If you’re ready to spend a week at the best ski-in, ski-out property in Aspen Snowmass, Gwen, and the rest of Frias reservations team, can provide rates and availability. Request a complimentary quote by emailing reservations@friasproperties.com or calling 800-542-7736.