Things to do / Travel Guide
The dictionary defines luxury as being something conducive to sumptuous living; usually a delicacy, elegance, or refinement, rather than a necessity. Well, Mr. Webster would have loved the Colorado Rockies region! With places like Aspen and Breckenridge, it's certainly a worthwhile pursuit. Majestic mountains provide the backdrop, and the local proprietors provide the rest.
Luxurious Accommodation in the Colorado Rockies
Deciding on the right place to lodge is probably the most important step in ensuring a luxurious vacation in the Colorado Rockies. There are great places peppered all throughout the region, and most tend to be grouped in the I-70 corridor ski resort areas of Breckenridge, Keystone, Copper Mountain, Arapahoe Basin, Vail, Beaver Creek, Aspen, and Snowmass. Telluride also offers a modicum of luxury and is located in the southwestern portion of the state.
One example of luxury lodging is the Lodge & Spa at Breckenridge. Situated atop a forested cliff just a few minutes from Breckenridge, this European-style alpine spa features stone fireplaces and wrought-iron chandeliers. The property is definitely considered upscale, with a touch of Rocky Mountain chic (read: rustic). The rooms are decorated in Native American or Southwestern décor, and the balconies have great views. Several suites have kitchenettes, and there's also a great luxury three-bedroom house with a private hot tub available for those who don't mind the price tag.
In Aspen, there's a standout hotel that warrants mention. The St. Regis is a classic mountain resort, where taste and style meet the slopes. The lobby sets the tone with its “old money” feel. Dark, rich woods surround overstuffed leather chairs, wool throws, and suede pillows. Luxury goes western in each of the 179 rooms and suites, and all contain the best in amenities. With the addition of a 15,000-square foot spa in 2005, the picture is complete. And with great views of Ajax Mountain and downtown Aspen, it's a pretty picture indeed. It's no wonder Aspen is a favorite escape for celebrities like Kevin Costner, Oprah Winfrey, and Jack Nicholson.
Telluride has also become a hotspot for the rich and famous, like Donald Trump and Tom Cruise, who are known to prefer the more laid-back atmosphere found there, versus the glitter of Aspen. The Hotel Telluride is a perfect fit for understated luxury. Somewhat reminiscent of an Ivy League school, the hotel presents visitors with leather, tweed, and plaid, but throws in a few antlers to make sure it's clear this is the Colorado Rockies we're talking about. The rooms are tasteful and warm, with terracotta and wine color schemes, and have patios or balconies with spectacular views of the San Juan Mountains. Each room offers its guest what they call “The Incredible Bed”, consisting of a goose down comforter, feather mattress, and ultra-soft linens. Bathrooms are done in marble and are loaded with quality amenities. Yum!
Luxurious Dining in the Colorado Rockies
Fine dining in the Colorado Rockies is also a joy to discover, and can only enhance your quest for a luxury-themed stay. One such bistro is D19 in Aspen. While the name sounds like it came from the kids' game of Battleship (“D19!” “Argh! You sunk my tiramisu!”), the food is no game. Chef Dena Marino prepares great Italian fare, with mountain flair. Try the Zeppole's (Italian-style donuts), prepared with prosciutto and Parmigiano Reggiano. Bellisima!
Splendido at the Chateau in Beaver Creek is yet another luxury dining selection worth considering. Old-world charm and ambiance enhance the gastric creations of Chef David Walford's American-style cuisine. The Rocky Mountain Trout is a tribute to the region and a delight for the palette. The desserts here should be illegal they're so sinful. The wine list is also outstanding.
Buffalo Bill Cody would have been pleased to stop by the Cody Inn on Lookout Mountain, in Golden. This rustic European-style restaurant is beautifully quaint, and the food that ushers forth from the kitchen is really something special. Chef/Owner George puts his magic touch on the house specialty, a melt-in-your-mouth Peppered Duck a la'Orange, and the Sunday champagne brunch offers several dishes, but none compare to the eggs benedict. Honestly, the hollandaise sauce floats itself to the table.
Luxurious Activities in the Colorado Rockies
For the spa lover, there are some great luxurious options in the Colorado Rockies. The Spa at Vail Mountain is a top-notch location that pampers its guests with the finest treatments and a soothing environment. The Allegria Spa in Avon is another outstanding choice, with the latest in spa offerings in a feng shui design. For a more rustic choice, try the Hot Springs lodge and pool in Glenwood Springs, where mineral-rich waters offer those magical healing powers!
The Colorado Rockies is known as a winter playground, but for those in the know, the non-winter months present a golden opportunity. Some of the country's top golf courses are found here, and what a spectacular setting for them, too! Found all along the I-70 corridor, courses like Keystone Ranch, Breckenridge Golf Club, Red Sky Ranch (designed by “The Shark,” Greg Norman), Aspen Glenn, River Valley Ranch, and Redlands Mesa all offer great rounds with views and challenges to test your skill.
Much of the Colorado Rockies has its roots in mining, so a good number of the nightclubs and bars are based on that classic “Old West” style. That said, we suggest looking for the smaller, intimate clubs that offer jazz or other local entertainment. Nicer hotels and resorts are your best bet.
Feel like spending cash celebrity-style in Aspen or Vail? Go shopping! The upscale galleries and boutiques are known for high-quality merchandise that you will have a hard time finding in your local mall. It's also a good place to stock up on the latest chic Western-wear. In the southwest corner of the region, Telluride is another center for upscale shopping, right in the middle of the historic district. Silver miners bought shovels here; now you can buy art and sports equipment.
Overall, there is a nice complement of luxury-based offerings in the Colorado Rockies that will enhance your stay in this spectacularly beautiful place. The proprietors and staff of the inns, resorts, restaurants, spas, and other service-based venues really put on the charm, adding a down-home and friendly atmosphere to go along with generally well-appointed places. Whether in winter or other seasons, there is something luxurious in the region that will surely please the most discerning of tastes.
Luxury Vacation Ideas in Vail, Aspen, Telluride, Steamboat Springs and the Colorado Rockies
Luxury-Vacations
Allegria Spa at the Park Hyatt Beaver Creek Resort
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