Aspen

There is so much more to Aspen than world-renowned ski resorts decorated with snow-capped mountains, glistening alpine lakes, and scenic trails – because this winter playground is also a year-round destination that offers an abundance of outdoor recreation, culinary delights, and impressive arts and culture scene.

While biking, hiking, fishing, rafting, skiing, and snowboarding would typically occupy your to-do list in Aspen, there are other outdoor pursuits to satisfy even the most daring of thrill-seekers. The resort-town already sits at about 8,000 ft. in elevation – to conquer even higher altitudes, you can fly in tandem with a paragliding certified pilot. You get to go up to 18,000 ft. for a stunning bird’s eye view of Aspen real estate.

 

Rock climbers can also satiate their need for adventure while scaling Aspen’s massive walls of granite. Either take the Gold Butte Climbing area or the routes around the Independence Pass located in the east of Aspen. And if you want to savor panoramic views of the Elk Mountains, you can book an hour-long sunrise hot air balloon and start your day being spoilt with breath-taking scenery.

 

Not only is Aspen the home to the yearly food fest known as the FOOD & WINE Classic where celebrity chefs gather to treat guests to plenty of gourmet bites, but a plethora of sophisticated eats are also available at the many restaurants around town. Hailed as the “finest spot to wine, dine and unwind,” Element 47 in the Little Nell Hotel received its first Five-Star Restaurant Award in 2015.

 

Enjoy their seasonally-inspired dishes concocted from locally sourced ingredients, complemented by wine from the restaurant’s cellar that houses more than 20,000 bottles. And for a break from traditional sushi, indulge in an haute Japanese fare in Chef Nobu’s Matsuhisa restaurant. Located in a 120-year old Victorian house, this avant-garde restaurant serves creatively prepared spicy tuna rolls and Wagyu beef served alongside your choice of cocktail.

One of the world’s best contemporary art destinations, the 3,000 square meter Aspen Art Museum features exhibitions of paintings, drawings, sculptures, multimedia installations as well as immersive activities that engage its audiences. Theatre Aspen, on the other hand, raises curtains for outstanding plays every year.

 

And in between their shows in New York City, Russia, and Italy, the famed Aspen Santa Fe Ballet will entertain audiences with their contemporary performances. You can also catch live entertainment at the historic Wheeler Opera House or the Belly Up and get your fill of concerts, shows, and music festivals.

 

Shopping in Aspen is an adventure on its own with quaint shopping districts that could rival retail landmarks such as Rodeo Drive and Madison Avenue.

Whether you’re on a solo retreat or on a couple’s getaway staying in any of the stunning Aspen luxury homes, a relaxing spa treatment is a great way to peacefully spend the day after conquering the slopes. St. Regis Hotel’s Remède Spa offers a customized massage that promises relaxation and rejuvenation. Each massage will include a scalp treatment with essential oils, a paraffin foot wrap, as well as access to the oxygen lounge, plunge pools, steam room, and complimentary champagne and snacks.

 

The intimate Auberge Spa in Hotel Jerome is another place to luxuriously unwind. Spa treatments uphold traditional healing treatment practices that date back to ancient times in Roaring Fork Valley. Their “Revitalizing Organic Facial” can be just what you need, to restore the glow in your skin after being out in biting cold weather. The 80-minute massage accompanied by an organic honey-goji berry face mask can certainly be a refreshing alternative to a tiring day out.

 

Families looking for an action-packed day can go horseback riding to explore the beautiful backcountry of Aspen or take scenic hikes via the Hunter Creek Trail or Smuggler Mountain Road. Aspen Recreation Center is a one-stop shop for all things fun.

 

Rock climbing, ice skating, tennis, swimming, and kayaking lessons are just some of the activities that kids and the kids-at-heart can enjoy. And thanks to clowns, street performers, and face painters, strolling around town will never be a bore.

 

Whether renting or buying an Aspen home, Aspen real estate offers a mix of luxury condos, cottages, ranches, private estates, mansions, and ski homes that capture the town’s charm and sophistication –offering picturesque views of snowy mountains and landscapes, with dining, shopping and cultural amenities within easy reach.

 

For more information regarding Aspen homes for sale or to list your home with a premier Aspen real estate agent, contact Carrie Wells today via phone or email.