Aspen: A Winter Wonderland with a Food and Wine Festival *br

Nestled in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Aspen is a winter playground for ski enthusiasts and foodies alike. Known for its world-class skiing, breathtaking scenery, and renowned culinary scene, Aspen is the perfect destination for those looking for a winter getawa

Skiing in Aspen is a must-do experience, with four world-class mountains to choose from, including Aspen Mountain, Snowmass, Aspen Highlands, and Buttermilk. Each mountain offers a unique skiing experience, from challenging expert runs to gentle bunny slopes for beginners. And in June, visitors can enjoy the Food and Wine Classic, an annual event featuring top chefs and winemakers from around the world.

For those looking to take a break from skiing, nearby wineries offer a perfect escape. The West Elks AVA, located just 45 minutes from Aspen, is home to over a dozen wineries producing award-winning wines. Visitors can take a scenic drive through the vineyards and sample some of the best wines Colorado has to offer.

For those looking for a more tranquil experience, the monastery in Snowmass is a must-see destination. The Maroon Bells are also a must-see destination, providing a stunning backdrop for a day hike or snowshoeing adventure.

Aspen also offers a vibrant nightlife scene, with a variety of bars and nightclubs to choose from. Little Nell’s bar is a popular spot for après-ski drinks, while the Hotel Jerome bar offers a more upscale atmosphere. The Caribou Club is a popular nightclub where locals and visitors alike can dance the night away.

When it comes to dining, Aspen does not disappoint. For dinner, Matsuhisa Aspen offers exquisite Japanese cuisine, while the Element 47 restaurant at The Little Nell offers a fine-dining experience with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. For brunch, the Hotel Jerome offers a Sunday brunch buffet that is not to be missed. One of my favorite experiences is taking the horse drawn carriage or renting cross country skies  to enjoy amazing views and delicious food at the Pine Creek Cookhouse.  Another fun spot is Jimmy’s for a quick bite at the bar and experience a unique social hour.  If you have time, and are skiing highlands, go to Cloud Nine for the cocktail hour or the champagne party moment at the end of day.  If you make a luncheon reservation which is necessary it is a enjoyable place to experience the mountain and yummy food and celebratory atmosphere.  A dinner of dancing at the Caribou Club lets you keep the table if you book at dinner.  Ajax Taverna for lunch and to watch the skiers come down from the base of Aspen Mountain is another wonderful place to have a truly Aspen experience.  

To get around Aspen, the Roaring Fork Transportation Authority (RFTA) offers a bus service to all four ski mountains, as well as the bunny slopes at Buttermilk. The bus is a convenient and affordable way to get around, and day passes are available for a reasonable price.

In summary, Aspen is the perfect destination for ski enthusiasts, foodies, and wine lovers. With its breathtaking scenery, world-class skiing, and renowned culinary scene, Aspen is a winter wonderland that should be on everyone’s bucket list.