Aspen Hats – Shop Like a VIP for Authentic Cowboy Hats

A group of people poses with different stylish Aspen huts
Image Credit: Kemo Sabe Instagram

Unless you’ve been riding a horse through the wild west for the last year, you probably know that Aspen hats are the newest fashion trend

But not just any hats: cowboy hats, made popular by Kemo Sabe Aspen, where you can design a one-of-a-kind custom, luxury Stetson. 

WHY ARE HATS SUCH A SIGNIFICANT ASPECT OF ASPEN FASHION?

Fashion in the Roaring Fork Valley has always included hats as the must-have accessory. This is due to both historical legacy and modern function. Aspen came about as a mining town. Throughout the first half of the 20th century, it was considered standard for miners to always wear a hat when they left their homes. Throughout the 1930s, fedoras were the most common Aspen hats. However, they later went out of fashion as Aspenites started to prefer beanies and cowboy hats.

Hats are more than a fashion accessory, they’re a necessity. 

Aspen sits 8,000 feet above sea level. Since the town is closer to the sun, people get a lot more UV exposure. There is a year-round risk of sunburn, so it makes sense that residents would choose headgear that protects their skin. 

A cowboy hat is simply the best way to protect your face and neck from sun damage; it also helps that they are the icing on the cake for every outfit. Everybody knows that cowboy hats are cool, given that every celebrity in Aspen has been spotted wearing one. 

If you want to join the trend, here are the fashion secrets that you need to know: 

WHAT IS THE BEST HAT STORE IN ASPEN?

Clients purchased cowboy hats in Aspen
Image Credit: iam.taryn.itup Instagram

The answer is obvious: Kemo Sabe. It is a western-themed store in Aspen that sells high-end western hats and lets you personalize your custom hat. 

Celebrities like Rhianna, ASAP Rocky, Kim Kardashian, Kendall Jenner, Mariah Carey, Kyle Richards, Beyonce, and Kevin Costner have all been spotted shopping for western hats. 

What makes Kemo Sabe the best is the quality: all their products, from Stetsons to boots, belt buckles, and jewelry, are handcrafted. 

A lot of love goes into each accessory, which you can really feel when you put it on. The custom hats at Kemo Sabe Aspen are also popular as a luxury item. With all their products costing hundreds to thousands of dollars, everyone who buys something becomes part of an elite club. 

Wearing western gear in Aspen is a status symbol, indicating that you fit right into the opulent world of ski royalty

WHAT TYPES OF HATS ARE SOLD AT KEMO SABE?

As a Western gear store, Kemo Sabe sells cowboy hats – as well as boots, turquoise jewelry, and belt buckles to go with it. They also offer an extensive line of designer coats and bags.

Their hats are made from either beaver or rabbit felt. The most high-quality hats are 6X rabbit felt or 20X beaver felt. In hat making, the number of X’s on a hat indicates how much natural fur is in the product. Hats with more X’s – and more fur – are more durable and more authentic. 

The Aspen hat selection includes a few different options for shape, size, and finishing. 

Cowboy hats generally come in 3 different brim shapes: flat, cowboy curl, and scoped. 

While each shape will do a great job protecting your face from the sun, flat-brimmed hats generally look more feminine. Curled brims offer more of an authentic cowboy look, while scoped hats are a popular accessory among men. 

The hats are also accessorized with different styles of bands that make them pop. While feathers and leather bands are the most classic, beads and turquoise jewelry are the more fashion-forward choice.

WHAT IS IT LIKE TO SHOP AT KEMO SABE?

A celebrity is shopping for a hat at Kemo Sabe in Aspen

The products aren’t the only thing that makes this store special, it’s also the service. When you step into the doors of the unassuming shop in the center of town, you get to feel like a celebrity. 

The staff will cater to your every wish, whether you need help personalizing a hat or input on what style suits your face shape. 

People who have shopped there routinely report that the custom-made hats are worth every penny. 

The process of designing your own hat is simple: 

  1. Get measured by the expert staff to determine your hat size.
  2. Browse the pre-made custom hats to find a material, shape, and color that you like. The store’s color palette is very western, so you’ll likely be choosing between shades of brown, beige, muted orange, deep blue, and rustic red. 
  3. If you don’t see the color or shape that you want, you can request a hat be custom made for you. Kemo Sabe Aspen makes hats with different sized and shaped crowns that range from a soft W shape to a stiff V shape at the top. 
  4. Once you find a base that you like, you can add your own accessories, like feathers, leather bands, beads, gold chains, turquoise jewelry, buckles, custom stitching, and more. 
  5. Consider picking up a handmade matching belt buckle or boots to complete the look. 

OTHER ASPEN HAT SHOPS TO CHECK OUT

While Kemo Sabe is the most popular place to buy Aspen hats, it isn’t the only headgear store. In fact, Kemo Sabe is not for everyone, especially if you want a different style beyond western brimmed hats. 

NICK FOUQUET 

Entrance of the Nick Fouquet Store
Image Credit: Nick Fouquet Instagram

This store has the same level of quality as Kemo Sabe with more variety. In addition to hats, they also sell sweaters, pants, jackets, boat shoes, belts, and jewelry.

In a way, Nick Fouquet is the quintessential Aspen store: a place where everything is understated, but the price tag and the quality shines through to give the outfit a certain je nes se quois.

If you’re shopping for a new look, you have 5 choices in styles:

1. BEANIES

Cowboy hats might be the biggest spring, fall, and summer fashion, but when winter comes, everyone is back to beanies. 

The beanie is another Aspen headwear signature. They are a core part of ski style, whether you’re on the slopes or at a casual aprés-ski party. Unlike cowboy hats, they will keep your ears very warm and have the bonus of disguising a case of ski helmet hair.

2. BUCKET HATS

They combine the warmth of beanies with the sun protection of cowboy hats and add a street style vibe to any outfit. This style is a resurrected 90s fashion that has returned with a force. 

Whether you need a bucket hat to match your denim jacket, boho knit sweater, or plaid slacks, Nick Fouquet has options in nearly every color. 

3. CAPS

These are actually one of the most commonly sold out items in the store. 

Ball caps are like a national pastime, plus they are very popular among celebrities who are hiding from the paparazzi. Sometimes you don’t need to turn everything into an outfit. 

A Nick Fouquet cap is the thing to throw on when you’re about to go on an Aspen hike and don’t want a sunburned face. 

4. TRAPPERS

These are the fur-lined hats with ear flaps that you might wear doing a snowshoeing trip. While not as fashionable as beanies, they are the best hats for keeping your ears warm. 

Trappers were originally a 2010s trend that originated in New York during the chilly winters. However, the hats are an Aspen staple that will never go out of style. 

In fact, they’re one of the few accessories that goes flawlessly with a fur coat, a bomber jacket, and a vintage ski jumpsuit.

5. BRIMMED HATS

Clients bought a cowboy hat and cap in Aspen

Nick Fouquet offers a variety of Aspen hats, encompassing styles from traditional cowboy hats to beach-ready sun hats and contemporary fedoras.

While Kemo Sabe’s offerings are very classic, the hats at Nick Fouquet are more over the top. For example, an Aspen favorite has been the Priscilla hat, inspired by the Sofia Coppola movie, which features a lace veil and pre-made smoke marks. 

The store also stocks options in lavender, white, pink, black, leopard print, denim, and more. 

MAVERICK’S OF ASPEN

ALC guests just made a purchase at Maverick's of Aspen
Image Credit: Maverick’s of Aspen Facebook

Maverick’s is more of a boutique than a national brand. This is the place to go if you want a one-of-a-kind outfit that is as cozy as it is stylish. 

The cowboy hats at this store are a lot more flashy than those at Kemo Sabe or Nick Fouquet. 

They usually feature large feather pieces, thick bands of turquoise jewelry, lace brocades, and fabric flowers. Maverick’s also stocks fur pieces, diamond jewelry, and hand painted cowboy boots. 

When you get an outfit at Maverick’s, everyone you meet will be stopping you to ask where you got it. 

HOW TO GET A VIP SHOPPING EXPERIENCE FOR HATS IN ASPEN

When celebrities go shopping in Aspen, they get individual attention, personal styling, and access to clothes that aren’t officially on the shelves yet. 

However, you don’t need to be a movie star to experience Aspen like one. When you work with Aspen Luxury Concierge, we can open the door for you to have those A-lister experiences. Our concierges have connections with all the major stores in Aspen, including Kemo Sabe, Nick Fouquet, and Maverick’s. 

They can use those connections to get you styling appointments, personalized shopping experiences, and private store time. 

If you are ready to shop for Aspen hats like the elites, contact Aspen Luxury Concierge to begin a vacation consultation. 

WHAT IS THE HISTORY BEHIND COWBOY HATS?

Aspen owner Kemo Sabe is explaining the history of the hats

The cowboy hat dates back to 1865 when famous hat manufacturer from Philadelphia, John B. Stetson started manufacturing these rounded, brimmed hats. 

Early versions of the hats were made from the fur of beavers and rabbits, which made them durable. This style initially took off for their durability and use among ranchers, horseback riders, and other Western working professionals. Over time, the shape of the hat evolved: the brim was curved upwards to accommodate rope lassos. The top was redesigned to have a pinched shape, allowing for one handed removal. 

It was the function that made cowboy hats into the iconic fashion of the west. In addition to keeping the sun and elements off one’s face and neck, the top of the hat could be filled with water for someone’s horse to drink out of. 

ASPEN, COLORADO & THE COWBOY HAT

Aspen is primarily known as a ski town due to its world-class skiing, ski-centric cultural events like Wintersöl and Gay Ski Week, numerous hotels with slope access, and the annual X Games Aspen

However, Aspen was once known as a mining town. The federal Sherman Silver Act and the 2,350 pound silver nugget found in the Smuggler Mine kicked off Aspen’s mining economy. The town grew in population with mining at its center until Sherman was repealed. During the mining eras, fedoras were the quintessential Aspen, Colorado hat.

When the mining economy crashed, Aspenites turned to ranching to make their living. The ranching economy came with the influx of Western cowboy culture, including the popularity of cowboy hats and the opening of saloons. 

Now when modern day residents stroll into Kemo Sabe for custom-made Aspen hats, they’re tapping into a rich local history. However, it makes sense that today’s fashions would harken back to the old days. When people don cowboy gear, it gives them a chance to return to a simpler time

It may be too late to escape the advent of email, but wearing a cowboy hat is still a great way to cosplay as a hardy rancher with a simple life. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT ASPEN HAT STYLE

A model photographed inside a hat shop
Photo Credit: Kemo Sebe Instagram

DO YOU NEED AN APPOINTMENT AT KEMO SABE?

You do not need an appointment to design Aspen custom hats at Kemo Sabe. However, the store does have a bar area and can be rented out for events and parties. If you would like to host a bachelorette party, birthday bash, liquor tasting, or retirement party at Kemo Sabe, please contact Aspen Luxury Concierge to book the venue for you. 

WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN A HATTER AND A MILLINER?

A milliner is someone who makes hats for women, whereas a hatter is someone who makes hats for men. Both are mildly outdated terms because hats are normally unisex in this day and age. 

HOW SHOULD YOU CARE FOR A COWBOY HAT AFTER PURCHASE?

Whether you bought your hat at Kemo Sabe, Maverick’s of Aspen, or Nick Fouquet, you’ll need to take good care of it. Hats can become malformed if stored improperly. It is best to store it in a hat box that is specifically designed for that style of cowboy hats. It is also suitable to place your hat upon a coat stand or flat on a table. Do not set your hat down sideways for an extended period of time or else the brim can become bent. 

START YOUR ASPEN ADVENTURE TODAY!

Your vacation in Aspen, Colorado will never truly leave you, especially if you invest in some Kemo Sabe fashion to take with you. 

The shopping experience for premium Aspen hats is something you can only do here in the capital of western-chic fashion. Plan your trip with Aspen Luxury Concierge today

We’ll take care of accommodations, travel, transportation, and activities while you shop to your heart’s content!

Snwomass Village Colorado

Snowmass Village, Colorado – 7 Can’t-Miss Outdoor Activities

A serene lake nestled among majestic mountains and lush trees, reflecting the natural beauty of the landscape.

Everybody knows that Aspen and Snowmass Village, Colorado are the gems of the Rockies, like two diamonds on a million dollar toi et moi ring. Aspen is more well-known as a luxury destination. Snowmass offers the best-of both-worlds with Aspen-caliber restaurants, hotels, resorts, and golfing, but with lighter crowds and greater privacy.

WHAT MAKES SNOWMASS VILLAGE, COLORADO SPECIAL?

Snowmass is famous for being one of the largest ski resorts in Colorado with over 3,000 skiable acres and 4,000 feet of vertical climb. Multiple luxury hotels offer ski-in/ski-out access, allowing guests unparalleled mountain access. Snowmass Village also stands out from other mountain towns because of the sheer variety of things to do. Visitors to the Roaring Fork Valley can enjoy hot air balloon tours, the rodeo, mountain biking, the alpine coaster, and ziplining. 

Summer or winter. Rain or shine. Traveling solo or with the entire family. Snowmass keeps the adventure going from one season to the next, from world-class skiing to a range of outdoor activities that will test your fitness levels. Read on to find out which thrills are waiting for you!

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN YOU SKI AND SNOWBOARD AT SNOWMASS SKI AREA

A snowboarder performs an impressive aerial trick against a snowy backdrop in Snowmass Village Colorado.

The residents of the Roaring Fork Valley often describe Buttermilk as the learner mountain, Ajax as intermediate, and Highlands as the most challenging mountain; however, Snowmass Mountain ski resort continuously defies categorization. 

WHAT IS THE TERRAIN AND DIFFICULTY LIKE?

Snowmass Ski Area is known for being the perfect mountain for all skill levels, with something for everyone. However, the Assay Hill and Village Express lifts can sweep beginner skiers towards manageable, well-maintained green runs like Fanny Hill and Bridges. There is even a children’s race arena, surrounded by youth-sized beginner glades.

Locals and returning visitors have described the ski resort as the kind of place that grows with you. Once snow seekers graduate from the mellow green runs, they have their choice of the blue runs at Elk Camp and Big Burn. Any skiers or snowboarders up for a challenge should ascend to High Alpine, Sam’s Knob, Hanging Valley, or The Cirque. High Alpine is known for its glades, while Sam’s Knob is the place to go for moguls. The Cirque sits at the highest point on Snowmass Ski Area, offering views of the Maroon Bells. If you start at The Cirque, you can either ski along the peak to Hanging Valley or drop down the headwall. 

7 THINGS TO DO IN SNOWMASS VILLAGE IN THE SUMMER

Like Aspen, Snowmass Village, Colorado, isn’t just a ski town. There are plenty of things to do in all seasons. When the snow finally melts away to reveal wild flowers and twisting trails, the next adventure can begin. 

1. PRIVATE BIKE TOUR

Two individuals enjoy biking in a lush field, surrounded by stunning mountain scenery.

At the core of Snowmass culture is mountain biking, making it the perfect place to start learning the sport. 

During a mountain biking lesson, you can explore the extensive network of trails all around Snowmass. Some trails are bike in/bike out trails, which make for an excellent workout. Other trails are serviced by the gondola, so you can ride up the mountain, then bike down. Mountain biking is an ideal activity for all ages. Kids also love mountain biking for the rush and adventure. 

If mountain biking is not your thing, you may enjoy a road bike tour. Depending on your interests, your guide may take you on a mountain bike to notable locations all over Snowmass Mountain. This is a great way to get the best views and learn more about the history of the area. Your guide can also take you along the Rio Grande Trail, which is a cycling trail that stretches between Aspen and Glenwood Springs, passing Snowmass and Carbondale on the way. 

2. HOT AIR BALLOON EXPERIENCE

A vibrant scene of numerous hot air balloons soaring above a picturesque hillside landscape.

No matter how high the gondolas take you, nothing compares to the view of Snowmass from a hot air balloon. If you’re familiar with popular events in Aspen-Snowmass, you probably already know about the Hot Air Balloon Festival that takes place at the end of September each year. While other visitors can only watch during the festival, Aspen Luxury Concierge clients have the opportunity to participate year-round.

ALC has connections to several experienced ballooners, allowing our clients to go on unforgettable balloon tours. You’ll get the best seat in the house: drifting calmly along, warmed by the balloon’s burners. Balloon tours are dependent on the local weather. Balloons are only able to launch in the early morning due to wind patterns. Please contact Aspen Luxury Concierge for more information about booking a balloon tour. 

3. GUIDED HIKING TOUR

A woman hiking in a tranquil forest, enjoying nature's beauty and peace in Snowmass Village Colorado

Stretching out from Snowmass Village, Colorado, are a vast network of hiking trails. The Maroon Bells Scenic Loop is one of the easiest and most popular trails for visitors to the area. On the other end of the spectrum is the extremely challenging 16-mile Capitol Peak climb for advanced moutaineers. Most hikers want something in between those two extremes. The team at Aspen Luxury Concierge recommends that visitors do guided hikes. When you hike with a guide, they can tailor the experience to your emotional energy, physical needs, and personal goals. Your guide can also talk you through the history of the region and the local fauna. 

4. PRIVATE HORSEBACK RIDING ADVENTURE

Two riders on horseback traverse a scenic mountain trail, surrounded by stunning peaks and greenery.

Horseback riding is a great alternative activity to mountain biking and hiking. You can still take in the views, just at a more relaxed speed with less physicality. This activity is especially popular among families with small children and adults traveling with their aging parents. The best time to book a horseback ride tour is in the fall when the leaves change color. Leaf peeping season typically begins at the end of September and continues into the first week of October

5. ACTIVITIES AT THE TOP OF ELK CAMP GONDOLA

A picturesque sunset view of mountains with a ski lift silhouetted against the sky.
Photo Credit: gosnowmass.com

When you ride the gondola up the mountain, Snowmass Village, Colorado, melts into the distance. The cars look like ants and the buildings seem doll-sized when you’re so high above them. The views of the valley will take your breath away and, if you’re lucky, you may see an elk or two from your bird’s eye view.

However, the adventure doesn’t end when you step off the gondola. At the top of Elk Camp Gondola is a child’s paradise complete with:

  • An alpine coaster
  • Treeline Challenge Course 
  • A climbing wall
  • A disc golf course
  • Ziplining 
  • Trout fishing (although experienced anglers might prefer Aspen fly fishing)

6. THURSDAY NIGHT CONCERTS ON FANNY HILL

A vibrant scene from the Snowmass Music Festival, showcasing musicians performing outdoors amidst a festive crowd.
Photo Credit: Limelighthotel – Instagram

The best part about summer coming to Aspen Snowmass isn’t the beautiful weather, it’s the Aspen Jazz Festival concert season. From mid-June until the end of August, Aspen and Snowmass get filled with jazz music from sunup to sunset. On Thursday nights, musicians take over Fanny Hill to provide free concerts under the stars. Visitors are invited to bring a picnic or get takeout to support the local businesses. 

For more information about times, transportation, and lineup for Jazz Aspen Snowmass, please contact Aspen Luxury Concierge.

7. SNOWMASS RODEO

A woman on horseback holds an American flag, showcasing her spirit in a beautiful landscape.
Photo Credit: Snowmass Rodeo Instagram

Once upon a time, Colorado was the Wild West and Snowmass Village was a working ranch community. If you’ve ever wanted to harken back to simpler days, the Snowmass Rodeo brings the “wild” back to the “West.” Locals and visitors alike love the rodeo – in fact, it sells out nearly every year, so be sure to book your tickets through ALC before it’s too late. The rodeo is a 10 night extravaganza, every Wednesday night from mid-June to mid-August. Events include barrel racing, roping, bull riding, and more! After the festivities, you may be tempted to do a little shopping in Aspen for your own western gear at Kemo Sabe. 

WHAT ARE THE BEST HOTELS IN SNOWMASS VILLAGE, COLORADO?

There are 2 main luxury hotels near Snowmass Ski Area: Viceroy and Limelight. Both hotels offer luxury-seeking visitors everything that could possibly want in their accommodations. Hotels offer privacy, high quality service, easy access to both the slopes and the village, amenities like an on-site spa, and numerous dining options. 

16 OUTSTANDING AMENITIES AT VICEROY SNOWMASS

The Viceroy is the gold standard for modern, luxury hotels. The large alpine-style structure looks out over Snowmass Ski Area. From the moment guests hand off their vehicle to the valet, the VIP service begins.

When you stay at the Viceroy, these are the amenities that you can enjoy: 

  1. Valet parking and concierge services
  2. Ski-in/ski-out access to Snowmass
  3. Pet friendly 
  4. Courtesy shuttle to Aspen and the Pitkin County airport
  5. E-bike rental for cruising around Snowmass Village
  6. Private meeting rooms available
  7. Fitness center
  8. 7,000 square foot spa that offers massages, facials, and wraps
  9. Year-round heated pool and multiple hot tubs
  10. The Lounge has grab-and-go meals during the day and cocktail fare at night
  11. The Nest is al fresco dining by the pool, serving healthy lunch items
  12. Toro serves contemporary Latin food in a romantic environment
  13. In-room dining available
  14. Ski valet and gear rental
  15. Childcare services
  16. Exclusive guest-only events both on-site and all over Snowmass

PROS AND PERKS OF STAYING AT LIMELIGHT HOTEL SNOWMASS

A large apartment building with balconies, set against a backdrop of majestic mountains in Snowmass Village Colorado
Photo Credit: Limelight Hotel Instagram

In many ways, Limelight and the Viceroy are very similar. They are the same caliber of hotels that cater to high-income visitors. Whereas the Viceroy is better known as a family destination, the Limelight is where the adventurers make basecamp. 

WINTER ADVENTURES

Conveniently located in Base Village, Limelight has ski-in/ski-out access to the slopes. While the cost of your stay will include a small fee for resort access, the proximity is worth every penny. In fact, the hotel offers slope-side gear storage for a seamless start to your ski day. Limelight also runs shuttles to Ajax, Highlands, and Buttermilk Mountain to expand your ski opportunities. If you’re not a skier, there are still plenty of things to do in the winter months. Families with children may enjoy ice skating on the rink in the plaza. You could also go shopping in Base Village, relax in one of the hot tubs, or hang out in The Lounge. 

SUMMER ADVENTURES

In the summer, guests have easy access to Elk Mountain camp area, allowing them to hit the trails on foot, on mountain bikes, or on horseback. If the weather doesn’t allow for an outdoor workout, you can hit the fitness center, ascend the 54-foot indoor climbing wall, or enjoy the heated pool. 

Compared to the Viceroy, Limelight isn’t the best hotel for foodies. It only has one restaurant on the premises, which is The Lounge. Visitors routinely report that The Lounge serves excellent breakfast; however, they recommend hitting Snowmass Village for lunch and dinner, which is just steps from the Limelight’s front door. The Lounge does have frequent mini-concerts featuring local rock, jazz, and folk bands.

ADDITIONAL OPTIONS FOR LUXURY ACCOMMODATIONS NEAR SNOWMASS VILLAGE, COLORADO

A cozy room featuring a couch and framed pictures adorning the walls, creating a warm atmosphere.

Aspen Luxury Concierge caters to clients who expect the absolute best when they travel. While glamorous, the Viceroy and Limelight are not every traveler’s cup of tea. One option is for visitors to stay at one of the Aspen luxury hotels, such as The Little Nell or St. Regis. Since Aspen is only 8 minutes from Snowmass, visitors can experience the best parts of both towns. 

If you are traveling with a group, your ALC concierge may recommend a vacation rental. Luxury vacation rentals range from condo to an entire villa with every size of home in between. A vacation rental can be more desirable than a hotel due to the size, privacy, and the possibility of special amenities, like a personal chef. 

The key to an amazing adventure is to choose the perfect accommodations. When you plan your trip to Aspen Snowmass with ALC, you get seamless bookings and unparalleled quality. Contact Aspen Luxury Concierge today for all your vacation needs!

THE 5 BEST SNOWMASS VILLAGE, COLORADO RESTAURANTS

Nighttime view of an outdoor restaurant, creating a cozy atmosphere.
Photo Credit: The Edge Restaurant Instagram

If you ask any local or part-time Aspenite where to get dinner in Snowmass, they’ll probably all give you the same 5 recommendations:

  1. The Edge – A restaurant that combines a French bistro with a German bierhaus and a Swiss chalet. Cozy and intimate, you’ll love the rich flavors of imported cheeses, homemade sausages, and traditional schnitzel.
  2. Il Poggio – Hot, cheesy Italian food is just what the doctor ordered after a long day on the slopes. Everyone loves Il Poggio’s 4-course meal service, complete with dark chocolate biscotti and mussels from Prince Edward Island.
  3. The Stew Pot – Although far less grand than other Base Village dining options, The Stew Pot is part of the soul of Snowmass. Since 1972, The Stew Pot has cooked up casual sandwiches, soup, stews, and salads. When you dine there, you can either get takeout and be on your way to the next adventure or sit and chat with the locals.
  4. Sam’s Smokehouse – Located at 10,620 feet, and only open during ski season, you’ll have to take the ski lift up Snowmass Mountain to get there. Sam’s maintains an elegant atmosphere, complete with the option for guests to shed their ski boots in favor of slippers. All the pasta is made daily in-house. ALC recommends trying Sam’s signature cocktail, the negroni spritz.
  5. Kenichi – No ski town is complete without a local sushi joint. In addition to serving sushi, Kenichi Snowmass also has pan seared duck breast, wagyu steak, and otoro serrano. 

EXPERIENCE THE BEST OF WHAT SNOWMASS HAS TO OFFER!

Although Snowmass is a little more laid back than Aspen, it can still be hard to land a reservation or tickets if you’re booking all by yourself. This is why so many Snowmass Village visitors choose to work with Aspen Luxury Concierge. As the premiere concierge service that caters to luxury-seeking clients, ALC has the connections to help anyone access unique, bespoke experiences in Snowmass. 

When you plan your trip with the ALC team, get seamless booking with a single point of contact. Schedule a consultation with an ALC concierge today to start planning your trip to Snowmass Village, Colorado. 

Aspen Vacation Homes

Aspen Vacation Homes – 3 Options for Luxury Accommodations

Inside the luxury Aspen vacation homes with aesthetic interior design and overlooking view of mountain

Everything in Aspen, Colorado, is luxurious and over-the-top; Aspen vacation homes are no different. Visitors in Aspen have their choice of sprawling villas, ski in/ski out chalets on the mountain, city-style condos, and beautiful estates for accommodations. 

WHY IS ASPEN A POPULAR VACATION DESTINATION FOR THE 1%?

Aspen attracts the top 1% of global travelers because the town has the unique combination of world-class skiing, Michelin star restaurants, exclusive nightlife, New York-caliber designer shopping, and luxurious vacation rentals. Elite visitors also enjoy the privacy of Aspen, where they can go about their business without encountering the paparazzi. As a luxury vacation destination, Aspen is unparalleled in the quality of service and discretion provided by the local concierge services.

The luxe world of celebrities in Aspen is not only for the top 1%. When you work with Aspen Luxury Concierge to plan your trip, you too can experience the finest things this town has to offer. The first step in planning an unforgettable luxury trip is choosing the perfect accommodations from the selection of Aspen vacation homes. 

3 OPTIONS FOR ACCOMMODATIONS IN ASPEN, COLORADO

There is no shortage of vacation rentals in Aspen. When you plan your trip with ALC, the first step is to choose what type of vacation home you would like to stay in. In general, you have 3 options for possible rentals including: 

1. A CHALET ON THE MOUNTAIN 

The exterior view of a luxury chalet in Aspen

Ski enthusiasts usually want to be as close to the slopes as possible. Nearly every ski resort in Aspen has a few exclusive ski in/ski out chalets that are available to rent. These homes range from cozy and intimate to sprawling 5+ bedroom manors. 

The amenities will vary depending on the property, but most chalets for rent will have: 

  • Large fireplaces in multiple rooms
  • Modern, fully functional kitchens with brand new appliances
  • Storage specially designed for skis, snowboards, and snowshoes
  • An indoor hot tub or sauna
  • Ski in/ski out access
  • Winter sports gear that guests can use (such as snowmobiles, snowshoes, or sleds)

PROS AND CONS OF STAYING IN A CHALET

The main benefit of renting a chalet for your vacation is the atmosphere. Nothing says winter wonderland quite like cozying up by the fire with a mug of gourmet hot chocolate. When the snow begins to flutter down and the lights of Aspen glitter in the distance, you’ll know that you picked the right rental. 

The only downside of choosing to stay in a chalet is transportation and accessibility. Some chalets in Aspen are not easily accessible by roads. This can be a challenge if you are not used to driving in snow or if some members of your party are beginner skiers. However, if necessary, your ALC concierge can hire private transportation, stock your rental’s kitchen, run errands for you, and schedule skiing lessons. 

If you are interested in experiencing a winter wonderland this holiday season, contact Aspen Luxury Concierge today!

2. A LUXURY CONDO DOWNTOWN

A luxury condo downtown, in Aspen

A chalet is the best option for visitors who want to spend most of their time skiing. A condo is ideal for people who want to do some shopping, check out Aspen nightlife, and enjoy all that downtown Aspen has to offer. Condo-sized Aspen vacation homes are best for intimate vacations, consisting of you and your beloved or your closest friends. 

Although the amenities in Aspen condos will vary by location, most condos have:

  • Electric fireplaces
  • Private parking with plug ins for electric vehicles 
  • Easy access to the gondolas and ski shuttle (usually a 5-8 minute walk depending on location)
  • Storage area for skis, snowboards, bikes, and other athletic gear
  • In-unit laundry
  • Chef’s kitchen
  • Jacuzzis
  • Queen or king-sized ergonomic beds

Visitors can enjoy staying in a rented condo during their trip to Aspen in both the winter and summer months. The proximity of most condos to both the downtown area and the ski resorts provides you with the opportunity to do everything. 

3. MODERN & HISTORIC VILLAS IN ASPEN, COLORADO

A beautiful and luxury villa in Aspen, Coloroado

If you really want to travel like a celebrity, Aspen vacation homes are the way to do it. Villas are the year-round most popular accommodation for visitors who want privacy and quality service. Many villas come with unique amenities like full-time professional housekeeping rivaling that of the local luxury hotels and built-in activities.

One of the most famous Aspen home rentals for vacations is known as Dunbar Ranch and is owned by Kevin Costner. The 160-acre private property costs over $30k a night to rent out, but the price tag is absolutely worth it. In the winter, guests can enjoy the tubing track, take a dog sled ride, ice skate at the private rink, or go skiing at Aspen Mountain, which is about 10 minutes away from the property. During the summer, guests can fish, paddleboard, and kayak on the private lake. On dry land, you can ride horses, hike around the property, take an archery lesson, or hit balls on the private baseball diamond. 

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF RENTING A VILLA?

There are also many options for house rentals on Red Mountain, which is locally known as “Billionaire’s Mountain.” Most of these properties were built with nature in mind. Properties often feature floor-to-ceiling windows to let in the alpine sun and panoramic views. As much as possible, these rentals were constructed with local, reclaimed wood to maintain the feeling of being in the forest. 

There are a few benefits to staying in a villa over renting a condo or chalet: 

  • Villas have on-location activities, so you don’t have to travel too far to find something to do
  • Whereas chalets are best for winter travel, villas are the ideal accommodation for both summer and winter trips
  • Some villas come with private chefs, transportation services, or cars that you can utilize
  • A villa is the best accommodation option for large groups. Unlike in a luxury hotel, everyone stays together and can enjoy private communal areas
  • When you stay in a villa, it feels more like home. This is why ALC recommends renting a villa for longer vacations
  • Most villas sit on a large property, which gives you plenty of privacy
  • The villas on Red Mountain have unbeatable mountain views 

Please note that the specific properties mentioned above may or may not be available to rent during your trip. Please contact Aspen Luxury Concierge for available accommodations and villa options

5 THINGS TO CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING YOUR ACCOMMODATIONS 

ALC customers chose their holiday homes following the team's advice

Different Aspen vacation homes offer different things for visitors. An otherwise great trip can be ruined with the wrong accommodations. Here are 5 things to consider when choosing between different house rentals: 

1. LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION 

Real estate agents are right: location is key. There are a lot of things that can be adjusted and arranged during your trip, like your airport transportation or your itinerary. However, once your concierge books your rental, that can be much harder to change. When you choose your rental, think about where you want to be in Aspen or Snowmass. Do you want a view of the mountains? Do you want easy ski access? Would you rather be in the center of the action in downtown Aspen? These are all preferences to discuss with your ALC concierge when you start planning your trip. 

2. INTENDED ACTIVITIES 

The location and style of your rental should be harmonious with your itinerary. For example, if you are having an Aspen bachelorette party, you may prefer to rent one of the private homes near downtown Aspen. If you are here to hike and ski the Highland Bowl, then ski in/ski out access to Highlands ski resort is vital. Anyone traveling with children will likely want family-friendly accommodations with children’s amenities. Families often opt to rent a villa for their vacation because of the ample activities on the properties. While most villas in Aspen are not quite as big as Dunbar Ranch, there is still plenty to do in your home-away-from-home.

3. LIFESTYLE

ALC guests are having a luxury picnic

Visitors come to Aspen to experience that luxurious alpine lifestyle. Accommodations are a huge part of that experience. When A-listers visit Aspen, they don’t stay just anywhere, they stay at the biggest, most beautiful Aspen vacation homes with the best amenities. Just look at the 20,000 square foot house with a pool and bowling alley where the Jenners once spent Christmas. If you want to travel like the 1%, it starts with the rental. 

However, most people are not able to curate that lifestyle by themselves. Wealthy travelers utilize concierge services for their trips and daily lives, which is why you should too. 

Aspen Luxury Concierge is a local service that connects our clients to the luxury lifestyle of their dreams. Our team has the experience and access to get you the best of the best. See how the other half travels by scheduling a trip consultation with ALC

4. NUMBER OF PEOPLE IN YOUR PARTY

Aspen home rentals for vacations range in size from 2 bedroom properties to 20+ bedroom properties. The number of guests in your party should determine the size of your rental. If you and your beloved are traveling alone, you may opt for a smaller, more intimate rental. If you are arranging a trip for your entire extended family or for a wedding party, you’ll need more rooms. Of course, certain types of rentals work well for different group sizes. Condos are generally a little smaller, so they are best for intimate gatherings. Rental chalets are available in a few different sizes, and villas are generally best for large groups who want privacy. 

5. THE AMENITIES YOU DESIRE

The appeal of Aspen vacation homes is that they have unique amenities that can go above and beyond that of a hotel. A big selling point for chalets is that they can have ski in/ski out slope access. On the other hand, villas frequently come with their own activities in the form of on-property swimming pools, bowling alleys, theaters, and hiking areas on the property. It all comes down to what you want out of your rental. Our team can arrange any additional experiences or amenities you’d like for your stay. Your concierge can attend to all your needs during your stay and can even hire additional staff to make your stay more comfortable. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VACATIONING IN ASPEN, COLORADO 

One of the luxury and elegant Aspen vacation homes perfect for family stay

If you have never visited Aspen before, you may have some questions about our beautiful, little mountain town. Here are some commonly asked questions and answers to help you plan your trip. 

WHAT IS THE BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT ASPEN?

Aspen doesn’t really have an offseason. While Aspen is generally known as a winter destination for skiing, any time of the year is a great time to visit. In the summer, Aspen’s moderate temperatures make for great hiking, fly fishing, horseback riding, golfing, and more. The fall is the most beautiful time of year because that’s when the trees change color. The spring offers a little bit of everything: everyone enjoys spring skiing, but the moderate temperatures also lend themselves to all kinds of other outdoor activities. 

WHAT IS THE EASIEST WAY TO GET TO ASPEN FROM OUT OF STATE?

You have 3 options for getting to the Roaring Fork Valley: 

  1. Fly commercial into the Pitkin County airport (also known as ASE and Sardy Field). Aspen is about 10 minutes away from the airport. For airport transportation, you can take a shuttle, rent a car, or have your concierge arrange for a private driver. 
  2. Charter a private jet to Aspen. Jets can either land at ASE or one of the private airfields near Aspen. 
  3. Fly into DIA, then travel the 4 hours to Aspen. This option is generally not preferred, but some visitors want to see Denver or visit family before heading to Aspen. 

WHAT MAKES ASPEN VACATION HOMES UNIQUE?

In Aspen, the views and architectural beauty are heads above the architecture in other towns. Since Aspenites value the local natural resources, those materials are incorporated into newly built homes. The result is properties that enhance the surrounding natural beauty and fit the alpine aesthetic. In addition to the beauty of the vacation rentals, Aspen residents and visitors value service, so unparalleled services are at the center of the rental experience. This means that many vacation rentals come with a concierge service or private chef. However, if these amenities are not included in your rental, Aspen Luxury Concierge can hire staff for your stay and tend to all your additional needs. 

VACATION LIKE AN A-LISTER WITH ALC!

Many of the vacation homes in Aspen are not available to the average traveler. If you want the best accommodations, you have to work with the best. Aspen Luxury Concierge has connections to the most sought after vacation rentals in the area. Our team is able to get you access to the life of the 1% through quality service. Schedule a consultation with an ALC concierge to find out how we can elevate your travels.