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LUXE MOUNTAIN TRAVELS FOR ALL SEASONS

FROM THE WEST COAST APRS SKI TO THE EAST COASTS ADIRONDACKS

by Norah Lawlor

ASPEN
Ski slopes in winter, hiking and water sports in summer, plus a yearround Hollywood scene a few thoughts that come to mind when describing Aspen, Colorado. Avoid getting lost amongst the tourist traps, this is your guide to a pampered, five-star journey through this Rocky Mountain hotspot.

WHERE TO STAY
Hotel Jerome For over a century, Hotel Jerome has set the standard, embracing the towns mountain spirit and is regarded as the premier Aspen hotel. The unique 94 grand guestrooms and suites are home-away-from-homeeach is individually decorated with special luxurious touches such as down comforters, feather pillows, 300-thread-count linens and bathrooms featuring oversized bathtubs, separate shower and double-basin marble vanities. Hotel Jeromes services include twice-daily maid service, nightly turn-down service and complimentary local transportation in chauffeur-driven luxury SUVs. Hotel Jeromes dining options embrace Aspens reputation as a foodie haven. From its Garden Terrace to the nightlife crowd-favorite J-Bar (frequented by the likes of Jack Nicholson, Elle Macpherson and Johnny Depp), to the relaxed Library, a deep and abiding respect for the environment is reflected in locallyinspired menus, sustainable cuisine, and use of seasonal, organic ingredients. Hotel Jerome , 330 East Main Street, Aspen, (877) 412-ROCK, www.hoteljerome.rockresorts.com

The Innsbruck Hospitality meets charm for the low-key yet luxury hotel experience at The Innsbruck. Situated in downtown Aspen within walking distance from the slopes, The Innsbruck Aspen offers the perfect blend of modern comfort and mountain elegance. The Innsbruck has 17 superbly-finished guest residencesindulge in one of ten two-bedroom with three baths or seven one-bedroom residences. Each guestroom evokes a mountain fairy-tale, as each is chicly decorated with both style and comfort in mind. The rooms even include Jacuzzi tubs and steam showersperfect for an evening of relaxation. The Innsbruck, 233 W. Main Street, Aspen, 866-925-2980, www.theinnsbruck.com

Aspen, ColorAdo

Social Life, vol. V II issue 3

The InnsbruCk

WHERE TO INDULGE
The Caribou Club Notable members range from actor Gerard Butler to former President Bill Clinton. This private clubs reputation is matched only by the spectacular fare. Guests come for dinner and stay for the dancing til dawn! When owner and prominent fine art aficionado Harley Baldwin passed, his partner Richard Edwards along with Billy Stolz and Louis Velasquez took over operations at The Caribou Club ensuring it remains one of the hottest scenes in Aspen. The Caribou Club, 411 East Hopkins Avenue, Aspen, (970) 925-2929, www.caribouclub.com Matsuhisa Theres no other name in the sushi world than Nobu. Featuring a sleek dining room with rich-colored woods and warm lighting, Matsuhisa serves up truly innovative Japanese cuisine. Signature dishes such as the Toro Tartar with caviar and Kobe Tataki Sashimi make advanced reservations a priority. Matsuhisa, 303 E. Main St., Aspen, (970) 544-6628, www.matsuhisaaspen.com Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro Situated atop Aspen Highlands ski area, visit Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro for a scenic dining experience. The seasonal menu changes daily, featuring Rocky Mountain delicacies including Colorado lamb, venison, elk and trout. In the evenings, the romantic dining room is lit with candles and a cozy fireplace illuminates the room. Cloud Nine Alpine Bistro, Aspen Highlands Top of the Cloud Nine lift 76 Boomerang Road, Aspen, (970) 544-3063, www.aspensnowmass.com

Elkhorn Village Condominiums A luxurious way of experiencing the small town feel of Sun Valley, Elkhorn Village Condominiums offers travelers a full-amenities stay. Guests can indulge in summertime golf, tennis, swimming, hot tub and sauna facilities. Elkhorn Village Condominiums, 200 West River St. Ketchum, ID, 1-800-371-9180

WHERE TO INDULGE
Vintage Restaurant Owner of Vintage, Jeff Keys, is proud of the quaint cabin which is casual and intimate, mirrored by a menu which is both original and unpretentious, offering eclectic fare including Rock Shrimp Tamales and Crispy Skin Roast Duckling. Vintage Restaurant, 231 N. Leadville Ave, Ketchum, ID. 208-726-9595 Michels Christiania Michels Christiania is richly decorated with history. One table named after author Ernest Hemingway who often frequented the restaurant. Chef Michel Rudigoz serves up elegant French cuisine using the best local fare such as Idaho potatoes and fresh trout. For a more intimate dining experience, visit the Chamonix Room. Michels Christiania, 303 Walnut Avenue, Ketchum, ID, 208-726-3388

THE ADIRONDACK MOUNTAINS

The Point Resort For New Yorkers looking for a rustic weekend getaway without the journey out west, The Point Resort is the answer offering visitors the opulence of an authentic Relaix & Chteau experience while maintaining the integrity of the secluded wilderness. Wintertime draws guests looking to enjoy the snow-covered landscape and frozen lake, skiing, ice skating and snow barbecues. In the warmer months, the Adirondacks beckon guests seeking to explore the recreational paradisefrom the shimmering lakes and cascading streams to the vast forest life and soaring mountains. The Point Resort features Adirondack-inspired luxury accommodations boasting 11 distinctive guest quarters that are spread among four original buildings. All contain a mixture of antiques and Adirondack furniture with a cozy sitting area facing a fireplace made of chiseled stone. Each room also offers stunning views of Lake Saranac. Enjoy breakfast-in-bed or overlooking the lake. Executive Chef Marc Levy and his international team plan menus a week in advance, taking into account dietary restrictions of each guest. Setting The Point apart is the nightly room rates, allinclusive for two people with carte blanche use of sports equipment and facilities, as well as three meals, afternoon tea, unlimited wine, liquor and liqueurs and a staff on call 24 hours a day. The Point Resort, 222 Beaverwood Rd, Saranac Lake, NY 800-255-3530, www.thepointresort.com

elkhorn VIllAge CondomInIums

SUN VALLEY
Every July since 1983 business leaders and media moguls such as Bill Gates, Warren Buffett, Rupert Murdoch and Mark Zuckerberg gather at The Allen & Company Sun Valley Conference, shining light on this quaint, resort town. Internationally-renowned for its world-class summer and winter activities, Sun Valley (also known as the Ketchum area) is a charming, Old World destination ideal for a romantic escape or family-time. The best of both worlds, Sun Valley offers the perfect blend of a slower-pace life plus the great outdoors.

WHERE TO RETREAT
The Sun Valley Lodge For a charming, mountain resort experience, check into the Sun Valley Lodge, fondly referred to as the American Shangri-La. Nestled in the village, relax and unwind in one of the resorts chic condos or cozy cottages. The resort offers six different cottages ranging from 2-to-5 bedrooms, boasting features such as wood-burning fireplace, spacious living area, marble kitchen and Jacuzzi. The Sun Valley Lodge, 1 Sun Valley Road, Sun Valley, ID 1-800-786-8259, www.sunvalley.com

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